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

Degrees - What is the best approach?

Hello! We came across your blog and appreciate that you take the time to answer questions regarding pursuing architecture.

Our son is a junior in high school. He has always shown a talent for how things fit together (assembling items, solving puzzles) and an interest in designing and building things. We (and he) think that pursuing architecture in college may be a very good fit for him. So, we are trying to identify colleges and programs to learn more about and ultimately identify those to which he would want to apply.

We see that there are Bachelor of Arts degrees and Bachelor of Science degrees. There are professional degrees and pre-professional degrees. We are guessing that he wants a Bachelor of Science, professional degree, and that the shortcut answer is to pick a school whose program is accredited by the NAAB. Is this a sound approach? Are there any other factors we should be thinking about?

Thanks for taking the time to help us.

________

 

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 your son works to 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 source 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 architecture, your son 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).  He could also pursue a degree in another discipline and do the Master of Architecture but it would take longer.

He does NOT need to initially select a program accredited by NAAB as long as the final degree is accredited.  He could start at a community college or a four-year program that does NOT have the MArch although that might take longer.

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

 

Dr. Architecture 

BArch vs. MArch - Follow-up!

I have two last questions: With the 4+2 program, do people usually continue on to grad school right after undergrad? I've heard that it is beneficial to first gain experience in the real world through years of internships before acquiring an MArch, but this is just what I've heard (Or is it yet for another path??)

The BArch and MArch are professional programs and accredited for licensing purposes. What does this "professional" part mean, and to employers, is a person with a professional degree (specifically the BArch) with no license on the same plate as a person with a nonaccredited degree (BS Arch for example)? 

_________

Your question on what graduates in the 4+2 program is the million dollar question.  In other words, it is truly up to you as to what is best for you.  Truly, I think that most graduates from a four-year pre-professional BS in Architectural Studies degree will continue their studies in a Master of Architecture upon graduation.  Another question for you is whether you stay at the same institution or pursue graduate studies at a different one.  Personally, I did six years of study consecutively, but I entered a different institution for my graduate studies.

However, some graduates will take time between their degrees to enter the workforce and gain experience in the profession.  They do so to earn monies, determine their next step in their career, or simply take a break from their studies.

Still others will depart from architecture and pursue graduate studies in another discipline (urban planning, landscape, law, to name a few) or seek employment in another field.

As to your other questions -- professional means that the degree program (BArch or MArch) is the degree for which you need to enter the profession.  Lastly, someone with a BArch would have an advantage over someone with the BS Arch (pre-professional) degree because they have the degree necessary for licensure.

Think of it this way; you are an employer that has two employees, one with a BArch and one with a BS Arch.  At one level both employees can do parallel tasks, but the BArch has the professional degree and needs no further education to obtain the license.  The BS Arch candidate does need further education and may depart after a certain length to pursue the MArch. 

This does NOT mean that the BArch is better than the BS Arch.  It is just one more aspect of the degrees to consider.

BArch vs. MArch

First of all, thank you for giving so much of your time and experience answering questions and maintaining an extremely useful website! It's provided me with so much guidance and information.

I've been browsing many architecture firms' websites, looking their architects' educational backgrounds, and also looking at the educational backgrounds of my own instructors as well as university professors from different schools, and I realized that most have M.Arch degrees with either BS/BA in Architecture or another field. I rarely saw people with BArch's, and the few with BArch's continued on to pursue an MArch.

Am I looking in the wrong places and making the wrong generalizations about the BArch's lack of popularity in the real world? I know there are other careers that architects can pursue, but I'm just more familar with the private and educational sectors that architects can go into.

I'm going to start my 2nd year as a BArch major this fall, but I'm beginning to have doubts about whether it is too limited of a path.

In general, I'm curious where the BArch. people disappear to. Do firms see the BArch as just a Bachelors (like bachelors versus masters), or as a professional degree that is somewhat equivalent to an MArch?

Again, thank you for your help!

__________

I truly find your email/question interesting because I have not seen the BArch through your perspective before.

I cannot say for sure, but up through the late 1960s, the BArch was almost the exclusive professional degree in architecture.  At this point in time, the profession determined that another route - the 4+2, was a viable option to develop.  From the late 1960s and continuing today, architecture programs have been converting from their BArch to the 4+2 MArch.  Along the way, the 4+3 MArch was developed (1980s) where an individual with an undergraduate degree with another discipline could simply pursue the graduate level.

For the longest time, the BArch was still the degree offered at the majority of architecture programs; now, it is the Master of Architecture.

Ultimately, I would suggest you view YOUR degree based on what you wish to accomplish in the profession.

For purposes of licensure, the BArch and MArch are parallel.  Both meet the education standard with jurisdictions to become an architect.  However, many BArch graduates will continue their education to pursue a MArch (post-professional) degree.  This could explain what you see -- If you see an architect with an MArch, it is the 4+2 MArch or someone with a BArch who also obtained the MArch.

I would NOT simply abandon your BArch.  Instead, consider what you wish to do with the degree.  It would allow you to become licensed; in addition, you could always continue your education if desired in architecture or a related discipline.

With that said, you could certainly transfer to a 4+2 MArch route but would need to wait until Fall 2012 to do so.

If possible, try to connect with some of the professionals that you viewed to learn of their career path and their thoughts on the two degrees.

Feel free to contact me again with additional questions.

Dr. Architecture

Pre-professional vs. Professional degree

I am currently a senior and have a question regarding the degrees I have to take in the future. I would want to not only design buildings, but be able to design a bit of outdoor as well.  I am unsure whether to select a pre-professional and professional degrees.  I should take and what types? Advice would be really appreciated!

________

In order to become an architect, you need to accomplish three tasks - 1) education, 2) experience, and 3) examination. 

With regards to education, almost all states (jurisdictions) require a professional architecture degree accredited by NAAB (http://www.naab.org).  The professional degree can be either the Bachelor of Architecture or the Master of Architecture; in addition, many architecture programs offer a pre-professional degree typically a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies (BSAS). 

A pre-professional degree is needed to pursue the professional Master of Architecture degree.

Coming from high school, you would enter either the five-year Bachelor of Architecture or the pre-professional BSAS.  Another option would be to pursue a degree in any discipline and pursue the Master of Architecture at the graduate level.

To learn more, visit NAAB, ARCHSchools.org, and consider obtaining Becoming an Architect, 2nd Edition.

Dr. Architecture

RIBA to the US

I am writing to request some information regarding the route to becoming an architect in the USA. I am currently just finishing my RIBA part 1 in London England and considering the option of continuing my education in California with the intention of becoming AIA registered. Is this an option? Thank you for your time.

__________

First, congratulations on your decision to continue your education in California and to pursue licensure in the U.S.

This route is definitely an option for you and completing your education will help immensely, but please note that unlike in the U.K., the AIA has nothing to do with the licensure of architects in the U.S.  The American Institute of Architects (AIA) is a professional organization and provides benefits to its membership.

Instead, each state or jurisdiction awards licensure while the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) oversees the process at the national level. 

Basically, the process is three steps - 1) Education, 2) Experience, and 3) Examination.  For most states, you must gain a professional NAAB accredited degree (www.naab.org); you can pursue the Bachelor of Architecture or the Master of Architecture.  Next, you must complete the Intern Development Program which is working for a licensed architect for about three years (http://www.ncarb.org/en/Experience-Through-Internships.aspx) and the final step is taking an passing the seven part Architect Registration Examination (ARE - http://www.ncarb.org/en/ARE.aspx).

If you still have a desire to still return to U.K., you may wish to consider University of Maryland as they had been RIBA validated; I am not sure if they still are (www.arch.umd.edu).

I wish you the best and feel free to send more questions.

Dr. Architecture

Dual MArch/MBA Programs

I have taken the GMAT, and at times I've considered going back to school for an MBA. I've tried to find schools w/ MBA/M.Arch degrees, but I've only come up with a handful including ASU, Utah, and Buffalo. Are you aware of any other dual degree programs?
________

There may be others, but these are the ones I have found.

Dual Master of Architecture and Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Arizona State University - http://sala.asu.edu/degrees/grad/mamba.php

University of Colorado – Denver - http://business.cudenver.edu/Graduate/ProMBA/Pro_Arch.htm

State University of New York Buffalo - http://www.ap.buffalo.edu/architecture/degrees/mba.asp

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign - http://www.arch.uiuc.edu/programs/degree/march/dualdegree/march_mba/

University of Kansas - http://www.business.ku.edu/masters/dual/

Kent State University - http://www.caed.kent.edu/Academic/grad/march_mba.html

Lawrence Technological University - http://www.ltu.edu/architecture_and_design/dual_master.asp

University of Michigan - http://taubmancollege.umich.edu/architecture/programs/graduate/dual_degrees/march_mba/

Penn - http://www.design.upenn.edu/about/dual-degrees-other-university-programs

Texas Tech University - http://arch.ttu.edu/wiki/MA_MBA

http://mba.ba.ttu.edu/MBA/MBA_Current/MBA_C_JP_MBAARCH.asp

University of Utah - http://www.business.utah.edu/display.php?pageId=2540

Washington University - http://www.arch.wustl.edu/master-architecture/mba-march

Yale University - http://www.architecture.yale.edu/drupal/programs/march_mba

I hope this helps.

Dr. Architecture

BA in Architectural Studies vs. BS in Architecture

I am an Architecture Pre-major student at Kent State, OH and I am not sure whether I should declare my major as a BA in Architectural Studies or BSc in Architecture. These are the only two Architecture majors that my school offer. I know that the Bsc in Architecture+MArch (4+2 program) at Kent is NAAB accredited but I do not want to necesarily read for my Masters degree at the same school. Since I realize that both the BSc and the BA in Architecture are of Pre-professional level, I would like to know which is a better choice if I am to pursue a MArch at a different school.
________

Upon review of both programs from the Kent State University website, it is clear that you should pursue the Bachelor of Science in Architecture degree if your intent is to pursue the Master of Architecture at Kent State or any other institution.

You would certainly be eligible to pursue the MArch with the BA in Architectural Studies, but the length of time would be longer (see statement below).

Architectural Studies Program Mission Statement

The program, leading to a Bachelor of Arts in Architectural Studies, is committed to prepare graduates to seek employment in the construction and development industries, develop careers in cultural theory or pursue a three year graduate professional program in architecture, as well as a variety of other professional programs in areas such as landscape architecture, urban planning, law, and business.

Another method to determine the answer to your question is to contact a handful of graduate architecture programs.

Best to you in your decision.

BArch vs. MArch

I found your blog while I was trying to look up the difference between someone with a Bachelors in Architecture and a Masters in Architecture. In the professional world, is there much of a difference between the two as far as being hired goes, respect or pay wise? Is there any difference between the two except that one has a BArch and one has a MArch?
_______

With respect to the licensure, there is no difference between the two. Both serve as the first NAAB accredited professional degree.

However, obviously they are different in terms of length and emphasis. In terms of the profession, they are different but probably only in the initial years after graduation. Depending on their individual background, employers may have a preference over one of the degrees more than the others, but that would be personal preference.

In other words, if I have a BArch, I may be more interested in graduates from a BArch program or likewise for the MArch. Ultimately, you choose a degree program based on your own criteria - one of which could be how the profession views the degree.

In the end, employers want to see your work and what you can do regardless of degree.

Dr. Architecture

Becoming an Architect

I am an upcoming senior in high school and have a few questions that I could not necessarily find on your web site. My first question is what is the best way of going about getting a undergraduate degree in something other than in architecture, and then going on to graduate school to get a major in architecture and follow the steps of accreditation? More or less what are the best, most valuable or useful undergraduate degrees for becoming an architect?

