Colleges like Temple University for Architecture BS/BA?

You have three obstacles: cost, geographic location and portfolio. Overall, I’d say that your sound academic record plus your enthusiasm for architecture, planning and related disciplines would make you a person interest to a lot of schools. You may gain some diversity points as well. Make sure your essays and recommendations reinforce these positives.

You really need to have a serious sit down with your parents about the cost of college today. If your parents are unable or unwilling to go beyond $40-50 per year then you really should eliminate schools that are unlikely to offer enough merit to make up the difference. (Which is many of those on your list.)

Your geographic restrictions are workable if the money is workable. (Big IF.) There are plenty of less selective architecture/planning BA/BS programs in New England, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Ohio. As others have mentioned Cincinnati and VCU are strong adds.

I’m not clear on why you’ve decided against submitting a portfolio. You’ve taken art courses and you still have 4 months or so to prepare so it seems that assembling a portfolio is something you should seriously consider.

Schools that require portfolios are not looking for architectural drawings, but rather a way to judge your comfort level with various media (especially drawing) and your preparedness for studio classes. If a portfolio is a possibility then I would add Drexel, Boston Architectural College, MassArt, Kean U and Roger Williams.

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