University of Pennsylvania Weitzman School
- Acceptance Rate
- 65.0%
- SAT Range
- 1050–1250
- ACT Range
- N/A
- Avg GPA
- 3.25
- Size
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- Type
- N/A
- Student:Faculty
- N/A
- Setting
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- Graduation Rate
- N/A
- Retention Rate
- N/A
- Tuition (In-State)
- N/A
- Tuition (Int'l)
- N/A
Student Life & Environment
Student life at the Weitzman School is shaped by the intensive demands of design education combined with the resources of a major research university. Studio culture forms the core of the experience for architecture students, with students spending long hours in studio spaces working on design projects, critiquing each other's work, and engaging in the iterative process of design development. The school's facilities remain open extended hours to accommodate this working pattern, and studios become social spaces where relationships develop through shared endeavor. Graduate housing is available through Penn's graduate housing system, with options ranging from apartments to shared houses in University City and surrounding neighborhoods. Many students live within walking or biking distance of campus. West Philadelphia offers relatively affordable urban living compared to other major cities, with a mix of commercial districts, residential neighborhoods, and natural areas. The school's location on Penn's campus provides access to university resources including libraries, recreational facilities, health services, and counseling. The design school community includes students from architecture, planning, landscape, preservation, and fine arts, creating opportunities for interdisciplinary interaction and collaboration. Student organizations sponsor lectures, exhibitions, and social events. Career services assist students with portfolios, job searches, and professional development. The demands of studio-based education can create stress, and the school provides support resources while also working to foster a culture that values wellbeing alongside achievement. Philadelphia's design community offers connections to practitioners and cultural institutions that enrich the educational experience.
Location & Surroundings
The Weitzman School is located on the University of Pennsylvania's campus in University City, West Philadelphia. The campus occupies a distinct urban district bounded by the Schuylkill River and residential neighborhoods, combining historic buildings including the original college buildings with modern facilities. The neighborhood has developed substantially in recent decades, with new commercial districts, research facilities, and housing complementing the historic campus core. Philadelphia's public transit system includes subway, trolley, and bus lines that connect University City to Center City and other areas. Many students walk or bike, with dedicated bike lanes improving cycling safety. Regional rail provides access to the suburbs and Amtrak serves the 30th Street Station, adjacent to campus, connecting to New York, Washington, and other cities. The climate features four distinct seasons, with cold winters that can bring snow, hot and humid summers, and pleasant spring and fall periods. Philadelphia's cost of living is moderate compared to New York or Boston, making graduate education more affordable. The city has experienced substantial revitalization, with a growing restaurant scene, arts community, and technology sector. Philadelphia's rich architectural heritage and design community provide context for design education. Philadelphia International Airport provides domestic and international connections.
Costs & Career Outcomes
Tuition at the Weitzman School reflects Penn's position as a private Ivy League university, with annual costs exceeding 55,000 USD. The three-year Master of Architecture program carries a total tuition cost approaching 175,000 USD. Living expenses in Philadelphia add significantly to total costs, though the city is somewhat more affordable than New York or Boston. The Weitzman School provides merit-based financial aid, with some full-tuition scholarships available for exceptional applicants. Need-based aid supplements merit scholarships for students demonstrating financial need. Teaching and research assistantships provide additional support for some students. Despite available aid, many students graduate with significant debt. Career outcomes for Weitzman graduates reflect the school's strong reputation in design fields. Architecture graduates enter roles at design firms ranging from small studios to large corporate practices. Planning graduates pursue careers in government agencies, nonprofit organizations, real estate development, and consulting firms. Starting salaries vary significantly by field and location, with architecture graduates typically earning 50,000-70,000 USD initially, while planning graduates may see similar or somewhat higher starting compensation. Career services support job placement through portfolio reviews, recruiting events, and alumni connections. The Philadelphia design community provides local employment opportunities while graduates also disperse to major markets nationally.
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