Architect

• As Architecture combines science and art, many Architects complete a 5-year Bachelor of Architecture program
  • Note, many colleges offer degrees in Architectural Studies, but they may not be nationally accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). As a result, the graduate might have to complete a master’s to qualify for state licensure. The Bureau of Labor Statistics points out that “two-thirds of states require that architects hold a degree in architecture from one of more than 120 schools of architecture accredited by NAAB”
• Apart from a NAAB-accredited degree, students may also pursue a Master of Architecture (M. Arch) or a PhD
• States also require Architect hopefuls to complete a paid internship of up to 3 years, generally with a firm approved by the AXP — Architectural Experience Program (administered by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards)
• Following the internship, workers must pass the Architect Registration Examination
• The educational requirements never stop, with continuing education needed in most states to maintain licensure. These requirements may include workshops, classes, conferences, and self-study

Getting licensed varies by jurisdiction; however, below are the general steps. For more information about specific jurisdictions, go to NCARB.

• Intern Development Program (IDP)
• Pass ARE (Architecture Registration Examinations) licensing exams
• Get an initial license
• Get certified
• Continuing education requirements

• 1% with High School Diploma
• 5% with Associate’s
• 49% with Bachelor’s
• 32% with Master’s
• 8% with Doctoral/Professional

Some schools are known for being very hands-on about building while others are known to be more conceptual. Some architecture departments are housed in the same building as the landscape architecture, urban design, or art departments. Depending on your personal bent, you should choose a school that suits what kind of architect you would like to be.

Top 10 Architecture Undergraduate Programs for 2018 

1. Cornell University
2. California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
3. Syracuse University
4. Virginia Tech
5. University of Southern California
6. Rice University
7. University of Texas, Austin
8. Southern California Institute of Architecture
9. Pratt Institute
10. Rhode Island School of Design

Top 10 Architecture Graduate Programs for 2018

1. Harvard University
2. Columbia University
3. Cornell University
4. Yale University
5. Massachusetts Institute of Technology
6. University of California, Los Angeles
7. University of Pennsylvania
8. University of California, Berkeley
9. University of Southern California
10. Washington University, St. Louis

• As soon as you know you’re interested in studying Architecture, start looking at college program requirements. Many schools are competitive and want candidates with sufficient background to succeed in their rigorous courses
• Make sure to lay a strong foundation for your college work by taking high school classes related to art, AP 3D Art and Design, photography, graphic design, math, and physics
• In terms of math, you’ll need to study most of the branches, including geometry, algebra, calculus, and trigonometry. Physics is also crucial for understanding the various forces that come into play
• Don’t wait to get started on a portfolio to show schools and prospective employers. The portfolio doesn’t have to be entirely architecture-related
  • For example, to apply to Cornell’s undergraduate program, the requirement is, “The portfolio should contain several examples of freehand drawings including sketches as well as fully developed work. In addition to drawing, a range of artistic media needs to be demonstrated, but each applicant should emphasize the work where their skills and passion are expressed most strongly. Painting, printmaking, sculpture, photography, video, woodworking, and other crafts can convey artistic experience and aptitude.”