Architectural Sciences and Technology at Washington State University

Pullman, WA · Public · Bachelor's Degree
46 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
47
Optimistic
46
Base Case
45
Pessimistic
Earnings $49,561/yr (-1% vs median)
AI Risk High (48% exposed)
Job Market Medium (25,400 openings/yr)
ROI 10.4x earnings multiple (4.7x out-of-state)
Ranked #10 of 28 Architectural Sciences and Technology programs Top 50%

Program Analysis

While the immediate earnings might not leap off the page, this program's strength lies in its practical, technology-forward curriculum. WSU’s focus on building sciences and digital modeling prepares you for the technical side of the industry, making you valuable in firms across the Pacific Northwest, from Spokane to Boise and beyond. You’ll be less of a pure conceptual designer and more of the person who understands how buildings actually go together, a skill set increasingly in demand. The high AI risk score reflects the automation of drafting, but your WSU education aims higher, teaching you to manage the complex software and systems that AI will operate within. For a successful career, aggressively pursue internships in Seattle or Portland during your summers. This will build a crucial bridge from Pullman’s regional network to the major metropolitan markets where salaries and opportunities are greatest.

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 $549K $543K $507K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 10.6x 10.4x 9.8x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 4.7x 4.7x 4.4x
Probability of Field Employment 74% 66% 49%
DegreeOutlook Score 47 46 45

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$51,988
Out-of-state: $116,292 (4.7x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$57,604
-11% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$26,666
6.5 months of Year 1 earnings

About Washington State University

With 85% of applicants admitted, Washington State University prioritizes broad access, serving a student body of 21,583 in Pullman, WA.

See all programs and financial aid at Washington State University →

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

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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 46/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Architectural Sciences and Technology at Washington State University?
At 46/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Architectural Sciences and Technology programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Architectural Sciences and Technology at Washington State University?
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.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →