Architecture at Drexel University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Drexel's architecture program commands a premium price tag, but the earnings justify it. That $31,000 in debt—right at Pennsylvania's median for architecture schools—translates to just over half of first-year earnings. More importantly, graduates start at $57,730, outearning 95% of architecture programs nationwide. While that places them around the 60th percentile within Pennsylvania (the state has several strong architecture programs), they're still earning nearly $5,000 more than the state median.
The trajectory looks solid: earnings climb 22% to over $70,000 by year four, a pattern suggesting graduates are moving into roles with real career progression. For context, Drexel's co-op program—where students alternate between classroom study and paid professional work—likely contributes to both the higher debt (students take longer to complete the degree) and the stronger earnings (they graduate with substantial professional experience).
For parents concerned about architecture's notoriously demanding path, this program offers a more stable financial foundation than most. The debt load is manageable, the starting salary provides breathing room, and the earnings growth indicates graduates are positioned for advancement rather than scrambling for entry-level work.
Where Drexel University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all architecture bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How Drexel University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Drexel University graduates earn $58k, placing them in the 95th percentile of all architecture bachelors programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Pennsylvania
Architecture bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Pennsylvania (8 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drexel University | $57,730 | $70,265 | $31,000 | 0.54 |
| Marywood University | $48,650 | $63,044 | $31,000 | 0.64 |
| National Median | $47,046 | — | $27,000 | 0.57 |
Other Architecture Programs in Pennsylvania
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Pennsylvania schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marywood University Scranton | $39,570 | $48,650 | $31,000 |
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Drexel University, approximately 25% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 45 graduates with reported earnings and 43 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.