Decline in Licensure Rates

So, this week, the AIA released the third quarter ABI (Architecture Billings Index); for me, that was not so much interesting, but later the article had a pie chart (see below) highlighting the reasons for the ongoing decline in rates of licensure according to firm leaders.

In viewing the chart more closely, it is clear that the primary reason for the decline is "few benefits/incentives - 32%.  Thus, why would one become an architect if there is no benefit or incentive.  If one wishes to be in the profession, simply obtain the degree and work for a firm under the supervision of an architect.  In this scenario, they would not be able to call themselves an architect or open their own firm (a valid reason to pursue licensure).  

But from stories I have heard, firms do not provide any additional financial compensation when a staff becomes licensed.  Typically, there is no more responsibility just because the individual is an architect.

To stem this decline, the profession needs to provide incentive; in turn, we need to provide benefit or incentive to clients to hire architects.  

Most of the other reasons are, in my opinion, "complaining.  The "process is too costly, not prepared for the ARE, etc." are just excuses from the candidate/intern.

I do find it interesting that a full 13% are not fully committed to a career in architecture; while this sounds like a valid reason, why are they not fully committed.

Bottom line, what can the profession do to improve the benefit of becoming an architect?  Is money the solution?  I hope not, but a raise when becoming licensed certainly would help.  I do think more firms help subsidize the ARE and IDP.

What else can be done?  I am not sure, but do not law firms celebrate when their staff pass the bar.  The AIA does provide free convention registration to those who have become licensed in the past year.

As an educator, I try to do my part and strongly encourage my students/graduates to pursue licensure, but what should I tell them is waiting for them?

Just my thoughts!

Design Activity in the Third Quarter Opens with a Bang

http://www.aia.org/practicing/AIAB104451

Firms see many reasons for declining licensure rates among younger staff

Best Undergraduate Major to pursue Master of Architecture

Hello,
I am a high school student who wants to be an architect. My father works at a Nazarene university, so his children (me) gets free tuition to any Nazarene university. Unfortunately no Nazarene university has an architecture degree. I've heard of people getting degrees in non architecture related things and then going on and getting a masters of architecture. So my question is, what degree would most benefit me to become an architect if I can't get an architecture degree where I am going? And what schools have a great masters program?

Thanks for your time!
_________

First, you are correct in that there are many U.S. institutions that offer a Master of Architecture degree for those that pursue an undergraduate degree in another discipline, no matter the discipline.  

To research programs, visit - http://www.naab.org and http://archschools.org.

Now, with respect to what degree or major you should pursue, I would first share that pursue one for which you have a passion -- do what you love.  What is most critical is that you have great academics (GPA) when you apply to these graduate programs and you are more likely to have great academics if you pursue one for which you have a passion.

Next, it would be best to pursue a degree that is related to architecture if possible (art, landscape architecture, civil engineering, etc.) as you would possibly be able to waive courses at the graduate level.  Also, you want to pursue a major that would help you build a portfolio -- take courses that create materials for a portfolio.

Lastly, select an institution that is a good fit for you - one that you will enjoy as you may change your mind and not choose architecture in the long term.

Best.

After B.Arch, What is Next?

I am an Indian student in a premier institute of architecture, Chandigarh College of Architecture. I am in my final year of a 5 year course and I want an advice on how to proceed with my career.

I know my options- M. Arch. , MBA, MBA and M. Arch. dual degree, M. Des. , and last but not the least- a job.

But I don't know if you know this, the salary given to fresh graduates in India is very very little. Hardly 1/3rd of what is required to survive.

I have been a bright student in maths and I am a creative person in general. Because of the pressure of all other overachievers, my parents want me to do an MBA right away and earn good money. But even for that, you need an experience of min 2 years to get a good college. (When I say my parents want me to do .... , I mean I cant go out of the way and do something else and hope that they get around with it. They'll probably break all ties with me if I do something offbeat or something with late returns (or no returns))

I am interested in masters education in the following subjects;

-sustainable buildings

-urban planning

-marketing

However, given the situation, a good return is guaranteed on marketing, construction management and a regular MBA in any college I get a place in.

I am open to a job in Europe or USA because I believe that the exposure might be good and they even are financially supporting. But I don't know if I'll be a good candidate because of the recession. F.y.i. I did my internship in Austria and I loved my time there. I learned a lot and enjoyed being among creatively stimulating environs and people.

I aim to do my masters in the US but my family can't afford the education bill. Loan is going to be the only option.

I am giving GRE next month as it will be helpful for admissions in both  M. Arch. and MBA and is valid for 5 years. Apart from this, I aim to give LEED Green Associate exam sometime before I graduate so that I could maybe get any edge while applying for a job (will I get an edge while applying for a job?). 

I hope to receive a good advice from you as I am very confused as to what to do in the future.

