I think Syracuse has historically had a much better reputation overall than USC, maybe that is just my bias from being closer to the area. Since the switch to the latest dean several years back, it has gravitated a little more on the theoretical than building side, but still provides a stronger sense of design vs as you mentioned, the more hyper conceptual or computer animations world of USC. You also have an opportunity to study abroad for a semester with Syracuse.

I've heard rumors of changes with SU's study abroad programs.  If you are keen on one in particular follow-up on whether or not it will be offered when you would be eligible for it. 

Thanks for the responses! 

@burningman: Yeah, judging from the student work I have been able to track down via USC's website and graduate portfolios on Issuu, the graduate program at USC seems to lean heavily on the conceptual side. However, they have brought in a number of forward-thinking professionals with conceptual, technologically challenging work which I assume is to reinforce how it is possible to transition the conceptual to the built. Further, I think this can be buttressed by the certificates available in areas such as Building Sciences. As yourself, I have the impression that Syracuse has a much better reputation overall and it is still where I am gravitating towards. The city of Syracuse seems like one of those, "what you make of it," locations but the facilities alone at Slocum Hall are phenomenal.

@mini: Thank you for the feedback! During the "open house" the school went over all of the study abroad programs available. Currently, in what would be Fall of my 2nd year (3rd year without advanced standing), they give you an option of a semester - or more - at campuses they have in Florence, London, and NYC. Also, they have many other opportunities available through independent studies and summer programs. 

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I've worked with several Syracuse grads and they were very, very good. Well- rounded, smart. The people from there with whom I worked graduated 5-25 years ago. Don't know what it's lime at the moment. Importantly, they all seemed to enjoy their time there. Also, ive been to Syracuse several times and have had friends and family live there for short periods and they mostly enjoyed it. I think it is what you make of it. I used to live not too far from there and really did not like the lack of sun in the winters. For me, I think the weather is the biggest downside to Syracuse, which is really saying something given it is also in the rust belt b

Hey @neverspeaketh -

I was at the Syracuse Open House too. I was impressed by it and plan on attending [depending on hearing back from Upenn this week] However if I do get into penn it will be a very tough decision as Syracuse did a great job at really making me want to go, esp in regards to their study abroad approach. 

Because of being one of the oldest architecture programs, Syracuse have many alumni who support the school. Only last year the donations made by alumni reach to 2.5 million dollars. The department is really rich. They invite lecturers from all over the world and using advantage of being near NYC with guest critics, Visiting Critics Studio... The undergrad program has ranked 2nd best in the country and I guess the M.Arch is 19th. However it is generally the same profs, and courses. The city is like in the middle of Toronto, NYC, Boston, and they are using this as an advantage. The school has high reputation and they are fighting against the some ivy schools. I guess that is a good a thing. 

The city is like in the middle of Toronto, NYC, Boston, and they are using this as an advantage.

Each is over 4 hours away.  I am not disputing that they get lecturers from these places.  I am curious if there is any connection between Syracuse and these cities outside the school.

Lecturers hecklers...Their arch program opened up some kind of campus extension here in nyc and I think it's a semester option, so there is some presence here - not to mention there's quite a few alums down here. I imagine with Boston and nyc, if your school is anywhere remotely near, you're bound to have quite a few alums in the closest major cities.

Well, I chose Syracuse and have been moving forward with that decision but I constantly am doubting myself and decisions. Both programs are great and offer so much but, overall, that's the problem. They both offer so much but down different avenues. USC's pedagogy intrigues me. I really like their interest in progressive design geared directly toward cities and urban growth. They offer certificates and courses in lateral fields that interest me and there are opportunities to study abroad in Shanghai - not to mention they are offering me generous money. Syracuse is a program that is progressing design and has many  workshops that introduce students to various design tools and ideas. They have a focus on theory and history but are definitely moving forward. They have the best study abroad program in graduate architecture school. Overall, with how much I will take out for living expenses in L.A., both schools are similar in price. USC is 2 years, Syracuse is 2.5 years. And L.A. is, well...L.A. 

you made the right decision