Program Analysis
University of Illinois Chicago's Architecture graduates start at $27,525/yr, trailing the $45,895 national average by 40%. The program's value hinges on affordability.
Every dollar of in-state tuition returns an estimated 12.2x in decade earnings — an exceptional ratio that places this among the highest-ROI Architecture programs nationally.
Some AI exposure exists in Architecture's typical career paths, with 46% of job tasks potentially affected. The pessimistic scenario still projects solid returns, with a 13% gap from the optimistic case.
Median debt of $23,080 represents roughly 10 months of the $27,525 starting salary — a manageable burden by most borrower standards.
Ranked #64 of 66 Architecture programs, University of Illinois Chicago falls below the median. Stronger options exist, though cost and location may compensate.
Five-year earnings of $61,866 show a 125% jump from the $27,525 starting point — strong upward trajectory suggesting real career acceleration.