Architecture Life

One Response on What are the requirements to become an architect?

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  By Andrew L at August 3rd, 2008

  To become a licensed architect in the United States, there are several qualifications:

  -Receive a professional degree, today only a Master’s or Bachelor’s of Architecture (M.Arch or B.Arch), from an accredited university. Schools are accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB).

  -Register for the Intern Development Program (IDP) with the NCARB (National Council of Architectural Registration Boards).

  -Complete your IDP. This usually takes three years. During this time, you would work for a licensed architect. As an intern, you are required to complete a variety of training units that are fulfilled by a variety of tasks facing architects, from drawing design documents, to bidding, to contract negotiations, and site visits, and so on. You progress is tracked by your supervisor and guided by a mentor.

  -In most states, you much complete your IDP requirements before beginning the Architectural Registration Exams (AREs). Some allow you to take your exams and be in IDP concurrently.

  -There are nine AREs… six multiple-choice: Pre-Design, General Structures, Lateral Forces, Mechanical & Electrical Systems, Building Design / Materials & Methods, and Construction Documents & Services; and three graphic: Site Planning, Building Planning, and Building Technology. The multiple choice tests cost $107 a piece, and the graphic tests cost $153 a piece.

  -Once you have successfully completed the exams, you must apply for a license the NCARB justidiction (state) in which you will practice. This costs money, of course.

  -To maintain your license, you must complete training or continuing education credits every year.

  -That’s it! Optionally, you can apply for NCARB certification, which simplifies the process of becoming licensed in other jurisdictions and completing training requirements.

  And you probably should have a creative imagination and drawing skills….Simple and easy, huh? Becoming an architect is like becoming a doctor, just without the great pay!