Regards

_______________

I am not sure what you expect to hear from me; my expertise is becoming an architect in the U.S.

Given you are about to complete your 5-year Bachelor of Architecture, you do have choices - career position or pursuit of additional education in architecture and/or related disciplines.

As I counsel my own students, you can go through the application process to graduate programs in the U.S. or elsewhere. Some programs do have fellowships and other means of financial aid; be sure to apply.  For what degree to apply is entirely up to you.  If you wish to become licensed in the U.S., you may consider the professional NAAB accredited Master of Architecture along with joint degrees - i.e., MBA, Construction Management.

The true question is what make most sense given where you will be in your career in 10-20 years.  Predict your future!

Sources for information is http://www.naab.org and http://archschools.org.  Both will provide a list of programs in the U.S. for architecture. 

I do think obtaining your LEED GA will be a plus, but do recognize that it will be nearly impossible for you to gain employment in the U.S. without first being a student at a U.S. program.

Best.

Art History to Architecture

My daughter just graduated from UC Berkeley with a major in art history.  She has always been attracted by the field of architecture and is now contemplating a career in architecture. She took an introductory class this summer and loved it. Spent a lot of time in the studio!   

With your experience, what are her chances to be accepted in an M Arch program, given her background in art history?   

Any advice?

Thank you very much!  

__________________

Ultimately, her chances of admission to a Master of Architecture will depend on your credentials - i.e., GPA, GRE scores (if required), portfolio, letters of recommendation, and personal statement.  In many respects, her admission will NOT be dependent on her actual undergraduate major.

Most, if not all of the architecture graduate programs fully expect candidates to apply for a myriad of academic backgrounds -- English, engineering, fine arts, etc.  The programs assume an interest and desire to pursue architecture - the question is if they have the potential.

Given UC-Berkeley has an architecture program, contact them for initial advice on applying.  Have her talk/shadow an architect to learn more about the profession.

As well, consider obtaining the book - Becoming an Architect, 3rd Edition.

Becoming an Architect: A Guide to Careers in Design - 3rd Edition

http://www.wiley.com/WileyCDA/WileyTitle/productCd-1118612132.html

Best and feel free to have her contact me with additional questions.

Joint Degree: Worth It?

I'm not sure if you remember me, but around seven years ago I sat in your office as a student in College Park and you told me to apply to Michigan. Two years later you gave a lecture to my class at the Taubman College of Architecture in Ann Arbor about becoming an architect. During the lecture you called me out in the audience, which confused the hell out of my classmates. I graduated with a BS in 2010 and have been working in New York and the Middle East since then. 

Lately I've been contemplating a return to school in order to pursue an MArch. My boss is critical of the idea, mostly because of how much work we're getting at the moment, but I think in the long run, it's the right move. I've been doing a little bit of research into the MArch/MBA dual degree and I came across this link: 

http://archcareers.blogspot.com/2011/01/dual-marchmba-programs.html

Pretty weird coincidence. Figured I'd drop you a line and ask your opinion of these dual programs. My main hesitation is the intensity and workload. I can't imagine pursuing an architecture degree while simultaneously attending a school like Wharton or Ross. I also feel like I'd inevitably miss out on some useful architecture electives (fabrication, processing, etc). At the same time, I've worked for enough offices to recognize that architects are generally poor businessmen, which is what led to my interest in this option in the first place. For students who do complete the dual degree, what kind of jobs are they getting out of school? 

Sorry for the monster email, but it's not often that I randomly cross paths with the same person, even if it is over the internet. Just by suggesting that I check out UMich, you've already had a pretty big impact on my career, so I appreciate any other advice I can get.    

___________

On the surface, I wholeheartedly support the pursuit of joint degrees at the graduate level.  It makes you as the candidate more marketable in the job market.  In most cases, it allows you to complete two degrees in less time and less investment.

To best determine what graduates are doing, I suggest you contact the programs that offer the joint MBA/MArch degree. From my experience at Illinois, some depart architecture for various reasons.

As to whether you should pursue the degrees now or not will depend on your situation.  If your firm has work, perhaps now is NOT the time but you can research, take the GMAT, etc.

In the long road having two degrees creates options and opportunities; what those will be is determined by you.

Best!

Psychology to Architecture

I have recently been considering going back to school for architecture but do not have any background in the field, so I was looking for some information on what the path would entail. I have a B.A. in psychology from a top US university and have been working in biomedical research for the past two years. Where would I start in terms of schooling to become an architect?

Thank you for your help.

___________

Given you have a degree albeit in another discipline, you may pursue the Master of Architecture (3-4 years).  If you wish to research potential programs, visit - http://www.naab.org and/or http://archschools.org.  Both will provide you with a list of institutions that offer the Master of Architecture.

