Based on U.S. Department of Education data (October 2025 release). Some figures are estimates based on similar programs — see details below.
Analysis
Similar architectural technology programs across the country suggest median first-year earnings around $49,000—a respectable starting point for a technical bachelor's degree, though not spectacular. With estimated debt of $27,000 based on Indiana State's typical borrowing patterns, the 0.54 debt-to-earnings ratio falls comfortably within manageable territory. The school's 92% admission rate and significant Pell enrollment (39%) indicate it serves a broad student base, though the suppressed data here means we're relying entirely on national patterns rather than this specific program's track record.
The challenge is that architectural technology occupies an in-between space: it's more technical than pure architecture but less licensure-focused than engineering. Nationally, the field shows modest variation—even top-performing programs only push median earnings to about $56,000. This suggests the ceiling may be relatively fixed regardless of where you study, which argues for keeping costs low. If Indiana State's actual outcomes align with these estimates, the debt load seems reasonable for the earnings potential.
For parents, the key question is whether your student is committed to this specific career path. The estimates suggest a workable financial picture, but with no Indiana comparisons available and suppressed data for this program, you're essentially betting that Indiana State's graduates perform like the national average. That's not necessarily a bad bet given the reasonable estimated debt, but recognize you're making decisions with limited visibility into this particular program's outcomes.
Where Indiana State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all architectural sciences and technology bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Architectural Sciences and Technology bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $9,992 | $49,261* | — | $26,823* | — | |
| $12,643 | $81,377* | $98,992 | $18,977* | 0.23 | |
| $17,357 | $64,939* | — | $23,750* | 0.37 | |
| $11,075 | $58,653* | — | $23,500* | 0.40 | |
| $63,061 | $58,622* | — | $31,000* | 0.53 | |
| $59,683 | $58,246* | — | $31,000* | 0.53 | |
| National Median | — | $49,261* | — | $27,000* | 0.55 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with architectural sciences and technology graduates
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
Architecture Teachers, Postsecondary
Architectural and Civil Drafters
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 Indiana State University, approximately 39% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 28 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.