<p>I'm planning to study architecture. I have to decide between 2 schools, U of Minn and U of IL at Chicago(UIC). I want to know which school has the better architecture program. And also which city has more job opportunities for architects. I live in the Chicago suburbs so it would be cheaper for me to go to UIC.</p>
<p>UIC is a great program but Minnesota is very, very well regarded in the architecture profession. The only thing is that I know that Minnesota’s undergrad program leads to a pre-professional degree. I’m not sure about UIC’s. That’s something to consider because you’re looking for an additional 2 years of school if you want to become licensed if you go to Minnesota. Again, I don’t know anything about UIC’s program.</p>
<p>U of Minn has a great reputation. UIC has new leadership and high energy faculty are typically practicing architects in Chicago. This presents a great opportunity for potential internships.</p>
<p>I had this exact question a few months ago, but got no replies. Eventually, I decided on UMinn for my own reasons. Can anyone else tell me more about the prestige of MN? Honestly, I didn’t think it was very well regarded.</p>
<p>I think it comes down to being in Minn or Chicago.</p>
<p>At UIC you’ll have an opportunity to network with numerous Chicago architects. Many of the faculty are practicing architects in the city. If you ultimately want to work in Chicago, then UIC would be a great option.</p>
<p>Let us know what you decide.</p>
<p>Minnesota is very well regarded with a long tradition of leaders. I mean, Ralph Rapson, for whom their building was named and their founding (?) dean, passed away, he was featured in the New York Times. </p>
<p>Minnesota is very well respected for their leadership in sustainability and many of the leaders at top firms have hailed from Minnesota. Dean Fisher is also very well connected as the former editor-in-chief of Progressive Architecture magazine and is the current president of the Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture. Sure, it’s not the flashiest of schools, but it is a well respected school with a large alumni base. And you’ll be studying in a Steven Holl building which is cool in its own right.</p>