Architectural Sciences and Technology at California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo, CA · Public · Bachelor's Degree
53 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
54
Optimistic
53
Base Case
51
Pessimistic
Earnings $58,653/yr (17% vs median)
AI Risk High (48% exposed)
Job Market Medium (25,400 openings/yr)
ROI 13.8x earnings multiple (4.9x out-of-state)
Ranked #3 of 28 Architectural Sciences and Technology programs Top 25%

Program Analysis

Cal Poly’s "learn by doing" philosophy is the key driver behind these strong outcomes. Your education here won't be purely theoretical; it’s deeply rooted in hands-on studio projects that mimic real-world architectural challenges. This practical focus makes you immediately valuable to employers. The program has an exceptional reputation throughout California, creating a direct recruiting pipeline to top architecture and design firms in Los Angeles and the Bay Area, from giants like Gensler to innovative smaller studios. You'll graduate with a portfolio, not just a transcript, demonstrating skills that go beyond drafting into project management and sustainable design. To maximize this advantage, actively pursue internships in your junior and senior years. The connections you build in California's robust construction and development industry will be just as critical as your final projects.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Architectural Sciences and Technology graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $626K $611K $559K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 14.1x 13.8x 12.6x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 5.0x 4.9x 4.5x
Probability of Field Employment 74% 66% 49%
DegreeOutlook Score 54 53 51

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$44,300
Out-of-state: $123,980 (4.9x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$62,496
-41% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$23,500
4.8 months of Year 1 earnings

About California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo

California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo accepts 30% of applicants — selective, though not ultra-competitive, one of the larger campuses at 21,521 students in San Luis Obispo, CA.

See all programs and financial aid at California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo →

Top Career Paths

Architectural and engineering managers $167,740/yr
Architecture teachers, postsecondary $101,480/yr
Architectural and civil drafters $64,280/yr
View all 3 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Architectural Sciences and Technology at Other Schools

Other Majors at California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo

Is a Trade Program a Better Fit?

For students who prefer applied learning, trade programs can deliver strong earnings with significantly less debt and shorter time to employment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 53/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Architectural Sciences and Technology at California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo?
At 53/100, California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo's Architectural Sciences and Technology program delivers middling returns. School cost and personal fit become important decision factors.
Should I worry about AI if I study Architectural Sciences and Technology at California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo?
The 48% AI task exposure score is above average. Our model shows this affecting job availability more than salaries — graduates may face stiffer competition for fewer positions.
Is California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo one of the best schools for Architectural Sciences and Technology?
Among 28 Architectural Sciences and Technology programs, California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo's #3 position reflects consistently above-average results across earnings, ROI, and employment probability.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →