BA African Studies to Architecture

Hi Dr Architect....I need an urgent response to my question if you can...I an an African from Ghana who studied BA (African Studies) and graduated in 2011...I am currently serving in the United States Military and about to ETS...it is my dream to divert and do my Master of Architecture but with no background in architecture, is it possible? And if yes, how long is it going to take me...
______

 In the U.S., many graduate programs in architecture have programs targeted for individuals who have an undergraduate degree in another discipline like you.  The Master of Architecture degree programs may last between 3-4 years depending on the applicant.

One resource to research programs is the following:

https://studyarchitecture.com/

Dr. Architecture

Art History to Architecture

-->

Firstly, I just wanted to say that I am a huge fan of your blog. That said, I have a question about preparation for graduate school. I am currently a junior at UC Santa Barbara and I'm majoring in art history with an emphasis in architectural history. The program is not accredited so I will need to pursue a M.ARCH when I graduate. Besides maintaing a high GPA, what are some things that I can do in these next two years to help me prepare for admission to a graduate school? I want to go to a top architecture school so I would like to get a head start on whatever it is that you recommend.

__________

Thanks for being a fan! Also, congratulations on your desire to pursue architecture.

First, the program you are attending is not an architecture program and could not be accredited. With that said, you will wish to pursue a MArch (3-4 years) for those with a degree in a discipline other than architecture like your art history degree.

In addition to stellar academic performance, take courses in art/freehand drawing to create work for your portfolio. Also, connect with some faculty who will write your letters of recommendation. Finally, begin to research programs via the following:

NAAB - www.naab.org
ARCHSchools - www.archschools.org

To the extent possible, visit an architecture program to learn more about the process of applying and the curriculum of a MArch. There is not one directly nearby to Santa Barbara, but perhaps visit LA to visit USC, UCLA, or SCI-ARC.

Dr. Architecture

Biology to Architecture - Graduate Portfolio

I just stumbled upon your blog and I'm finding a lot of your comments very helpful as I try to apply to M.Arch programs. I thought I'd email you to gain some more insight on this process. My biggest concern is what exactly graduate programs are looking for in a portfolio. 

I do not have an architecture background but i did take an Intro to Architecture course this summer which gave me two projects I'm proud of but I know I need more. I'm looking into taking additional  classes before the deadlines but what would help boost my portfolio? Is it a basic drawing class? Should I try to find some computer graphic courses? My background is in biology and I am so hopelessly lost in this application process, any advice is much appreciated.
____________

Thanks for being an ARCHCareers fan.  You are the reason I do the blog; I am more than willing to address your questions below and future questions.

Also, I suggest you obtain the following

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

First, congrats on your desire to pursue architecture.  I think you will find it extremely rewarding.

The best source to determine what graduate programs are looking for in a portfolio is to contact them directly.  I would suggest contacting them by phone to learn firsthand on how they make decisions and how the portfolio is used.  Below is probably the best website for a list of the programs.

https://studyarchitecture.com/

Below are the portfolio requirements for a particular graduate program for their 3+ MArch; for applicants with an undergraduate program other than architecture, you do NOT need to submit architecture.  Instead, you submit work that is creative (see below).

I would NOT do a computer graphics course -- freehand drawing would be more helpful.

Portfolio Requirements:
A portfolio of student, extracurricular, and professional work is required of all applicants to the MARCH 2+ program. This portfolio should demonstrate the applicant’s creative abilities, skill level and talent in graphic communications. Applicants should include items demonstrating a latent interest in architecture. Submissions may include undergraduate or extracurricular design or drawing studio work, sketches, photos of architectural models, and digital models and drawings demonstrating abilities in architectural representation, drawing and sketching as well as the applicant’s abilities to use such graphic and design programs as Photoshop, In-Design, Illustrator, Sketchup, Sketchbook Pro, and Rhino.  Portfolio content should meet the following minimum requirements:

• Show at least eight [8] different items completed as a student or in extracurricular or personal study.
• Demonstrate an applicant’s ability in graphic analysis, conceptualization, and development as well as and final products for each included item. A short narrative must accompany each entry.
• Illustrate abilities in two- and three-dimensional thinking
• Demonstrate attention to detail as appropriate for the item included

To receive full consideration, any professional work should include a statement from the employer indicating the extent of the work performed by the applicant. All examples of work should state whether the project was completed individually or by a group. For projects completed by a group, the applicant must include a statement outlining the number of group members and the applicant’s responsibilities as part of the group.

If you are near any of these cities, you can visit schools directly.

College Fairs - Fall 2017 - Boston, Chicago, Philadelphia, New York

https://studyarchitecture.com/events/

Finally, I am more than willing to create a email exchange or even set up a phone call it that helps.

Keep in touch and best.

Dr. Architecture

Civil engineering to Architecture

I am a Civil Engineering student currently studying in India. Upon my completion of my undergraduate degree, I wanted to do my masters in Architecture. I wanted to inquire if Universities in South Korea or Singapore offer Master in Architecture programs to students without a bachelor in Architecture.

I needed some advice on this, if this is the right move for me to follow to get a job in the States and if this change in profession will effect my career in any way.

Thank you for your time.

___________________

 

First, please understand that my expertise is on becoming an architect in the U.S.

To determine if the universities you list allow students to enter their graduate programs without a bachelor of architecture, I would suggest you contact them directly.

Many institutions in the U.S. would allow you to enter their master of architecture with your civil engineering degree but it would take between 3-4 years to complete.

If your longer term goal is to pursue a position in the U.S., you may wish to consider attending your graduate studies in the U.S.

https://studyarchitecture.com/

The above listed website is a great resource to learn about architecture programs in the U.S.

Best.

Dr. Architecture

Too late to become an architect

I hope you find time to respond to my question on pursuing this career. I have been working as an Energy Advisor for close to 10 years now since this is what I studied in university up to Graduate level.
I have had this passion for Architecture for years but this was suppressed early on since I was required to study and excel in a science career. I realize that I must change career and pursue my dream. I'm now 41 . Is it too late to pursue my career? I'm Kenyan living in Kenya but wish to pursue the program in a school in the US. At this age will I have the stamina to take the classes and exams? My last question is if I have to start at entry level after studies. My plan would be to get some practical experience in the US then return to Kenya to start a practice.

I look forward to hearing from you.
Kind regards,
__________

In my opinion, it is NOT too late to study architecture.  Philip Johnson, one of the greatest architects in the 20th c. did not become an architect until the age of 39.

You will need to decide if you have the stamina to take the classes and exams. 

Given your previous education, it would take 3-4 years to complete a graduate degree in architecture.  For the U.S., you would need approximately 2-3 years of professional experience before you are eligible to take the A.R.E.  Thus, it would take a minimum of 6-8 years before you were an architect.

Remember, my expertise is in becoming an architect in the U.S., not Kenya.

Best.

Dr. Architecture

Questions on pursuing Master of Architecture

Hello sir , I am from India. I have read your suggestions  in architecture  career thought to contact you personally to learn  more. I have  completed my bachelor of engineering (chemical engineering) in India in 2012. Now I am 27. I want to pursue master of architecture because I would like to learn and I want to make my career in this.  Can you please tell me what is the  process to get an admission in the school? Will I be a licensed architect after completing Master program? What is portfolio designing? I have no basics in architecture. Will that become a problem?
_________

Thanks for contacting me and your question.

First, I must share that my expertise is in the process of becoming an architect in the U.S. 

To learn the process of admission, I will suggest you review the websites of graduate programs in architecture and consider contacting them directly for more details.

A great website to review graduate programs in the U.S. and Canada is -- http://studyarchitecture.com/

In its simplest terms, you will need to submit the following (may vary by program).

Statement of Purpose

Portfolio

Transcripts

Three letters of recommendation

GRE (if required)

TOEFL (for international applicants)

In the U.S. the licensure of architects is maintained by the individuals states/jurisdictions; for most states, an individual seeking licensure must meet the requirements of 1) education, 2) experience (AXP), and 3) examination (ARE).  Thus, you are NOT a licensed architect upon completion of your graduate program.

As for portfolio design, again, contact the graduate programs for insights.  Plus, you may wish to review the following website.

http://portfoliodesign.com/

Remember, your portfolio does NOT need to be architecturally focused as your background is NOT in architecture.  It needs to be more about creativity -- artwork.

Thanks! 

Dr. Architecture

Marketing to Architecture - How to Prepare

I obtained your email from the ARCHCareers Blog. I am currently in the beginning of the research phase for pursuing a Master in Architecture. Like many of the people who wrote on the post, I have a bachelors degree in an unrelated subject (marketing) and would love some insights on what I can do to prepare to apply to programs. 

I have admired the architecture field from a young age--come from a line of developers/designers. I believe I have an innate ability when it comes to architecture and design, but I have never formally explored it. 

Before I further pursue the direction of a career, I'd like to become more knowledgeable. Do you have any recommendations on classes I should take or books I should read that would help prepare me and build my portfolio? I live in San Francisco and have easy access to the city college.

I am looking forward to hearing back to you and discussing further!

Thank you!

_________________

Thanks for contacting me with questions on becoming an architect.  First, I would suggest you continue following my blog and obtain the book, Becoming an Architect.

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

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

First, do know that you can apply directly to a Master of Architecture degree program with your undergraduate degree even though it is in an unrelated field.  Typically, these degree will be from 3-4 years.  The two best websites to research potential programs are the following: 

StudyArchitecture.com

http://studyarchitecture.com

NAAB

http://www.naab.org

Next, to best prepare for applying to these programs is to visit 1-2 of them even if they are ones you do not wish to attend.  The programs will provide you insight on the curriculum and the application process.  For example, you MAY need to take calculus or physics as part of the prerequisites.  As well, you will learn what needs to be in your portfolio -- creative work.  You may consider attending an ART course to develop material for your portfolio or a summer program --

Many are for high school students but some are for YOU.

http://archcareers.blogspot.com/2017/02/summer-programs-in-architecture-2017.html

 

As a general connection to architecture, you may wish to simply follow some architecture blogs, etc.

http://archinect.com

https://architizer.com

If possible, try to connect with an architect in your region; contact the AIA SF chapter for possible referrals.

As always, I would welcome to continue the conversation on your journey.  Let me know if you have more questions.

Best.

Dr. Architecture

Industrial Design to Architecture

Hi I am studying industrial design. 

Is it possible for me to take the master degree in architecture? If yes, after taking the master degree in architecture do i become an official architect? Am i going to be able do to everything that an architect can? 

Please inform me, thank you!
________________________

Please note that my expertise is in becoming an architect in the U.S.

With your degree in industrial design, you may certainly pursue the NAAB accredited professional Master of Architecture (3-4 years) at any number of U.S. institutions that offer it.  

With the Master of Architecture, you will have completed the education portion of becoming an architect.  You would still need to complete APX - experience and pass the ARE - examination to become an architect per the state / jurisdiction requirements.

I suggest you pursue the following websites for more details on the process of becoming an architect.

StudyArchitecture.com

http://studyarchitecture.com

NAAB

http://www.naab.org

NCARB

https://www.ncarb.org

Dr. Architecture

French and English to Architecture

I hope that all is well by you!  I am hoping to pursue a Master of Architecture, though I have little academic experience in the field.  I have a Bachelor of Arts in French and English from Amherst College and a few years of experience in communications, one of which was spearheading the marketing department of a small residential design firm in San Francisco.  

 

I am wondering, are there any reputable programs you could recommend that are receptive to students pivoting from another kind of career?  I, unfortunately, do not have many college-level math or art classes to my name, though I am happy to enroll in a few this fall if need be. I am most interested in sustainable design and institutional projects.

Any advice you have is much appreciated!

________

 

Thanks for reaching out to me.  First, I will suggest you obtain a copy of Becoming an Architect as it will answer this question and others as you become an architect.

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

The two best sources for potential colleges for studying architecture are the following:

NAAB National Architectural Accrediting Board
http://www.naab.org/architecture-programs/school-search/

Study Architecture
http://studyarchitecture.com/

To become an architect, you will need to accomplish three tasks - 1) education), 2) experience, and 3) examination.  For education, he will need to complete the a professional degree in architecture that is accredited by NAAB.

There are three degrees - 1) Bachelor of Architecture (5 years), 2) Master of Architecture following a pre-professional degree (BS or BA in Architecture) (6 years) and 3) Doctor of Architecture (Univ of Hawaii - 7 years). 

As you have a BA degree, you may pursue the Master of Architecture (a variation of #2) for those that have a degree in another discipline.  I cannot say for certain, but there are at least 50-60 programs -- see either of the websites listed above.  I typically do not recommend programs because there are so many variables, but would be glad to touch base after you have developed a list.

Depending on the program to which you apply, you may need to have calculus as a prerequisite; as well, you may wish to take ART classes to help you develop your portfolio.

Plus, I would be MORE than pleased to answer additional questions as needed.

Also, I would suggest you pursue a summer program -- this summer if possible.  Each year, I compile a list of the programs. 

http://archcareers.blogspot.com/2017/02/summer-programs-in-architecture-2017.html

Again, stay in touch.

Becoming an Architect - Undergraduate in another Discipline

I was recently doing some research online about studying architecture and came across your blog. I can't seem to find a straight answer to my question which is: can you become an architect with a bachelor's degree in something that has nothing to do with architecture, and if so how? I would imagine that one could study anything during undergraduate years, and then apply for a master's architecture program. Is this correct? Also, what type of course work should someone enrolled in a master's architecture program expect?
Thank you very much in advance!
______________

My expertise is in the process of becoming an architect in the U.S.; as such, my comments/answers are from that perspective.

To become an architect for more jurisdictions in the U.S., one needs to have 1) education, 2) experience, and 3) examination.

To meet the education standard, one must possess an accredited degree in architecture - a BArch, MArch, or DArch.  For the Master of Architecture, one can pursue what is typically a 3-4 year graduate degree following an undergraduate degree in most any discipline.

So, what you state below - I would imagine that one could study anything during undergraduate years, and then apply for a master's architecture program. Is this correct? - is correct.

As for what to pursue as an undergraduate, it will vary depending on the individual.  It is common that the degree would be related to design and architecture - civil engineering, fine arts, landscape architecture, etc.  But it could be completely unrelated - English, finance, etc.

Ultimately, I would suggest you and others pursue an undergraduate in which you will enjoy and do well academically to allow for graduate admission.  As well, most graduate programs require a portfolio for admission -- thus, take courses in fine art and design that will allow you to produce materials for a portfolio.

Best. Dr. Architecture

Film and Media Studies to Architecture

First off, thank you for all your insight and advice about architecture. I really appreciate the time you take to help others others online. By reading some of your past posts, it helps to know that I am not alone in the situation about pursuing a career change. A little about me: I recently graduated with a undergraduate degree in Film and Media studies, but I started out as an intended architecture student during my first two years of college. Now, I have decided that I would be happy to do filmmaking on the side, and would like to commit to becoming an architect. Having taken time off from actively learning architecture, I plan to take some drafting, Revit, and CAD classes at a local community college next year in hopes to build my portfolio, and then send in my applications in Fall 2015. Do you have any other recommended architecture classes I should take?

In order to get into a masters program, I understand that I need a solid portfolio, recommendation letters, along with GREs scores and a statement of intent. Do you have any other advice on how to build a strong portfolio/application for students who did not come from a previous architecture background? Also, do you have any advice for getting architecture internships? This has been difficult because almost all all architecture firms require some sort of Bachelor's degree in architecture, which I do not have.

Thank you for your time and I hope to hear from you soon.

_____________

Given that you have your undergraduate degree in film and media studies, you are eligible for applying to a Master of Architecture (3-4 years).  As for classes to take, I would suggest you contact the architecture programs to which you are applying for insight.  

On the surface, I would NOT take drafting, Revit or CAD classes.  Instead, take drawing or art courses that will benefit your portfolio that you will need to submit with your application.  You may also consider taking a summer program -- Some may also require calculus, physics, and/or architecture history.

http://archcareers.blogspot.com/2012/04/summer-programs-for-adults.html

As for your portfolio, consider http://www.portfoliodesign.com for assistance and ideas.  Also, search portfolios on ISSUU http://issuu.com/ for ideas.  Remember, you do not need to submit architecture projects - a challenge may be to submit your creative film in a two-dimensional portfolio.

As for obtaining an internship, contact firms with your skill set -- film.  Perhaps, some firms would appreciate your making films for posting on their website, etc. 

Just some ideas.

Marketing to Architecture/Exhibit Design

Hello, I am a senior marketing major at Howard University in Washington DC.  I currently work as a marketing intern and museum assistant at an art museum and I am interested in pursuing a masters in architecture to then do civic architecture focusing on museums and exhibition design.  Do you have any suggestions or recommendations on how I can gain more experience and make that transition to museum design, as well as, who to get in contact with for information about exhibition design and gaining more experience
without a design degree?
_______________

First, congrats on your interest in architecture.  As you are in the midst of completing your undergraduate degree in marketing, you are certainly eligible to apply to any number of Master of Architecture degree programs across the country.  In most cases, you will take between 3-4 years to complete the degree.  To start the research process, consider visiting the following: 

ARCHSchools.org - http://www.archschools.org

NAAB - http://www.naab.org

Both will provide you a list of the programs with more detailed information along with contact information.  In the DC region, you may consider UMaryland, CatholicU among others.  Unfortunately, Howard does NOT have the graduate degree, but you should consider taking a course from the School of Architecture at Howard next spring to generate material for your portfolio.  All graduate programs require a portfolio regardless of your background.

To gain experience, touch base with your internship supervisor for ideas.  Visit the National Building Museum and others to gain exposure.  I did find this group.

http://name-aam.org/

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.

Neuroscience to Architecture - Path?

I have a bachelor of science degree in neuroscience and I wanted to know if it was possible to pursue a masters in architecture with that degree. Would I have to go back to finish undergraduate coursework or can I jump? 

________________

As you have the equivalent of an undergraduate degree (BA or BS), you may directly pursue a Master of Architecture (typically 3-4 years) for those that have a degree in another discipline. I do not have an exact number, but about 50-60 institutions offer such a degree in the U.S.

NAAB is the National Architectural Accrediting Board -- http://www.naab.org. They accredit architecture programs.

Thanks!

Accounting to Architecture

I am currently an undergrad accounting major at Temple University and will be graduating this spring. I stumbled upon your ARCHCareers blog after searching "master of architecture for non architects." 

While I've been on winter break, I've been thinking about my plans after graduation and what career or further education I want to pursue. While I enjoy accountancy, I have this nagging thought about not opening up and challenging myself to a discipline that I find more interesting and fulfilling. I originally planned to major in civil engineering and definitely thought about architecture as well, but I never gave myself a chance and went with accounting.

I saw on this post of yours that MArch programs accept applications from people who have an undergrad degree in another discipline. I have never taken any undergrad or high school architecture class and I don't have a portfolio. Ultimately, I have a few questions about all of this:

• If I am seriously interesting in an MArch degree, where should I start?
• Am I in over my head? Have you heard/seen similar stories of non-architects pursuing architecture this late?
• How did you know architecture was the right career for you?
• Is coming from an undergrad business background beneficial in pursuing an MArch degree?

Thank you so much for reading this email. I truly appreciate the time you've given me to read and respond to my inquiries and curiosity during my period of uncertainty. I hope to hear from you soon and have a safe and happy new year! Take care.

Best,

____________

Congrats on finding my blog on becoming an architect.  Below are some thoughts to get you started should you decide to pursue it further.

Where to start - As you are attending Temple, start by visiting the architecture program on your own campus.  Formally meet with faculty and students -- shadow some classes and consider taking a drawing course to start.  You also live in Philly, a great city for architecture -- get outside (when warmer) and look at the architecture.  Consider attending a summer program to jumpstart your interest.

Head - You are now over your head.  In fact, more and more students are like you - starting college in another major and discovering architecture.  You are not late.  Philip Johnson, one of the most famous 20th c. architects did not become one until the age of 39.

Right Career - You may never know for sure, but it is more than a job - it is a career and lifestyle.  That is why you should talk with current students at Temple -- visit Penn.

Business Background - It can be, but ultimately, the portfolio and your academics are probably most beneficial.

Consider obtaining the book, Becoming an Architect, 2nd Ed.

Best.  Do contact me with further questions.

Selecting an Architecture Program

My daughter is a high school junior with career plans to become a licensed, certified Architect. As we have been visiting colleges, it looks like there are many different programs, but not all meet the requirements to allow her to take the necessary tests. Either that , or some take much longer than others to reach their endpoint, or get there in very different ways.  At some of the places we visited, we have not been convinced that even after completing their 5 or 6 years of training that Julia's requirements to move forward in the certification process would be met.

How do we evaluate programs to be sure we are in the right place? Is there a list of acceptable accredited programs we should work from? Any guidance you can provide will be very valuable as we try to find the most effective program somewhere in the mid-Atlantic, New England,  or East Coast area for her to be in for the next 5 or 6 years. Thank you.
___________

First, I will suggest you obtain the book, Becoming an Architect, 2nd Edition as it outlines the entire process from high school to licensure.  With that said, I will provide answers to your questions.  We may also wish to touch base via the phone.

To become an architect in most states, an individual must have the following: 1) accredited professional degree by NAAB, 2) completion of IDP - Intern Development Program, and 3) pass the ARE - Architect Registration Exam.

As for degrees, NAAB accredits the following: 1) BArch - five year program, 2) MArch - typically 2-3 years following a BSAS pre-professional degree, 2b) MArch - typically 3-4 years following a BA/BS in a field other than architecture, and 4) DArch - only available from Hawaii.

What you have visited may be pre-professional degrees that require further education with the MArch.

To see the list of accredited programs, visit the NAAB website - http://www.naab.org. Another sources isARCHSchools.org - it requires a login, but is free.

To evaluate programs, I strongly encourage her to visit the programs and have a list of needs. 

Also, I would strongly encourage her to attend a summer program to experience it firsthand prior to college.  Attached is the preliminary list for Summer 2014.  The final list is available in late January.

Do let me know if you have any additional questions.  Best.

Interior Architecture to Architecture

Hello Dr. Architect

I have been in the United States for two years. In my country I received certificate in Interior Architecture , which is not a degree here.I just can evaluate two classes.Now I am in a community college and taking ESL courses. As you can see I would like to continue my education in same major which Woodbury University offers that in Bachelor degree.And maybe later continue the same major in UCLA in Master program. As a new student what would you recommend to me in educational, financial and career perspective.And Also, Should  interior architecture has Accreditation? What is it, is it NAAB?

Thanks for your time.

_______________

As you do not have the equivalent of an undergraduate degree (BA or BS), you may wish to consider pursuing an undergraduate architecture degree (preprofessional) with later pursuing a Master of Architecture.  

Or, you could pursue the five-year professional Bachelor of Architecture.

Which you pursue depends on you and your desire.

NAAB is the National Architectural Accrediting Board -- http://www.naab.org.  They accredit architecture programs, not interior architecture.

Best!

Graduate Study Options and Funding

I came across your blog while searching for graduate programs to apply for fall 2014. I am architect from India. I completed my B.Arch degree(5 years) from India last year 2012. I have a year and a half work experience in an international firm with head office in Mumbai, India. I have worked on various national and international projects. 

Now I want to pursue higher studies in architecture with funding. I am really confused which program I should go for. Professional degree or Research? I want a program which provides funding. Also I want to practice in professional field after my studies. Is there an option to practice in professional field after going in researched based program? Also does professional programs like M.Arch, MUD etc provide funding or assistantship? I have given GRE and TOEFL. Given below is the list of universities I want to aim for:

ASU

NEU

SIU Carbondale

U Mass

V tech

U Houston

UT Austin

UIUC

U Mich

U Cin

Please suggest if there are any other as per my requirement. What should I go for M.Arch, MUD, MLA,MS in arch? Also let me know about the job opportunities. I will be really thankful to you if you can help me. Kindly, give your feed back and help me so that I can start applying for the courses. 

__________

Given that you have a Bachelor of Architecture, you may consider applying to U.S. institutions and pursue either the professional Master of Architecture or any number of post-professional degrees.

If your desire is to eventually becoming licensed in the U.S., I would suggest you pursue the NAAB professional Master of Architecture which is required for licensure.

If that is not important (licensure in the U.S.), then consider pursuing a post-professional degree in a subject of your strongest interest.  

As for funding, you would need to be in touch directly with each of the programs you list via their website or direct contact.  Most graduate programs have merit-based funding in the form of fellowships, scholarships or teaching assistantships.  You want to learn the process of applying and what makes for a worthwhile application.

A good source for the list of programs is -- http://www.archschools.org --

Best!

Undergraduate Major if not Architecture?

Hello Dr. Arch,

I am going to be a student at Rutgers University. I'm very interested in going into the Architecture field but my school does not offer the program. I have to stay at my school due to financial stability but I was wondering if there's another pathway for me to become an architect. I was thinking about doing either Civil Engineering or Landscape Architecture at my school and then applying to masters and doctorate programs for Architecture. My other choice is to study Psychology/Exercise Science and try to apply to the same programs, since I heard some requirements do not require a pre-professional degree. Your opinion would really help me. Thank you.

_________

Given that you need to stay at Rutgers for financial reasons, you should pursue an undergraduate degree that suits you best and maximizes success.  Granted civil engineering and landscape architecture are related to architecture, but will you do well academically in these majors?

You should pursue the major in which you will do the best!  Of course, with that said, you should seek to take art/drawing courses along the way as you will need to submit a portfolio as part of your graduate application to architecture.

In addition, contact some graduate programs in architecture to which you think you will apply and gain some insight from them as to the degree and courses you might take.

I also would not rule out transferring to an institution that offers architecture. 

Best