Southern California Institute of Architecture (SCI-Arc)
Pratt Institute
University of Southern California (USC)
Tulane University
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
Temple University
University of Oregon
Cranbrook Academy of Art
New York Institute of Technology (NYIT)
Kansas State University
Top Masters Program vs Affordable Masters Program
I'm applying to M. Arch I programs, weighing the options. The idea of going to a top school and having so many doors open to me upon graduation is very attractive. It also seems like they would teach the theory and design courses better. However, I don't know if it's worth the cost.
If I go to a lesser known/affordable school, am I destined to be a CAD monkey and remain in a stagnant position for the rest of my life? Will I ever be able to do management or design work?
There are plenty of grads from top schools who are cad monkeys, so... really, there is little difference. At least with the cheaper school you'll be able to afford good beer.
Some of the best schools happen to be public universities with relatively affordable tuition, especially if you're applying as an in-state resident. For example, the University of Cincinnati (my alma mater) has a very strong program, and it's also one of the most affordable out there.
Also, some of the nominally expensive schools may offer scholarships and/or tuition waivers that make them competitive with the public universities. You won't know until you apply and get accepted.
My advice: Do more research, and be wary of knee-jerk assumptions... Especially those spouted by the internet peanut gallery. Apply to a variety of schools ranging from your local public university to your top-choice dream school. If you only get accepted to the former, them your choice will have been for you and this becomes a moot discussion.
do the top always. Simple.
Definitely worth the extra spondullies for that theory and design stuff.
I'm truly sadden to know that some firms ignore talent just to do favors.
If you can afford attending a top architecture school by all means go for it. The prestige of the school will give you an advantage when you start your professional career.
On the other hand, I would suggest attending one that focuses on design and new technologies. This way you can have the opportunity to explore your design limits. The technical can be learned once you start working.
***just an opinion***
Your student debt when you graduate from whichever program may be a factor in choosing your initial job. Thus the less amount of debt could possibly give you more freedom in firm selection, and you may actually be able to choose a smaller, more design driven firm, that offers less salary.
In the end it all depends on how you respond to the program you decide to go to.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3UEwbRWFZVc - After going to grad school, I find this talk to be even more accurate
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