I live in Indiana so my options for architectural degrees are limited (Ball State and Notre Dame) and while I would love to go out of state I'm not sure I can, so I'm wondering what would be best to go to college for that would help me in becoming a architect, other than the obvious pre-professional architectural undergraduate degree? Thank you very much for your helpful web site I have found a lot of useful information on it, and I'm hoping you can help me answer these questions. Once again thank you very much.
________

First, congrats on your desire to pursue architecture as a career path.

Next, there is no best way to pursue the education of an architect; you must research the different paths and discover which is best for you. With that being said, you can certainly pursue any discipline/degree in college first and then pursue the Master of Architecture (3-4 years). It does not matter the degree at the undergraduate level, but remember you will need to submit a portfolio as part of your application to the Master of Architecture. For this reason, you may wish to pursue a related degree in art and design, engineering, etc., but what is most important is that you enjoy the major and do well.

I understand fully that there are only two architecture programs in Indiana, but why can you not pursue programs in other states? I suggest you consider all programs by researching --

www.naab.org
www.archschools.org

To determine the best college, you must first determine the criteria by which you will make the decision; next research the colleges, and make a decision on the best fit.

Be in touch with the college guidance counselor in your high school.

Dr. Architecture

Undergrad Major to Prepare for Architecture

First of all, I'd like to thank you for having such a helpful and informative website. It cleared up so much for me.

I am a high school senior aspiring to become an architect, and I'll soon be applying to many different colleges. Yet I'm having some difficulty.

When choosing a college or university, is it encouraged, recommended, or even absolutely necessary for me to apply somewhere that has an architectural program for undergraduates? If I applied somewhere with an undergraduate architecture program, will it give me a head start on my years of NAAB accredited education? Is it even possible to begin education in an NAAB accredited program as an undergraduate and still get credit?

Many schools that I have been thinking of applying to don't have an architectural program. What do you think about majoring in Art as an undergraduate and then pursuing a M.Arch after graduation? How would this compare to majoring in architecture as an undergraduate? Would I be behind? And if my school ended up WITHOUT an architectural program, would you more suggest majoring in engineering or arts?

And kind of a side question here: Is it unusual for an architect to also pursue a side career as an interior designer or an industrial designer? I'm very drawn to designing in general, architectural or not.

Sorry for the drastic number of questions. Thanks in advance!
______

To best answer your questions, you must understand the various paths to an accredited degree. -- There are basically three paths - 1) Bachelor of Architecture (5 years), 2) Master of Architecture (4+2 years), and 3) Master of Architecture (4 + 3-4 years). You may certainly begin an undergraduate degree in architecture paths 1 or 2, but you are not required to do so.

As you suggest, you may gain a degree in another discipline at the undergraduate level and pursue architecture strictly at the graduate level. Your idea to pursue a degree in art first is certainly valid, but understand that it will take longer to obtain the Master of Architecture. You will NOT be behind, but you will want need to submit a portfolio for your graduate program. Pursuing engineering, art, or another discipline is entirely up to you.

Architects are involved in many careers related to design - interior, furniture, etc. Perhaps not so much product design. If interested in design, I would suggest you consider disciplines in applied arts more than fine arts.

Feel free to ask more questions if needed.

Advice for education after a BArch degree.

Hi Dr. Architecture:

I am hopeful you can give me some advice and direction. I am in my 5th year of my bachelors program of architecture. In reviewing my future I am considering more education before practicing architecture. My consideration is based on a couple of factors, the current state of affairs in the U.S. today making it extremely tough for the college grads to locate job offers, and my desire to enahnce my skills from other B of A graduates through additional skills. Through my B of A program I beleive that I have developed some good foundation to my design skills but I am not sure a Master program in architecture will completely benefit me if it continues to focus on design. Say for example in the future my desire is to have my own development firm, would it not benefit me to have an engineering degree or possibly a degree in structural engineering. My bottom line question is what kind of further education can compliment my B of A degree and then prepare me to compete more advantangeously in the job market and my future as an architect. I am in my 20's now and I want to address my educational requirements right now for proper preparation of my career vs trying to tackle a lot of education after entering in a career direction. Any direction or advice would be great. Thanks.
_________

First, congrats on approaching the graduation of your Bachelor of Architecture. Next, I applaud your interest in continuing your studies.

However, while I applaud your desire, I question your considerations. In my humble opinion, you do not continue your education because you are not able to secure employment or simply want to enhance your skills.

From your statement, it appears that you wish to pursue further education but you are not sure of which discipline to pursue. With this perspective, why continue your studies. I would argue that you "begin with the end in mind" first; determine which discipline you wish to pursue and then pursue graduate studies.

What would happen if you chose structural engineering for your studies and later found out that you had no desire to pursue it as a career.

Education (Graduate Programs) will always be there. I would suggest you strongly consider entering the workforce, albeit difficult, to help you learn to which discipline you wish to pursue. It is admirable to "address your educational requirements right now" but why do it now if you are not sure of the disipline.

Of course start your career/graduate studies research now. Talk to people, read, research programs -- petersons.com -- etc.

Just my thoughts. I hope this helps!

Dr. Architecture

Bachelors or Masters?

I'm looking to go into a career in Architecture, and I just had a quick question.

I've done a lot of research about schools and programs, and I have a pretty good idea of what I'm looking for, but I'm kind of confused. What is the difference between a BArch and a MArch? I know both are accredited, and lead to licensure, but some schools that I'm looking at offer an ending with a MArch, others end with a BArch. Is there a benefit to one or the other? Does it matter which one I end up with?

I just want to make the best choices possible when it comes to schooling.
________

As long as the degree you select is accredited by NAAB, it does not matter which you choose. However, there are differences --

Typically, students who are very confident on their career choice of architecture pursue the BArch as this degree starts with studio and hands-on activities immediately upon entry. It is also the shortest duration - five years.

The 4+2 BS + MArch path provides a broader education and flexibility. Students can take time off after their four year degree to work before pursuing the Master degree. You can also pursue your education at two different institutions.

I would suggest researching both degree types and ask students who are in them for their opinions and reasons for choosing the degree they did.

Remember, there is no wrong decision simply an uninformed one. The more research you do, the better your decision will be.

Dr. Architecture

Engineering or Architecture

I came across your archcareer blog the other day and was hoping you could give me some advice. I am currently undecided between Virginia Tech and Penn State. I have been accepted to the architecture program at Penn State. However, I then was thinking about possibly going to Virginia Tech for engineering and then getting my masters in architecture.

I was thinking of going for mechanical or civil engineering with the ultimate professional goal of being an architect. I was just wondering a few things. If I did go for engineering, would it be smarter from an architecture standpoint to go for civil or mechanical engineering? I was always wondering if it would be worth going for a degree in engineering and then a masters in architecture, as far as job prospects and salaries, or if it would be smarter to just go straight to Penn State and go right into the architecture program? Thank you for your time.
_________

To best decide, you need to determine what you want.

If you want to just pursue architecture, attending the BArch at PSU may be the perfect choice for you, however, if you want the opportunity to pursue both engineering (civil or me) and architecture, VTech may be perfect. Both paths are good choices, but which do you want?

The engineering undergraduate degree with the architecture graduate degree will take you longer (probably 7 or so years) vs. the BArch at PSU will probably 5 years. This impacts cost.

When choosing engineering, choose what you would enjoy the most, but civil engineering is certainly more directly related to architecture, but so is mechanical.

As you are having difficulties, I suggest you do some more research on the career choices prior to making the institution choice.

Dr. Architecture

AA to BArch?

I'm a sophomore finishing my A.A. in a community college. I'm going to start my last A.A. semester after the holidays. I was going to major in International Business, but I really have a passion for architecture, urban planning and development. I'm doing research about universities and how to become an architect. I really thank you for your informative blog.

My question is, Could I transfer with an A.A. to a university's architecture program for BArch? do I need any special requirements? I just need one more course (3 credits) next semester to get an A.A. Would it be a good idea to take other classes relating to architecture?

I live in Florida, and I heard that University of Miami has a really good program, have you heard about it? Also, when it comes to graduate school, I've seen different fields such as urban planning, urban design, etc. University of Miami has a program called Masters in Real Estate Development and Urbanism, is that the same as Master in Urban Planning? Which one would you recommend to be the better: getting a bachelors in urban planning and a MArch
or a BArch and a Masters in Urban Planning/development?
________

First, congratulations on your interest in pursuing architecture.

You could certainly transfer to an institution with a BArch, but you would most likely to take the full five years to graduate because you will need to take the full design curriculum. You may wish to consider transferring to a 4+2 program as you may be able to transfer as a sophomore or junior with your AA. To determine if you need any special requirements, you would need to be in touch with each program to which you plan to apply. For spring, I would certainly take courses that are required or consider taking a freehand drawing course to develop your artistic skills.

UMiami is certainly a good program. Research programs via -- www.archschools.org -- or -- www.naab.org --.

Once you complete an accredited architecture degree (BArch or MArch), you should pursue the graduate degree of your choice that will provide you the credentials that you desire. You should contact Miami to learn more about their graduate program. My guess is that RED and Urbanism is different than urban planning.

As to your last question, the answer lies in what you are trying to accomplish

Undergraduate Degrees

I am currently a high school senior in California. My question is what type of undergraduate architecture program should I look for in a college if I have not had much of exposure to architecture programs?

_____________

To become an architect, you need to accomplish three tasks - 1) obtain a professional NAAB accredited degree, 2) complete IDP, and 3) pass the ARE. The website - www.archcareers.org - outlines these tasks in more detail, but I will outline the degrees below:

There are three accredited degrees - Bachelor of Architecture, Master of Architecture, and Doctor of Architecture. As you are coming from high school, you may consider either a five Bachelor of Architecture or pursue a four year pre-professional undergraduate degree (BS in Architecture or equivalent) and afterwards pursue the Master of Architecture.

Either of the two paths are viable but you must determine which is a better fit for you. I suggest you research and contact schools by visiting the following:

www.naab.org

www.archschools.org

Dr. Architecture

Architect? Degree required?

When I graduate college I want to get a job where I plan out houses and then model them using computer software (CAD). Do I need to be a registered architect to do this? What degree will allow me to do this kind of job?
______

It depends! If you strictly focus on residential projects, you may not need to be an architect but you would need to check with the local municipalities to determine the limits you would have if you were not an architect.

Regardless of whether or not you actually become an architect, I would still suggest major in architecture during college. Now, you state you want to do houses, but what if laws change or you decide to do larger projects, you may want the flexibility of becoming an architect. Having the degree will allow you flexibility in your future.

Dr. Architecture

MArch Questions

Answers to your questions are listed below and highlighted in another color.

I recently graduated from a bachelors program in Business Economics but I would like to pursue architecture. Upon researching the requirements to become one, I have gotten a few mixed responses from various individuals . Here are some of my questions.

1) To take the license exam, does one require both an accredited bachelors AND masters degree in Architecture. Or do I only require one or the other?

To become licensed, most states require individuals to obtain a NAAB accredited professional degree in architecture; this would be either the five year Bachelor of Architecture or the Master of Architecture. You would NOT need to do both.

2) Since I already have a bachelors, would you recommend that I apply for a masters program rather than starting from scratch and getting another bachelors in Arch?

As you already have an undergraduate degree, you should apply for a Master of Architecture degree for those with a degree in another discipline. These degrees typically take between 3-4 years.

3) I looked into a few programs in Canada and it appears that the amount of years to get an accredited degree of either a bachelors/masters is slightly smaller than in the US. Is this true or am I misreading the information? And given my situation, do you recommend receiving an architectural degree from Canada and hopefully take a reciprocal licensure exam to practice in the U.S.?

As for the length of degree programs in Canada, I cannot say for certain without doing the research. My guess is that the degree would be approximately the same length as in the U.S. Regardless, you should consider programs in Canada because you may still pursue licensure in the U.S. with a Canadian degree.

