Architecture at The Catholic University of America

Washington, DC · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree
38 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
39
Optimistic
38
Base Case
39
Pessimistic
Earnings $44,615/yr (-3% vs median)
AI Risk High (46% exposed)
Job Market Medium (23,200 openings/yr)
ROI 3.0x earnings multiple
Ranked #55 of 66 Architecture programs

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Architecture graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $690K $669K $604K
Earnings Multiple 3.1x 3.0x 2.7x
Probability of Field Employment 74% 66% 50%
DegreeOutlook Score 39 38 39

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$223,336
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$131,192
41% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$26,712
7.2 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$68,607
54% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

At $44,615/yr, Architecture graduates from The Catholic University of America land near the $45,895 national average — neither a standout nor a red flag.

At 3.0x tuition cost, the financial math is tight. Decade earnings don't dramatically exceed what you paid, making school choice and aid packages critical.

The 12% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Architecture career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $26,712 against $44,615/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #55 ranking among 66 Architecture programs places The Catholic University of America in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

The $44,615-to-$68,607 earnings arc over five years reflects a 54% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.

About The Catholic University of America

With 84% of applicants admitted, The Catholic University of America prioritizes broad access, a smaller institution with 3,063 students in Washington, DC. After financial aid, the average student pays $131,192 over four years — 41% below sticker price.

See all programs and financial aid at The Catholic University of America →

Top Career Paths

Architectural and engineering managers $167,740/yr
Architecture teachers, postsecondary $101,480/yr
Architects, except landscape and naval $96,690/yr
View all 3 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Architecture at Other Schools

Other Majors at The Catholic University of America

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 38/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Architecture at The Catholic University of America?
At 38/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Architecture programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Architecture at The Catholic University of America?
The 46% 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.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →