Best Architectural Engineering institutions in the US, ranked by earnings
Compare 29 U.S. colleges offering Architectural Engineering by graduate earnings, cost, and outcomes. Federal data across 20 states.
About Architectural Engineering programs
Architectural Engineering is a specialized field within engineering that focuses on the design and construction of buildings. This discipline integrates various engineering principles, including environmental, structural, mechanical, and electrical engineering, to create functional and sustainable infrastructure. It is ideal for students interested in the technical aspects of building design and construction, distinguishing itself from traditional architecture and interior design.
In this program, students develop essential skills in reading comprehension, mathematics, and critical thinking. Coursework typically covers design principles, engineering technology, and project management, equipping graduates with the knowledge needed to tackle complex architectural projects effectively.
Top 12 institutions, ranked by graduate earnings
Earnings = median 1 year after graduation (College Scorecard, predominant credential).
| # | Institution | Grad earnings (1 yr) | Completions | Grad rate | Net price | Median debt |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo San Luis Obispo, CA Public · Bachelor's degree | $80,481 | 57 | 86% | — | $25,116 |
| 2 | Auburn University Auburn, AL Public · Bachelor's degree | $77,115 | 253 | 82% | — | $22,000 |
| 3 | University of Kansas Lawrence, KS Public · Bachelor's degree | $76,353 | 33 | 69% | — | $23,000 |
| 4 | Drexel University Philadelphia, PA Private not-for-profit · Bachelor's degree | $76,272 | 39 | 78% | $36,004 | $31,000 |
| 5 | Kansas State University Manhattan, KS Public · Bachelor's degree | $74,091 | 40 | 71% | — | $27,000 |
| 6 | The University of Texas at Austin Austin, TX Public · Bachelor's degree | $73,510 | 56 | 89% | — | $25,701 |
| 7 | Missouri University of Science and Technology Rolla, MO Public · Bachelor's degree | $73,274 | 38 | 64% | — | $27,000 |
| 8 | University of Cincinnati - Main Campus Cincinnati, OH Public · Bachelor's degree | $72,691 | 35 | 75% | — | $25,880 |
| 9 | University of Colorado Boulder Boulder, CO Public · Bachelor's degree | $72,567 | 37 | 74% | — | $15,165 |
| 10 | North Carolina A & T State University Greensboro, NC Public · Bachelor's degree | $67,152 | 39 | 57% | — | $28,608 |
| 11 | University of Wyoming Laramie, WY Public · Bachelor's degree | $66,497 | 21 | 59% | — | — |
| 12 | Texas A&M University - Kingsville Kingsville, TX Public · Bachelor's degree | $55,459 | 22 | 42% | — | $24,743 |
Offered across 20 states
The same program, compared state by state. Pick a state for in-state earnings and institutions.
| State | Institutions | Median earnings | Top institution by earnings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Californialimited | 1 | $80,481 | California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo |
| Alabamalimited | 2 | $77,115 | Auburn University |
| Kansaslimited | 2 | $76,353 | University of Kansas |
| Pennsylvanialimited | 2 | $76,272 | Drexel University |
| Texas | 4 | $73,510 | The University of Texas at Austin |
| Missourilimited | 1 | $73,274 | Missouri University of Science and Technology |
| Ohiolimited | 1 | $72,691 | University of Cincinnati - Main Campus |
| Coloradolimited | 1 | $72,567 | University of Colorado Boulder |
| North Carolinalimited | 1 | $67,152 | North Carolina A & T State University |
| Wyominglimited | 1 | $66,497 | University of Wyoming |
| Arizonalimited | 1 | — | — |
| Floridalimited | 1 | — | — |
| Illinoislimited | 1 | — | — |
| Massachusettslimited | 2 | — | — |
| Michiganlimited | 2 | — | — |
| Nebraskalimited | 1 | — | — |
| Oklahomalimited | 2 | — | — |
| Oregonlimited | 1 | — | — |
| Tennesseelimited | 1 | — | — |
| Wisconsinlimited | 1 | — | — |
Careers & outlook
The payoff after graduation: occupation 11-9041, Architectural and Engineering Managers, and its national outlook.
Graduates of Architectural Engineering can expect a positive job outlook, with a growth rate of about 3.8% and approximately 14,500 annual openings in the field. The median wage for professionals in this area is $167,740, and a typical educational requirement is a Bachelor's degree.
Top-paying metros
Related careers
Skills & knowledge in Architectural Engineering programs
From the U.S. Dept. of Labor for the occupation this program most leads to.
Skills you'll build
Knowledge areas
What graduates do on the job
- Manage the coordination and overall integration of technical activities in architecture or engineering projects.
- Direct, review, or approve project design changes.
- Consult or negotiate with clients to prepare project specifications.
- Prepare budgets, bids, or contracts.
- Present and explain proposals, reports, or findings to clients.
- Confer with management, production, or marketing staff to discuss project specifications or procedures.
Tools & technology
Concentrations within Architectural Engineering
Specializations under this field (NCES CIP 2020).
- Architectural EngineeringCIP 14.0401
A program that prepares individuals to apply mathematical and scientific principles to the design, development and operational evaluation of materials, systems, and methods used to construct and equip
Common questions
What is Architectural Engineering?+
Architectural Engineering focuses on the engineering and construction of buildings, integrating various engineering disciplines.
What skills will I learn?+
Students will gain skills in mathematics, critical thinking, design, and project management.
What is the job outlook for this field?+
The job outlook is positive, with a growth rate of 3.8% and about 14,500 annual openings.
What is the average salary for Architectural Engineers?+
The median wage for Architectural Engineers is $167,740.
Related programs
Other programs in the same field of study.
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