<p>rice is a very good architecture school (I think that they are in the top 5 at the least for 5 yr BArch). ND is also very good for architecture. </p>
<p>2 things to consider</p>
<p>1) ND’s religious affiliation - do you mind going to a Catholic university with required theology/philosophy courses</p>
<p>2) ND is not in a city. They are building a shopping village and there are some shops around, but ND is a town will Rice is in a city, with city life. </p>
<p>That beings said, I think that ND has one of the best campus and social environment, especially if you like sports. </p>
<p>ND also focuses on a more traditional form of architecture, but I do not know about Rice. </p>
<p>I will be attending ND in the fall, but that is mostly because I like traditional architecture (and liked their architecture program structure), enjoy theology and philosophy courses, loves sports, and really enjoyed the campus life. If you like the same, then ND is a great place. </p>
<p>good luck, both schools are great for architecture.</p>