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Architect Training and Qualifications
There are three main steps in becoming an architect. First is the attainment
of a professional degree in architecture. Second is work experience through an
internship, and third is licensure through the passing of the Architect
Registration Exam.
Education and training. In most States, the professional degree
in architecture must be from one of the 114 schools of architecture that have
degree programs accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board.
However, State architectural registration boards set their own standards, so
graduation from a non-accredited program may meet the educational requirement
for licensing in a few States.
Three types of professional degrees in architecture are available: a 5-year
bachelor’s degree, which is most common and is intended for students with no
previous architectural training; a 2-year master’s degree for students with an
undergraduate degree in architecture or a related area; and a 3- or 4-year
master’s degree for students with a degree in another discipline.
The choice of degree depends on preference and educational background.
Prospective architecture students should consider the options before committing
to a program. For example, although the 5-year bachelor of architecture offers
the fastest route to the professional degree, courses are specialized, and if
the student does not complete the program, transferring to a program in another
discipline may be difficult. A typical program includes courses in architectural
history and theory, building design with an emphasis on CADD, structures,
technology, construction methods, professional practice, math, physical
sciences, and liberal arts. Central to most architectural programs is the design
studio, where students apply the skills and concepts learned in the classroom,
creating drawings and three-dimensional models of their designs.
Many schools of architecture also offer postprofessional degrees for those
who already have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in architecture or other areas.
Although graduate education beyond the professional degree is not required for
practicing architects, it may be required for research, teaching, and certain
specialties.
All State architectural registration boards require architecture graduates to
complete a training period—usually at least 3 years—before they may sit for the
licensing exam. Every State, with the exception of Arizona, has adopted the
training standards established by the Intern Development Program, a branch of
the American Institute of Architects and the National Council of Architectural
Registration Boards (NCARB). These standards stipulate broad training under the
supervision of a licensed architect. Most new graduates complete their training
period by working as interns at architectural firms. Some States allow a portion
of the training to occur in the offices of related professionals, such as
engineers or general contractors. Architecture students who complete internships
while still in school can count some of that time toward the 3-year training
period.
Interns in architectural firms may assist in the design of one part of a
project, help prepare architectural documents or drawings, build models, or
prepare construction drawings on CADD. Interns also may research building codes
and materials or write specifications for building materials, installation
criteria, the quality of finishes, and other, related details.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor,
Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2008-09 Edition
Find related resources below:
Architect Income
Architect Job Outlook
Architect Training and Qualifications
Architect Licensing |