As well, a group of schools in Illinois host the Chicago Architecture + Design College Day - Saturday, October 18, 2014 -http://www.chicagocareerday.org --

A good place to start is obtaining a copy of Becoming an Architect, 3rd ed. published by Wiley.

Becoming an Architect: A Guide to Careers in Design - 3rd Edition
http://www.wiley.com/WileyCDA/WileyTitle/productCd-1118612132.html

As you research programs for F15, note that some may require you to take Calculus and/or Physics.  As well, you will need to submit a portfolio with your application.  Start drawing or consider taking a drawing course.

If possible, shadow an architect; contact the local chapter of AIA American Institute of Architects.

Keep in touch in your path.

Best

@DocArchitecture

Transition back to Architecture

I was hoping you could help me make the decision of whether to try to return to architecture or stay in my present position.

My background is pretty disjointed and I have been away from architecture for quite a while. I finished my M. Arch program in 1997 from a top ten program and was able to find work easily. I never stayed at any one firm for more than a year however. For several years I would take jobs, work for a short while and then leave.  I was recently able to go back to work full-time in accounting however, I can't see working in this field forever. I wanted to go back to architecture several years ago and took classes in Revit and construction management. Unfortunately, the economy did not cooperate and I had to make alternative plans.

Now that the market is picking up, I am hoping to reverse ten years of lost time. My portfolio contains two projects that I designed completely in Revit and I am learning how to use Sketchup.

Do you think it is possible to sell myself to a firm (any firm) when I haven't worked in the field for such a long time? Are there markets that are hungry enough for someone like me?

________________

Based on what you have shared, I do think it is possible, but it may take a little longer than you might think given you have been out of the discipline for many years.  In some respects, you need to build your skill level as much has changed in the profession.

One source is Black Spectacles - http://blackspectacles.com/ - it has training videos for architectural software.

Can you connect back with the firms you were with previously either for employment or mentoring?  Have you joined the AIA to network and connect?

Have you considered employment in a related field to architecture to transition back?  Can you bridge your accounting and architecture?

Ultimately, it is NOT a matter of the firms being hungry for you, but rather how hungry are you for them.  Having graduated in 1997 you have plenty of worklife left.  If accounting is not excited for you, go for it, but develop a plan for the transition. 

Best.

Architecture vs. Industrial Design

I am a B.Arch student from India.My bachelors degree was a 5 years program and I recently graduated.Well for my last two semesters we had to Intern and I chose to intern in two different places and my first Internship was in Malaysia and then another semester back in India. The kind of work I did was mostly just drafting and when I went took up Architecture as my profession that's not what I wanted to do. I wanted to design more, I want my designs to be out there.

I want to pursue a Masters degree in US, first to learn more and in a less theoretical school and secondly to have a chance in the work environment. I'd like to work in America for a few years before I return to set up my own firm.

I would like to know if M.Arch in America lets you be more creative and if a M.Arch there would help you land jobs in there. Also recently i've been very interested in Industrial Design, initially because I wanted to own an Architecture company and also design products. But, when I started doing more research about ID, it felt like there was more freedom of design in ID and it got me more interested.

Now, i'm confused between a Masters in Architecture or ID. But I would ultimately pick the more practical choice and I definitely don't want to stray away from Architecture because that's what i've always wanted to be, an Architect. But I would like to learn something new, something a little less restricting on design and yes, designing products has got me interested lately.

So, id like to know if I did a Masters program in ID there, would I still be able to work as an Architect there? Would they consider my B.Arch from India, a good portfolio and 2 years experience in the field? What are my chances of landing an Architect's job with the qualifications mentioned above.

It would be of great help if you could answer my questions or give me any sort of insight. Eagerly awaiting your response.

Thank You.

__________________

First, to learn more about graduate programs in architecture in the U.S., I suggest you visit these two websites -- that will provide you with a list of institutions.

http://www.naab.org

http://archschools.org

Certainly, obtaining a Master of Architecture in the U.S. will assist in gaining a position in the U.S.  Whether they are more creative will probably depend on the institution you choose.

Unfortunately, my expertise is not ID so I cannot be of much help, but you may wish to contact IDSA - Industrial Designers Society of America - http://www.idsa.org/

Given you have a BArch, you could eventually be licensed in the U.S., but it would be a different process than if you pursued your MArch in the U.S.  Visit NCARB - http://www.ncarb.org for details on licensure.

While I do not dispute your credentials, obtaining a work visa for the U.S. is challenging.  If you were to become a student in the U.S., there are work programs.

Best.

