Architecture at Southern Illinois University-Carbondale

Carbondale, IL · Public · Bachelor's Degree
46 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
47
Optimistic
46
Base Case
48
Pessimistic
Earnings $43,248/yr (-6% vs median)
AI Risk High (46% exposed)
Job Market Medium (23,200 openings/yr)
ROI 10.6x earnings multiple
Ranked #40 of 66 Architecture programs

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Architecture graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $568K $560K $521K
Earnings Multiple 10.7x 10.6x 9.8x
Probability of Field Employment 74% 66% 50%
DegreeOutlook Score 47 46 48

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$52,976
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$64,708
-22% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$25,000
6.9 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$56,459
31% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

First-year earnings of $43,248 track close to the $45,895 national median for Architecture programs. This is a middle-of-the-road outcome on salary alone.

With a 10.6x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 8% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Architecture career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $25,000 against $43,248/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #40 ranking among 66 Architecture programs places Southern Illinois University-Carbondale in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

A 31% earnings increase from $43,248 to $56,459 over five years is solid — not a moonshot, but evidence of normal career advancement.

About Southern Illinois University-Carbondale

Southern Illinois University-Carbondale has a 90% acceptance rate, making it broadly accessible, enrolling 8,116 students in Carbondale, IL.

See all programs and financial aid at Southern Illinois University-Carbondale →

Top Career Paths

Architectural and engineering managers $167,740/yr
Architecture teachers, postsecondary $101,480/yr
Architects, except landscape and naval $96,690/yr
View all 3 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Architecture at Other Schools

Other Majors at Southern Illinois University-Carbondale

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 46/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Architecture at Southern Illinois University-Carbondale?
At 46/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Architecture programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Architecture at Southern Illinois University-Carbondale?
The 46% 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 →