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

Architecture Uncensored: The License Dilemma

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Last night, I had the pleasure of serving on a panel entitled “The License Dilemma” sponsored the by the Emerging Architects Committee of AIA DC.  Joining me was Adam Schwartz, AIA, a recently licensed architect and Associate at HGA Architects and Engineers and the Washington DC Licensing Advisor and Harry Falconer, Jr., AIA, Director of Experience + Education at NCARB.  Moderating the panel was Elizabeth Kinkel, Associate AIA of View Dynamic Glass. …

The panel started with an introductory discussion on Integrated Path to Architectural Licensure (IPAL).  As listed on the NCARB website, IPAL provides students the opportunity to complete licensure requirements while earning their degrees. 
 

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However, the thrust of the discussion both from us as panelists and the audience, mostly emerging professionals, was on the value of licensure and how WE (the profession) could do more to ensure architectural graduates would pursue licensure.  Harry relayed statistics from NCARB by the Numbers that stated that the average age of an architect becoming licensed was 32 years of age.  With recent changes in IDP (soon to be AXP), the timeframe from graduation to licensure is decreasing.

Some of the discussion was on what architecture programs (schools) could do; as will be the case with IPAL, schools might provide or encourage students to gain experience during their formal education making them more valuable to firms upon graduation.  But also, many in the audience thought schools could provide more direct knowledge on practice.  However, I pointed out that our system of becoming an architect includes knowledge from education and knowledge from experience. 

Unfortunately, some firms are not equipped to “teach” their employees like a hospital might do with aspiring doctors.  For firms, it is a business proposition – my answer to firms is the “your people” are your most important asset.  One member of the audience specifically asked – what could WE do to help firms more value their staff as they work towards licensure; no one had an immediate answer.

Mr. Falconer furthered the conversation with the notion that an architectural should pursue licensure not for their current position, but for their next one.  Adam relayed the sense of accomplishment when he had achieved the title of architect.

Additional discussion centered on those architectural graduates that pursue an alternate path and not licensure.  We know that these individuals are NOT architects (in the legal sense), but are they are part of the profession.

Overall, the event was a success in terms of attendance, but more importantly in terms of conversation; attendees left with much to consider as each pursues licensure.  I am pleased to have been a part of the panel; I am sure this is not an exact summary, but it is a start.

Best.

Becoming licensed in the U.S.

I am an Architect ,completed my B. Arch from India in 1993, registered in Council of Architecture and Indian institute of Architecture. I have been working from 1994 in India and from 2008 I have been working in USA based firms who have offices in India. I am a LEED AP from USGBC also.

I was  staying in USA for 2 years 2011 and 2012 and was working as an Intern for 4 months in an architectural firm. Then I came back to India and working in a USA based firm , but again going back to USA (Connecticut) this year. Please advise me how to go for licensing. All these years of working will count for IDP hours or not?

Thanks and Regards

___________

The best resource for you is NCARB (http://www.ncarb.org) if you wish to learn about the process of becoming licensed in the U.S.

I am not the expert, but they have a program calledn BEFA - Broadly Experienced Foreign Architect --

http://www.ncarb.org/en/Getting-an-Initial-License/Foreign-Architects.aspx

The above website outlines the process.

As for your question related to IDP.  Your work in these firms will NOT count towards IDP unless you had already applied for a NCARB Council Record and tracked your IDP.  IDP has a six month rule -- you must record your work experience at least once every six months.

Again, visit NCARB for details on IDP.

http://www.ncarb.org/Experience-Through-Internships.aspx

I do hope all this helps in becoming licensed in the U.S.

From India to St. Louis, MO

I am an architect and environmental planner with three years of professional experience in India. I recently relocated to St. Louis, USA. I would like to know if I can work in US as well. For that do I need to register for NCARB (or any other for architecture as well as planning) in US? Also, my past professional experience involved research work on urban development studies (like climate change and cities, green building etc.) Are there any such organizations in St. Louis which undertake such researches?

It would be great if you could guide me on this.

Thank you and regards.

____________

To work in the U.S., you would need to confirm the labor laws; I am not an expert, but it is my understanding that you must either be a U.S. citizen or have a permit to work.

With respect to being an architect, I suggest you contact NCARB - http://www.ncarb.org - to learn more.  As you are an architect in India, you will need to follow the process of becoming an architect in the U.S.  Aside from NCARB, contact the state department of professional regulation in the state of Missouri to learn the requirements of the state.

As for your research, I am sorry I cannot be of direct help.  You may wish to contact the School of Architecture at Washington University.

Sorry I cannot be of more assistance.

Best.

Ready to take ARE?

Dr. Architecture,

I have six years of working experience in an architecture office, AA degree of architecture from  community college, then went to a 5 yr. accredited architecture school but did not get the BS degree because I still have 2 G.E classes to full-fill. Now that i'm working full time and because of my financial reason I couldn't be able to go back to take the classes. Do my school credits and 6 years experience enough to qualify to take the exams?

_________

Depending on the jurisdiction, you need two tasks to be completed to be eligible for the ARE.  You should definitely consult NCARB - http://www.ncarb.org --

Basically, you need either the NAAB accredited degree or an education that meets the NCARB Education Standard.  Next, you need to have completed IDP Intern Development Program - the experience under the supervision of an architect.

From what you have shared, you appear to be short by two classes of your degree. With regards to your work experience, it is hard to say because you do not mention IDP.  If possible, contact NCARB or the IDP Educator Coordinator at your institution.

Best.

EESA Foreign Degree

Can you please tell me licensing procedure to work as an architect in USA.  I have heard that B.Arch/M.Arch degree from India is not sufficient.for that there would be another procedures by AIA.  If you know any details regarding this kindly help me.
_________

In the U.S., an individual needs to fulfill three requirements for most jurisdictions - 1) education, 2) experience, and 3) examination.

For 1) education, a BArch/MArch from another country such as India will not serve as an automatic equivalent, but you can submit your credentials to EESA (https://www.eesa-naab.org/home.aspx) to determine that your education is equivalent to the NCARB Education Standard.  In most cases, it will not be totally equivalent, but EESA will share what you need to complete.

After education, you must complete IDP - Intern Development Program to fulfill the experience component.  Once you have met education and IDP, you are eligible to sit for the ARE - Architect Registration Examination.  For details on IDP and ARE, visit NCARB - http://www.ncarb.org.

I hope this is helpful.

EESA Becoming an Architect

Dear Dr. Architecture

 

First in first: I’ve to say that I’m glad that I found your blog because is quite interesting and exhaustive and when I started to read all your answers I understood that is a matter of heart!. Then, I bought your book and I found a lot of answers, interesting comments and point of view about our profession, about how to do and the best way to do it , about architects with different experience...but my questions are still there without an answer...

 

I am a foreign italian architect. I have been reading for the last six month everything about the NCARB, the NAAB, the EESA but I have to confess that I’m still confused and I’m not so sure the best path for me to do. Can you help me?.
My credentials are:

- a Bachelor Degree in Architecture (Architettura U.E. – Università degli Studi di Roma “La Sapienza”): it is a five year degree with 300 credits (150 US credits)

- a Master II Level Degre (Master P.A.R.E.S. – Master in Architectural Design for the Recovery of Historical Buildings and Public Spaces): it is an one year degree with 60 credits (30 US credits)

- and to conclude, I’m a Licensed Architect (My Proffessional Association: The Order of Roman Architects: Albo dell’ “Ordine degli Architetti Pianificatori Paesaggisti e Conservatori di Roma e Provincia”, member since 2011)

 

What should I do to start my process of accreditation?  I read that for a Licensed Architect the best thing to do is the BEA/BEFA Program but I don’t have seven years of experience like a Licensed Architect, but just two...and even if I have five plus years of experience, before, I worked while I was studying to present my board test.

 

While the process of accreditation goes ahead and/or before I present all the documents, can I start to submit the IDP hours?! Is it possible?!

Do you think there is a better way to do?  I am reall confused about all the process and I’m having some problems with the University of Rome due to the certified Academic Course Description so I’ll really apreciate if you can give some advices and how can I proceed to make my path easiest.

Than you, again, for your kindness. Best regards,

_______________

Before I answer your questions directly, allow me to provide an overview of the formal process of becoming an architect in the U.S.  To become an architect in the U.S., you need to accomplish three tasks:

1) Education - For most, this is accomplished through obtaining a NAAB accredited professional degree in the U.S.  As this can only be accomplish through a U.S. institution, NCARB (http://www.ncarb.org) does allow an individual to have their foreign education evaluated against the NCARB Education Standard; this process is done via EESA - Evaluating Education Services for Architects (https://www.eesa-naab.org).

What is the NCARB Educational Standard?

The NCARB Educational Standard is established by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards. NCARB determines the minimum number of credits which are required for coursework taken in five major categories and sub-categories within each major category. The five categories are (1) General Education, (2) History, Human Behavior and Environment; (3) Design, (4) Technical Systems and (5) Practice. 

The Education Standard further stipulates that an applicant must have a minimum of 160 semester credits, overall. Please refer to http://www.ncarb.org/en/~/media/Files/PDF/Guidelines/EDU_Guidelines.pdf

2) Experience - To satisfy this task, one my fulfill IDP (Intern Development Program - http://www.ncarb.org/idp2); basically, you must work under the supervision of an architect for a period of time (5600 hours) gaining experience in different training categories.

3) Examination - For the last task, you must take and pass all seven exams of the ARE (Architect Registration Exam - (http://www.ncarb.org/en/ARE.aspx).

With the above stated, your first step is to pursue EESA - having your foreign education evaluated.  I would suggest you read the NCARB Education Standard (see above listing).  It is likely that you will be deficient in an area requiring you to take an additional course or two.

You may wish to contact EESA for more direct answers to your questions.

However, I think that you can start your NCARB Council Record to begin recording your IDP Experience - you will be limited to how much time can be under a foreign architect (again review the materials listed above).

At minimum, if you have more questions contact NCARB or the registration board of the state in which you wish to become licensed.

I wish you the best.

Becoming licensed across borders.

Dear Dr. Architect,

I came across your blog while researching M. Arch programs in US, UK and EU. I am currently a B.Arch. student from India and will receive my National Architecture license from the Council of Architecture, India soon after graduation.

I would like to work as an architect in the countries mentioned above and it would be really helpful if you could provide me some information on the licensing and education requirements for international graduates to find work there.  Also how long would it take before I can start work there? 

P.S : There are a number of ‘Star-architects’ who design projects across the globe. How do they get approved to work if they are licensed only in their native countries?  

______________

For information on licensing within the U.S., the best source is NCARB - National Council for Architectural Registration Boards - http://www.ncarb.org

As your degree is from India, you will need to follow EESA to have your education evaluated; of course, if you pursue the Master of Architecture (NAAB) accredited, you will meet the education standard.

EESA

http://www.ncarb.org/Certification-and-Reciprocity/EESA.aspx

As for U.K., I suggest you be in touch with RIBA.

RIBA 

http://www.architecture.com/EducationAndCareers/BecomingAnArchitect/Becominganarchitect.aspx#.UeFQsxYTHzI

As for the EU, I am not sure, but I am pretty sure that each country has its own requirements.

P.S. Question - Architects who are not licensed in a particular country or jurisdiction partner with a local architect of record who is licensed in the local jurisdiction.

Best.

Military to Architecture

Good afternoon air I am currently in the United States Marine Corps, I am about to get out and want to go to college and become an architect. I was wondering what would be the best way to do this. What college to go to and what classes to take.

Thank you or your time I look forward to hearing back from you soon.
________________

Congrats on your interest in pursuing architecture as a career field.

First, I would suggest you read previous posts on the blog - http://archcareers.blogspot.com --.  Next, I would obtain a copy of Becoming an Architect, 2nd ed. as it outlines the entire process of becoming an architect.

To become an architect, you need to accomplish three tasks 1) education - NAAB accredited professional degree in architecture,; 2) experience - complete the requirements of IDP; and 3) exam - pass the ARE.

As there are over 125 programs in architecture, I make it a point not to recommend one over another; it is your job to research the programs to determine which is the best fit for you.  Typically, you will have courses in studio, technology, structures, construction, and general education courses but it varies from program to program.

