Median Earnings (1yr)
$26,282
5th percentile
Median Debt
$30,500
13% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
1.16
Elevated
Sample Size
29
Limited data

Analysis

Morgan State's architecture graduates start with surprisingly low earnings—$26,282 ranks in just the 5th percentile nationally—but the story gets more complex. By year four, salaries jump to $55,263, an impressive 110% increase that actually surpasses the national median. This dramatic growth suggests graduates may be entering the workforce at entry-level positions or internships common in architecture, then moving into licensed professional roles as they gain experience and credentials.

The concerning part is timing: with $30,500 in debt and those low initial earnings, graduates face real financial pressure during licensure years when they're also studying for professional exams. Even after the earnings boost, the program still trails University of Maryland's architecture graduates by about $9,000 annually. Among Maryland's two architecture programs, Morgan State ranks 25th percentile for earnings, meaning it's the lower-earning option in the state.

The small sample size here is critical—we're looking at fewer than 30 graduates, so one person's career path can skew these numbers significantly. For families considering this program, the question becomes whether your student can weather those lean first years while pursuing licensure. If cost is a major factor and Maryland is your state, this becomes a tougher sell given UMD's stronger outcomes and similar debt burden.

Where Morgan State University Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all architecture bachelors's programs nationally

Morgan State UniversityOther architecture programs

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 Morgan State University graduates compare to all programs nationally

Morgan State University graduates earn $26k, placing them in the 5th 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 Maryland

Architecture bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Maryland (2 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Morgan State University$26,282$55,263$30,5001.16
University of Maryland-College Park$46,347$63,218$22,6540.49
National Median$47,046—$27,0000.57

Other Architecture Programs in Maryland

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Maryland schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
University of Maryland-College Park
College Park
$11,505$46,347$22,654

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 Morgan State University, approximately 54% 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 29 graduates with reported earnings and 47 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.