• How to Become an Architect: Education and Career Roadmap
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How to Become an Architect: Education and Career Roadmap

Architects apply creativity and engineering to design a wide range of buildings and structures. Architects are concerned with functionality, safety and pleasant aesthetics. They often partake in every part of the building process - from conception to construction - to ensure a satisfactory result. Becoming an architect is a clear-cut process, requiring a degree, internship experience and state licensure.

Step 1: Complete a Bachelor's Degree Program

State architecture boards determine the requirements for becoming an architect; however, most boards require completion of Bachelor of Architecture programs accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). In June 2011, the NAAB reported that there were 58 such programs available in the U.S. (www.naab.org). These degree programs tend to last five years, and they are geared toward students with no previous architecture experience. Courses may include building systems and technology, project management, structural elements and environmental planning.

Step 2: Consider Earning a Graduate Degree

Many architects pursue advanced education in master's degree programs, which may last 1-5 years depending on the students' previous architectural education. The NAAB accredited 95 Master of Architecture programs in June 2011. Such degree programs may also be a viable option for students who are interested in a career in architecture and hold bachelor's degrees in unrelated fields. Additionally, some schools offer post-professional degree programs, which are not accredited by the NAAB but may be required for specialty, research or teaching positions. Post-professional programs often result in specialized master's or doctoral degree.

Step 3: Attend an Internship Program

All states require that architects complete training or internship programs prior to obtaining licensure. Internships typically last three years and allow training architects to attain hands-on experience under the supervision of licensed architects. Most states employ the Intern Development Program (IDP) administered by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) and the American Institute of Architects. Completion of the IDP entails 5600 hours of state- and NCARB-approved work experience (www.ncarb.org). This experience is divided into elective and core hours, which must focus on specific job functions, such as project management and contract negotiation.

Step 4: Obtain State Licensure

Architects must hold licensure from the states in which they practice. While conditions for obtaining licensure vary, most states require completion of an approved bachelor's degree program and internship. Qualified applicants may sit for the NCARB's Architect Registration Examination (ARE) that is a 7-part pass or fail test covering topics in site planning, building systems and construction documents. License holders may have to renew licensure regularly by earning continuing education credits.

Step 5: Earn Professional Certification

Many architects opt to earn voluntary, NCARB certification, which demonstrates professional aptitude and may make it easier to obtain reciprocal licensure from another state. This certification is available to licensed architects who submit transcripts, documentation of ARE passage and proof of acceptable experience. Candidates may be required to sit for an interview or additional testing before being approved for NCARB certification.

Architect Overview

An architect is a professional who is involved in the designing and planning of structures. Examples of architecture include interior architecture and landscape architecture.

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