I wish you the best and do contact me again if you have any questions.

NAAB Candidate Program

If a school has a candidate accreditation will i be allowed to take the ARE exam if i graduate before the program reaches its full accreditation? 
_________________

To be eligible to take the ARE will depend on the state in which you are seeking licensure; you need more than just an accredited degree.

Typically, if an architecture program has been offered candidate status, the program is meeting the standards set by NAAB and is expected to obtain full accreditation when it graduates its first class.  Programs time their gaining accreditation to when the first class graduates.

However, as stated below - a graduate from a candidate program is considered to have met the NCARB Education Standards for purposes of meeting the Education standard.

Before attending a candidate program, I would ask questions related to their timeline on gaining accreditation.

http://www.ncarb.org/Studying-Architecture/Difference-Between-NAAB-Accredited-And-Non.aspx

In order to satisfy the education requirement for NCARB certification, you must hold a professional degree in architecture from a program accredited* by NAAB, a professional degree in architecture from a program accredited* by the Canadian Architectural Certification Board (CACB), or a CACB-certified professional degree in architecture from a Canadian university.

NAAB is the only agency authorized to accredit professional degree programs in architecture in the United States. Although graduation from a NAAB-accredited program does not guarantee registration, accreditation is intended to verify that accredited programs achieve education standards established by NAAB in collaboration with the four collateral organizations—theAmerican Institute of Architects (AIA), the American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS), the Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture (ACSA), and NCARB.

* The program must have been accredited no more than two years after the graduation date.

AIA/NCARB Survey

Below is the beginning part of an article recently posted on the AIA website concerning the 2012 AIA / NCARB website; it truly has great insight on the picture of current emerging professionals. If you are on the path to becoming an architect, consider reading -- AIA/NCARB Survey Shows Rosier Picture for Emerging Professionals More interns are employed and getting licensed than during the throes of the recession By Jennifer Riskus

In 2010, the AIA/NCARB Internship and Career Survey of emerging professionals took a snapshot of young designers during a time of intense economic contraction, when they were often the first to suffer. But in the two years since, emerging professionals have begun experiencing a rebound, with higher employment levels, more young designers getting licensed, and any remaining unemployment becoming, in most cases, mercifully short. The 2012 Internship and Career Survey, commissioned jointly by the AIA and NCARB, and conducted by The Rickinson Group, contains a wealth of information on the experiences of emerging professionals as they go through IDP, take the ARE, become licensed, and obtain their first jobs. This survey has been completed five times since 2003, most recently inthe fourth quarter of 2012.

IDP Six Month Rule

I have been gaining work experience in a architectural firm for close to nine years in lieu of a degree and I would like to start pursuing my license. I read through NCARB that a six month only window is allowed.

1) Is it still possible for me to back track my time acquired at this point through IDP if I never started recording my progress through there online system? 

2) Will all my work experience prior to six months ago be considered void under there current guidelines?

3) And if so, what should I do to become qualified for the examination process at this point in my career?

Thank you for reading! And I look forward to your suggestions on my next possible steps regarding my future.

_____________

Given that you questions are related to IDP, a program of NCARB, you would be best served to contact them directly (customer service@ncarb.org) or your state IDP Coordinator (see below).

As I understand IDP, you will NOT be able to back your experience, but confirm with NCARB directly.  And yes, any work prior to six months from when you enroll with a NCARB Council Record will not be counted towards IDP.

As for what you should do, I am not sure because you do not share your educational background, etc.  You may wish to contact again the state IDP Coordinator or your state's department of professional regulation.

IDP - 

http://ncarb.org/en/Experience-Through-Internships/IDP-2.aspx

Reporting Requirements

http://ncarb.org/Experience-Through-Internships/Maintaining-Participation/Reporting-Requirement.aspx

Interns must submit all experience including supplemental experience in reporting periods of no longer than six months and within two months of completion of each reporting period.

State IDP Coordinators

http://ncarb.org/Experience-Through-Internships/IDP-Coordinators.aspx

Registration Boards

http://ncarb.org/Getting-an-Initial-License/Registration-Board-Requirements.aspx

Best.

