Architecture

Getting Started and Advancing in Major

• To become an architect in almost all states, one must receive a professional degree, Bachelor, Master, or Doctor of Architecture, from an architecture program accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB), gain approximately two years of experience under the supervision of a licensed architect under Architect Experience Program (AXP), and pass the Architect Registration Examination (ARE). Contact NCARB to research your state’s requirements for licensure.
• Architects may also seek certification by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB), which makes it easier to become licensed across states via reciprocity
• Consult the Survey of Architectural Registration Boards for the number of architects licensed in the United States and trends in the field.
• Graduate degree programs (Master of Architecture) exist for individuals who did not major in architecture at the undergraduate level. A strong background in the physical sciences and math is recommended.
• Architecture involves much more than designing buildings. Conduct informational interviews with architects and visit their offices to learn more about the field.
• Architecture is a combination of art and science.  Students of architecture must be able to conceptualize and understand spatial relations and be detail-oriented. Develop creativity, analytical skills, and a sense of quality.  Supplement curriculum with art and photography classes.
• Oral and written communications skills are important particularly when working with clients, construction crews, or government officials. Good writing skills are valuable for developing architectural proposals.
• Computer Aided Design and Drafting (CADD), Building Information Modeling (BIM), and other computer technologies are prevalent in the field of architecture. Develop as many computer skills as possible.
• The job market for architects, especially residential, varies with changes in economy as demand is often tied to level of construction.
• Two-thirds of licensed architects in the U.S. are in private practice. Most (over 75%) architects work in firms of fewer than ten individuals.
• Related fields include graphic, interior, or industrial design, real estate development, civil engineering, and construction management.
• Some architects specialize in a particular building type. Graduate study in the field may be helpful for specializing. Other architects may specialize in a certain function of the firm such as project management or specification writing.
• Areas of specialization include historic preservation/renovation, healthcare facilities, sports facilities, educational facilities, master planning, corporate facilities planning, project management, city planning, interior design or other related fields.
• Students need to design a portfolio (traditional and digital format) to use when interviewing. Include freehand drawings, process sketches, final drawings by hand and computer, photos of study models and finished models, a sample of writing, and work from technical courses.