Building success by design

When Carissa Tepe chose to attend Kansas State University's College of Architecture, Planning & Design, the decision came easily.

During a campus visit as a high school student, Tepe saw firsthand APDesign's collaborative culture, where students begin working together from the start of their college careers.

"I wanted to be part of a program where design and community mattered equally," Tepe said.

Now a third-year architecture student, Tepe has experienced how APDesign's rigorous educational model is balanced by a strong support network that helps students navigate long studio hours and demanding project deadlines.

"What keeps me motivated is knowing that design can improve people's lives," Tepe said. "Every project challenges us to think beyond ourselves and consider how spaces affect communities, accessibility and wellbeing."

Stories like Tepe's illustrate APDesign's sustained commitment to student success, a commitment reflected in retention and graduation rates that now exceed national benchmarks for design education.

Over the past nine years, APDesign has significantly strengthened student persistence and achievement. First-to-second-year retention has increased from 87% among freshmen and transfer students entering in 2019 to 94% for those entering in 2024. During the same period, the percentage of students graduating on time, or within five years for professional degree programs, rose from 59.7% to 78.2%.

These gains place APDesign among the nation's top-performing programs. According to the National Architectural Accrediting Board, peer institutions typically report first-to-second-year retention rates between 87% and 90%. Likewise, the Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture reports national on-time graduation rates of approximately 69% to 70%. APDesign exceeds both benchmarks, underscoring its leadership in design education.

Retention and graduation rates surpass national averages

Michael McClure, professor and dean of APDesign, points to strategic investments that have helped sustain this upward trajectory, including expanded scholarship support and enhancements to the student learning environment.

"These outcomes reflect a college that is deeply committed to access, excellence and opportunity," McClure said. "Through initiatives like our Fifth-Year Fellowship Program and ongoing facility improvements, we are ensuring that students not only arrive at APDesign but thrive, graduate and go on to make meaningful impact in their communities."

At the core of this success is a deeply intentional student experience. APDesign offers disciplines including architecture, interior design, interior architecture, industrial design, landscape architecture, regional and community planning, and real estate and community development to freshmen and transfer students.

Five of these disciplines offer five-year master's degree programs anchored by a shared first-year curriculum in environmental design studies. This foundational year helps students build technical skills and a sense of belonging while exploring their interests and developing strong academic and social networks.

A critical component of that support system is proactive, relationship-driven advising. Director of Academic Services Mitzi Farmer leads this effort through a model of intentional engagement that connects with students early, often and meaningfully.

"Our goal is simple: Every student should feel seen, supported and capable of succeeding here," Farmer said. "We meet students where they are — whether that's in the studio, the residence halls or one-on-one conversations — and help them navigate both challenges and opportunities with confidence."

Student-centered culture supports academic success

This culture of care extends across the college. Faculty, staff and leadership share a collective responsibility for student success, creating an environment where academic rigor is matched by personal investment.

"Our ethos is that students are at the heart of everything we do," said Katie Kingery-Page, who leads APDesign's Office of Student & Academic Services and is an associate dean and professor for the college. "The relationships we build begin during recruitment and continue long after graduation, as our alumni shape the future of design practice."

For many students, APDesign's culture of mentorship plays a defining role in their success.

"Mitzi Farmer and the advising team have been incredible throughout my time here," said Jillian Routhieaux, a landscape architecture student from Overland Park. "Faculty members know you by name, they check in on you and they genuinely care about your goals. That kind of support keeps you moving forward even when things get difficult."

Students also credit scholarships, study spaces and peer collaboration with helping them stay on track to graduation.

"As a first-year student, I never felt overlooked or limited by my experience level," said Jadon Young, a second-year landscape architecture student from Lee's Summit, Missouri. "My advisor ensured that all students, regardless of age or background, were exposed to opportunities that would help us grow. She encouraged us to attend professional events, shared important career and internship information and helped us build connections with professionals in the field."