Degree to become licensed

Good Morning,

 

I am an Architectural Technologist looking to study to become a Licensed Architect.

 

I was reading online about M.Arch and B.Arch, am I able to study and recieve a Bachelors in Architecture and become a licensed architect? (If yes, in what areas of the world? - Mainly gearing towards Canada and US)

 

If I could get a bit more clarification that would be great.

_______________

In the United States, most states or jurisdictions require an individual to possess a professional NAAB (www.naab.org) accredited degree.  This NAAB degree could be either the five-year Bachelor of Architecture or the 4+2 year Master of Architecture.

Architects are licensed by the state in which they are licensed; thus, an architect would only be able to practice architecture in that state.  For more details on licensure, I suggest you access NCARB - www.ncarb.org.

As I understand it, an accredited architecture degree from the U.S. meets the requirements for licensure in Canada and vice-versa.  Again, contact NCARB or RAIC.

http://www.raic.org/architecture_architects/becoming_an_architect/provincialassociations_e.htm

Best!

Questions

I have a B.Arch (Architect) from India, and currently struggling for following three issues:

1. Not able to find a job in US, I am currently in Phoenix AZ. Can you please suggest some good jobsite where I might able to see some openings.


2. Are there any distance learning universities where I can get my M. Arch completed.


3. Is the Indian B. Arch degree valid in US? Can I start my own practice with Indian Architecture Degree?
__________

Here is a start on your issues/questions.

1. I would steer you away from websites and network.  If you have not done so, join the AIA chapter or attend lectures/events frequented by architects to network.  Research the firms in the region and contact them with your materials.

2. There are two accredited M.Arch programs that a portion of their program is delivered online - Boston Architectural College and Lawrence Technological University.  You can visit - naab.org for their websites.  

3. The simple answer is NO, but you can still apply for licensure within the U.S; contact ncarb.org and review the information for foreign-educated individuals.  You will need to have your education evaluated through EESA to determine its equivalency to the NCARB Education Standard.

As for starting your own practice, the answer would be YES, but you could not practice architecture until you became licensed in the state in which you practice.  You could hire architects in the interim.

ARE Resources

Dear Dr. Architecture,

I came across your blog while searching on information about prepping for ARE exam. Thanks for the blog, it definitely give me confidence to begin the ARE Exam.

I need some advise on finding the best ARE books to begin my study. They're a few choices of books 

I found online, but not sure which one to choose from. What ARE prep books would you recommend? 
_______________


As I have not personally taken the ARE, I am not in a position to recommend specific resources for taking the ARE, but there are plenty of resources --

ARE Resources (AIA) (see list below)
http://www.aia.org/professionals/licensed/AIAS074829

Study Resources for the ARE
http://academics.triton.edu/faculty/fheitzman/idp-stud.htm

ARE REOURCES – as listed on AIA

Resources from the NCARB

Learn the latest information on the NCARB ARE Home Page. Begin the process by reviewing the materials the provided by NCARB, the developers of the exam:

Handbook for Interns and Architects
Describes the NCARB organization, services, procedures, and examinations. Also outlines requirements for certification, IDP training requirements, and certification requirements for Canadian architects. View all free publications available from NCARB.

Also available: ARE 4.0 Guidelines| NCARB Study Guides | NCARB ARE FAQ

You can register to take the ARE on the Prometric Web site.

ARE Study Guides

Several publishers and companies offer study materials. Please see their Web sites for more information. Check with your local AIA component to see if they lend ARE study materials. Also, enter the ARE Forum to get recommendations or buy secondhand books.