Foreign Education - EESA

Dr Architecture: I was study to bachelor degree of architecture in Mexico and a master degree in Puerto Rico of management and strategic leadership, I am interested in obtaining an license of architecture in E.E.U.U.  But I do not know how and where to make to examination and the syllabus and tutorial for the exam as NAAB , I live in Miami. Can you help me, can you give an orientation,I wish to work in your country. Thank you for your help. I wish you have a blessed and successful day.
___________

To become a licensed architect in most U.S. jurisdictions, you must accomplish three tasks - 1) education - professional NAAB degree, 2) experience - completion of IDP, and 3) examination - passing all portions of the ARE.

Now, if your degree is from another country, you may go thru a process called EESA with NAAB to evaluate your foreign education - https://www.eesa-naab.org/home.aspx - Visit this website and simply follow the process.

I do hope this helps.

Becoming an Architect: Opportunities Abound - 15 years later

Having just returned from the IDP Conference in Miami, FL this past weekend, I am inspired to bring back an article entitled, Becoming an Architect: Opportunities Abound, that I authored in 1998 and appeared in the January 1998 issue of Architectural Record.

As you may know, NCARB has been made adjustments to IDP over recent years and is also proposing some additional changes all in an effort to streamline the program and more encouraging to architectural graduates to become licensed.  

Currently, the process of becoming an architect is approximately 12 years according to NCARB by the Numbers (2014).  Does this length of time discourage aspiring architects?  Are fewer interns becoming licensed because of the process?

Regardless of the answer, the article I wrote back in 1998 inquired what "you" would do if a young person asked you about becoming an architect.  What would you do?

I will emphasize what I shared back then -- I will hope you gladly and strongly encourage them to pursue architecture and licensure as the education and experience prepares one for any number of careers in architecture and beyond.

Continue the conversation.

Lee W. Waldrep
@DocArchitecture


_____________

Becoming an Architect: Opportunities Abound

Lee W. Waldrep, Ph.D.

Architectural Record: Speak Out - January 1998 Issue

If a young person who wanted to be an architect sought your advice, what would you do?  Would you encourage them by sharing the positive aspects of the profession -- the creativity and variety plus the opportunities to improve the quality of life through affecting the built environment?  Or would you highlight the negatives -- five or seven years of schooling, a minimum three-year internship, a daunting licensing exam, and long hours with low pay.

As an educational administrator, I meet aspiring architects daily.  I encourage them wholeheartedly providing them with the resources and means they need to make an informed career choice.  I inform them that as an architect, opportunities abound because an architectural education is a springboard to a myriad of careers.

Statistics from the United States Department of Labor project that by 2005 the number of positions available to architects will increase by 25,000 to a total of 121,000.  National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) statistics indicate that by 2005 there will be almost 60,000 graduates vying for those 25,000 positions.  Based on these numbers, we should immediately shut down half of the degree programs in architecture before supply overwhelms demand.

But consider this:

•           According to 1991 American Institute of Architects (AIA) membership statistics, one-sixth (over 8,000) of the AIA members indicated that their primary professional activities were outside of an architectural firm or private practice.

•           In recent publications, both AIA and American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS) highlight career options for architectural graduates.  In Career Options: Opportunities through Architecture AIAS lists over 100 disciplines where architectural graduates can apply their skills.

As an architect, you may have colleagues who are earning their livelihood in related fields.  In fact, you may be one who has entered a field that builds upon your education as an architect.  Just as I have pursued a related career field, educational administration, there are many “architects” who are pursuing other career fields.  In the spring issue of its college newsletter, Texas A&M profiled two graduates who capitalized on their education as architects to become an Air Force instructor and sculptor. 

Anecdotal estimates suggest that only 50% of graduates enter the profession as licensed architects.  If this is true, we should not be worrying about closing down architecture programs.  Rather, we should be finding ways to show graduating students how their hard-won skills can contribute to success in a variety of fields.  Conversely, our schools and professional organizations should be networking with other professional and business groups, informing them of the broad, creative, problem-solving skills that trained architects possess.  One need not be a licensed, practicing architect to make a contribution with these skills.

One resource designed to help future “educated-as-architects” individual is Careers in Architecture: Choices, Pathways, Success.  Published by the AIA, this book devotes a full chapter to “looking beyond architecture,” highlighting careers in landscape architecture; interior design; lighting design; acoustical design; engineering; construction; urban and regional planning; architectural history, theory, and criticism; and environmental and behavioral research.  As the section concludes, “the bottom line is that the building enterprise is an exceedingly broad field; the possibilities are endless.”

So, the next time a young man or woman comes to you inquiring about becoming an architect, you can feel confident giving them your wholehearted encouragement.  We need more architects who are not architects.  As Leslie Kanes Weisman, of the New Jersey Institute of Technology recently said, “I am certain that architectural graduates who are in command of the powerful problem defining and problem solving skills of the designer, will be fully capable of designing their own imaginative careers by creating new definitions of meaningful work for architects that are embedded in the social landscape of human activity and life’s events.”