Compare 8 Architecture. programs in California. Average earnings: $65,528.
The highest-earning Architecture program isn't at the most prestigious school. With a $47K earnings gap across 8 programs, the data confirms: program-level factors drive outcomes more than institutional brand.
California College of the Arts leads with graduates earning $78,642, well above the state average of $65,528. Cal Poly Pomona follows at $73,603, demonstrating how regional publics compete directly with private institutions in specialized fields like architecture.
High earnings don't tell the whole story—debt burden matters. Cal Poly Pomona graduates borrow $16,000 and face just a 4.3% payment burden, landing in the 'Excellent' category. That means loan payments take a minimal bite out of their post-grad income.
Highest program earnings: $78,642
Strong outcomes with 73% acceptance
4.3% payment burden | Excellent
8.9% family burden | Good
| Rank | School | Program Earnings | Cohort Size | Student Debt | Student GPS | Parent Debt | Parent GPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | $78,642 | 26 | $27,000 | Excellent | $28,055 | Manageable | |
| #2 | $73,603 | 88 | $16,000 | Excellent | $15,000 | Good | |
| #3 | University Of San FranciscoPrivate | $70,929 | 21 | $23,000 | Excellent | $44,413 | Challenging |
| #4 | $70,760 | 31 | $18,500 | Excellent | $35,000 | Manageable | |
| #5 | $68,788 | 9 | $18,000 | Excellent | $31,803 | Manageable | |
| #6 | Woodbury UniversityPrivate | $66,294 | 13 | $26,960 | Good | $39,059 | Challenging |
| #7 | $63,901 | 97 | $13,000 | Excellent | $28,508 | Manageable | |
| #8 | $31,305 | 22 | $14,000 | Challenging | $26,176 | High |
Our program rankings answer: "Which schools have the best outcomes for graduates of this specific major?"
Unlike traditional rankings that measure overall school quality, these rankings focus on program-level outcomes. A school that's #200 overall might have a top-10 nursing program — and that matters if you're studying nursing.
Data based on 2024-2025 Dept of Education reporting standards. Learn about our methodology →