Amor Study Guides (3.1)
Study Guides for all Divisions and California Supplemental Exam
Author: William A. Amor, NCARB, AIA

Archiflash (3.1 & 4.0)
Practice problems for ARE 4.0 divisions.
Flashcards for all ARE 3.1 multiple-choice divisions.
Author: National Academic & Licensing Study Aids, LLC. (NALSA)

Architectural Licensing Exam Preparation (3.1)
For each ARE 3.1 multiple-choice division and California Supplemental Exam: Workbook and Sample Exam Booklet
Author: Richard Chylinski, FAIA

Architecture Exam Review (3.1 & 4.0)
Book series for all divisions of the ARE 4.0
Book series of Structural, Non-structural, Graphic topics include: Study guide, examples and solutions, practice exams
Author: Various practitioners, see Web site

Free lecture notes and structural tips
Author: David Thaddeus, AIA

Kaplan AEC Education (3.1 & 4.0)
For each ARE 4.0 division: Study Guide, Online Supplement, Practice Vignette Books, Question & Answer Books, Flashcards
For each ARE 3.1 multiple-choice division: Study Guide, Questions and Answers Handbook, Test Bank CD-ROM, Flash Cards, Online Interactive Review
For each ARE 3.1 graphic division: Study Guide, Practice Vignettes, Test Bank CD-Rom, Online Learning, Flash Cards
Author: Various practitioners and includes Architectural License Seminars (ALS) resources

MBA Architectural (3.1 & 4.0)
(909) 336-1180
CDs and DVDs and books for all ARE study divisions
California supplemental exam information also included
Author: Michael P. Boardway, R.A

Sissoko Design Office, Inc (California Supplemental Exam)
CSE study guide:  “California Supplemental Exam ---An elemental understanding of the CSE---A synthesis of the California Architects Board recommended reference materials” Also a companion book contains a total of 10 sample exams and answers.
Author:  Habib Sissoko, Licensed Architect

Workbook: Solutions: Understanding the Graphic Divisions of the Architect's Exam
Home Study Course includes: Solutions Workbook, Mock Exams (pencil & paper version or computer version), NCARB Tutorial Solutions, Past Exams
Author: Norman K. Dorf, AIA

ARE Seminar Instructors

Candidates should check with your local AIA component to see if they organize ARE seminars or look at the AIA national Events Calendar for already scheduled seminars. Seminars may also occur at the local, state, or regional level or through a school of architecture. Some of the seminar instructors also offer online seminars. Check their Web sites for more information.

Architectural Licensing Exam Preparation (3.1)
Richard Chylinski, FAIA

ARE Prep for Graphic Divisions (3.1 & 4.0)
Bob J. Wise Jr., Robert Elfer, NCARB, AIA, Laura Serebin, AIA

Funkaar Studios (3.1 & 4.0)
Umber Kazmi, LEED AP

Kaplan AEC Education (3.1 & 4.0)

MBA Architectural Seminars, Workshops, and Tutoring (3.1 & 4.0)
Michael P. Boardway, R.A.
(909) 336-1180

PREPA-R-E (3.1)
Marc Mitalski, PE, SE, Assoc. AIA

Seminars on General Structures and Lateral Forces Divisions (3.1 & 4.0)

David Thaddeus, AIA, NCARB | UNC-Charlotte | (704) 687-4021

Seminars on Mechanical and Electrical Systems Division
Wendell Edwards | CUNY-New York | (718) 260-5266

Mike Green, PE | Arkansas-based | (479) 443-4786

Seminars for Graphic Divisions
Bob Stephen and Barry Chin | California-based | (415) 681-6991

ARE Scholarships

Check with your local AIA component to see if they know of local scholarships opportunities. To suggest an addition to this list, please email emergingiprofessionals@aia.org.

Jason Pettigrew Scholarship
The AIA National Associates Committee (NAC) maintains a scholarship fund to remember their friend and colleague, Jason Pettigrew, Assoc. AIA. The scholarship recipients receive a full set of Kaplan ARE Study Guides and funds to cover the cost of taking each section of the ARE once. Please note $400 is awarded up front and remainder is paid upon successful completion of the exam, and to receive balance of award, recipients must complete the ARE within 5 years of receiving the initial award and submit passing reports from each of the divisions of the exam to the AIA for verification of completion.

Texas State Scholarship
A scholarship fund called the Architect Registration Examination Financial Assistance Fund (AREFAF) was created by the Seventy-sixth Legislature of the state of Texas.  This scholarship fund serves a public purpose of the state of Texas by promoting the professional needs of the state; increasing the number of highly trained and educated registered architects available to serve the residents of the state; improving the state's business environment and encouraging economic development; and identifying, recognizing, and supporting outstanding applicants who plan to pursue careers in architecture. The scholarship is a one-time reimbursement of $500 for taking the Architect Registration Examination. TBAE will award scholarships twice each year - December 31st and June 30th. The deadline for submitting scholarship applications is two weeks prior to each award date.

