The field of architecture represents a unique intersection of artistic vision and scientific precision. Architects are the licensed professionals responsible for designing the buildings and spaces that shape our communities. The path to becoming an architect is a structured process involving education, practical training, and examinations to ensure practitioners are qualified to protect public safety.
The Required Architecture Degree
The foundational step to becoming a licensed architect is earning a professional degree from a program accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). This accreditation is the standard recognized by all state licensing boards and ensures the program meets high-quality standards. Aspiring architects can pursue a Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch), Master of Architecture (M.Arch), or Doctor of Architecture (D.Arch).
The most direct route is the five-year B.Arch program. Another common path is a “4+2” program, where a student earns a four-year, pre-professional degree, such as a Bachelor of Science in Architecture, and then enrolls in a two-year M.Arch program.
For individuals who hold an undergraduate degree in a field unrelated to architecture, the path is still accessible through an M.Arch program. This track is often longer, requiring three or more years of study to cover the necessary architectural coursework.
Gaining Professional Experience
After completing an accredited degree, candidates must acquire and document practical experience through the Architectural Experience Program (AXP). Administered by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB), the AXP is a structured internship requiring thousands of hours of work under the supervision of a licensed architect.
The program requires completing 3,740 hours across six practice areas to ensure a well-rounded understanding of a building project’s lifecycle. These areas are:
- Practice Management
- Project Management
- Programming & Analysis
- Project Planning & Design
- Project Development & Documentation
- Construction & Evaluation
At least half of these hours must be earned while working in an architecture firm under a licensed supervisor. The AXP is a goal-oriented program where candidates must demonstrate competence in 96 specific tasks.
Passing the Licensing Exam
After gaining the necessary education and experience, candidates must pass the Architect Registration Examination (ARE). The ARE is a multi-part exam administered by NCARB and is required for licensure in all U.S. jurisdictions to assess a candidate’s competency.
The current version, ARE 5.0, is divided into six divisions that align with the same practice areas required by the AXP.
Candidates can take the six divisions in any order and must pass all of them. The exam includes various question formats, such as multiple-choice, “check-all-that-apply,” and case studies that simulate real-world scenarios an architect might face.
Obtaining State Licensure
Completing the education, experience, and examination requirements makes an individual eligible to apply for a license. There is no national architecture license in the U.S.; licensure is granted by the board of the specific state or jurisdiction where an individual plans to practice.
While all 55 U.S. jurisdictions have the same three foundational components, some may have additional requirements, such as a supplemental local exam. Candidates must check with their specific state board to ensure they have met all criteria.
For architects who wish to practice in multiple states, NCARB offers a certification program. An NCARB Certificate facilitates reciprocity, simplifying the process of applying for a license in other jurisdictions.
Essential Skills for an Architect
Beyond the formal requirements, architects need a wide range of skills to succeed, including:
- Design and visualization abilities to translate ideas into tangible plans and 3D models using software like CAD and BIM.
- Technical knowledge of building codes, construction methods, and materials to ensure designs are safe and functional.
- Project management skills for overseeing budgets, schedules, and coordinating with consultants and contractors.
- Strong communication and presentation skills to convey concepts to clients, collaborate with teams, and present to regulatory boards.
- Creative and analytical problem-solving to navigate design challenges, site constraints, and client needs.
Career Outlook and Salary
Upon becoming licensed, architects have diverse career opportunities. They may work in small firms focused on residential projects, large corporations designing commercial skyscrapers, for government agencies, or establish their own practices.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for architects is projected to grow 8 percent between 2023 and 2033, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is expected to generate approximately 8,500 job openings each year.
The BLS reported that the median annual wage for architects was $96,690 in May 2024. Salaries can vary based on experience, firm size, and geographic location, with the lowest 10 percent earning less than $60,510 and the highest 10 percent earning more than $159,800.