4) Since I do not have any background in Arch, I am taking community college core classes in Architecture as well as design classes in the local Art college in the hopes of making a portfolio. Do you have any advice with regards to turning in an application for accredited programs ? How much weight do admission panels focus on portfolios? And lastly, is there anything else I can do that would improve my chances of getting in?

Clearly, taking creative art courses will assist in preparing materials for your portfolio. I would suggest you purchase Harold Linton's book, Portfolio Design (www.portfoliodesign.com) for further guidance. Also, the most important guidance I can provide is to contact each of the programs you are considering to better understand their process and the criteria by which they select candidates. Most will have Open Houses to meet with students and faculty.

Typically, portfolios and academics are most important but the other application materials (statement, letters, test scores) also play a role. Do your best and feel free to contact programs if you have questions.

I must apologize for asking so many questions. I thank you for giving your time to reading through this email and I look forward to your response.

Dr. Architecture

Becoming an Architect

I am 37 and a resident of California. I have an undergrad degree in Liberal Studies. I'd like to pursue a career in architecture. Do I have to get a degree in architecture or can I start as an intern and work my way up and eventually get certified? What would be your recommended course of action? I'd like to avoid school if possible.
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In general terms, it is very difficult to become a licensed architect without first obtaining a NAAB accredited degree in architecture (www.naab.org). However, very few states will allow an individual to become registered with either a preprofessional degree in architecture or a high school diploma, but the experience required would be increased.

As it turns out, California is one of those states. With only a high school diploma, a candidate would need 8 years of acceptable experience. For more details, contact the state board in California or the following:

http://www.ncarb.org/stateboards/regboards.asp?id=9

While it is possible for you to pursue licensure without any additional schooling in California, I would NOT recommend it. First, you will find it extremely difficult to secure an intern position with no background in architecture. Next, as most states and NCARB require a NAAB degree for licensure, you will be limited to practice only in California.

I recognize that you wish to avoid school, but architecture is a very technical field. As such, you have much to learn both in the classroom and working within a firm.

Dr. Architecture

Bachelor vs. Master

I am attend a junior college in California with plans to transfer to California Poly State Univ. - San Luis Obispo to major in architecture. I have two questions:

1 - I read on Cal Poly's web site that its master's program is not accredited. If I wanted to pursue a master's at an accredited institution after obtaining a bachelor's, would that be difficult to
transfer to another school or are there any accredited master's programs. Does it matter if the master's is accredited so long as the bachelor's is? I am confused about this.

2 - After finishing school I doubt that I will have any money, so if I found a job where I could begin my internship, would there be any possibilities for relocation assistance?

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First, you need to understand that you need to pursue a NAAB accredited degree - Bachelor of Architecture, Master of Archtiecture or Doctor of Architecture (www.naab.org). For California Poly State Univ. - SLO, they offer the accredited Bachelor of Architecture and not the Master of Architecture (see below from their website).

If you receive the Bachelor of Architecture, you would be able to eventually apply for licensure. From there, you could pursue the post-professional Master of Science in Architecture.

However, please note that many programs offer a pre-professional Bachelor of Science (not accredited); afterwards, you would pursue the Master of Architecture (accredited). Given that you are at a junior college, you need to contact Cal Poly or other programs to determine where you would start their program.

http://www.arch.calpoly.edu/programs/index.html

Bachelor of Architecture - The Architecture Department offers a Bachelor of Architecture degree. This degree program, accredited by the National Architecture Accrediting Board (NAAB), is a five year "first professional degree" program, a pre-requisite for licensing as a registered architect in most states.

Masters of Science in Architecture - The MS-Arch. is not an accredited professional degree program. This is a second degree for those who already have a BArch or related Bachelor degree.

Visit the following for more details.
http://archcareers.blogspot.com/2008_07_01_archive.html

As for your second question about relocation assistance, it would depend on the employer. It is unlikely but some firms may reimburse you for moving expenses. If you think that you will not have any money at the time of graduation, consider securing summer positions.