AIA Shreveport Grant for Interns/Edward Kemp Grant Fund
In an endeavor to assist intern architects enrolled in IDP with the cost of exam fees for the Architectural Registration Exam, the AIA Shreveport Chapter has established an annual grant fund for newly licensed architects. Intern architects are eligible for a financial grant upon passing the exam and obtaining a Louisiana license. Ask a board member for further information in regards to this grant.

Licensed Architect?

I would like to know if I can be a licensed architect with the following background:
I have 1) B.S. of Architecture from University of Wisconsin Milwaukee (a 4-year program),
2) Masters of Science of Architecture from MIT, Aga Khan Program for Islamic Architecture (a 2-year degree).

Can I still receive a licence and be a practicing licensed architect with such education? Does it depends on State? If yes, what do I need to do to gain my license?
__________

Most jurisdictions regulating licensure require a professional NAAB accredited degree (BArch or MArch) to fulfill the education requirement for becoming an architect.

From what you list below, it appears that you have the post-professional Master of Science in Architecture.

I would suggest you contact the state department of professional regulation to clarification.  You may also wish to contact NCARB - http://www.ncarb.org -- to learn the steps to becoming an architect -- 1) education, 2) experience and 3) examination.

Thanks!

Licensing for foreign architects

I am sending you seeking your advice regarding becoming a licensed architect in the USA.

I finished my architectural studies from the German Jordanian University in Amman, Jordan and I hold a Bachelor of Architecture degree. 

I have been researching the process for becoming a licensed architect and I need to know first if my school is an accredited university by the NAAB. I sent them an email with my request but was not lucky and got no response. Any suggestions where can I get such information? I tried the NAAB website but also wasn't lucky enough.

Do you think I have good chances of becoming a licensed architect in USA since I am not American and I did not get my degree from an accredited school in the USA? I know it is a long process and I am willing to go through it till the end but has it happened before that non-American architects get the license and are allowed to work in USA?

Thank you for your help, looking forward to hear from you soon.

________________

First, I can say with certainty that your degree is not accredited by NAAB, but you can still pursue licensure in the U.S. 

Next, I would suggest you review the following website:

http://www.ncarb.org/en/Getting-an-Initial-License/Foreign-Architects.aspx
If you do not qualify for the BEFA or choose to pursue the traditional path toward licensure, the three main requirements you must fulfill to be licensed in a U.S. jurisdiction include education, experience, and examination. Recognize that not all jurisdictions have adopted NCARB's education and experience standards. All questions regarding your eligibility must be directed to your jurisdiction’s registration board.

Do recognize that you apply for licensure with a particular state, but NCARB facilitates the process for documenting your education, experience, and examination.

You will need to have your education evaluated via EESA; below is their website.
https://www.eesa-naab.org/home.aspx

There is certainly a good chance of becoming licensed if your education is equivalent to the NCARB Education Standard, you complete IDP and pass the ARE.

Contact EESA or NCARB with more detailed questions.  Best!

International Education

My daughter wants to study and become an architect. However she is thinking of studying this in the UK or Australia-If she wants to practice in America as an architect would the UK degrees or Australian degrees be recognized in America? What does she have to do to gain her license once qualified in lets say California or Florida?

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Congrats to your daughter for pursuing a career in architecture.

To become licensed as an architect in the United States, one must fulfill the requirements of the state/jurisdiction in which they wish to practice.  In most states, you need to fulfill 1) education (NAAB professional degree), 2) experience (fulfill IDP), and 3 examination (pass all divisions of ARE).  You may wish to contact the NCARB website to learn the specifics of Florida and California

If she decides to study in the UK or Australia, she would need to have her education evaluated against the NCARB Education Standard better known as EESA.

You may also wish to review the Canberra Accord with regards to an education in Australia.

http://www.naab.org/international/canberraaccord.aspx

Best!