Too late!

It's not uncommon for people to make career changes late in life, but pursuing a career in architecture at my advanced age might not be practical. I'm 53. I've spent my career as a graphic designer and advertising copywriter, but I desperately need a change and architecture has always interested me.

Am I crazy? What sort of realistic time frame am I looking at? Are there lower level positions, such as draftsman, that I could get into more quickly and begin earning a living in the field? Any advice and/or additional references would be appreciated.
____________

First, as one who helps students/individuals pursue their "dreams," I say it is never too late.  With that said, pursuing the path to become an architect is a long road.

Assuming you already had a college degree, albeit it in another discipline, the Master of Architecture will be 3-4 years. Afterwards, you must complete IDP - Intern Development Program, the experience portion of becoming an architect that requires 5600 hours working under the supervision of an architect; on average, graduates take between 3-5 years to complete.  Once you have education and experience are able to take the ARE Architect Registration Exam; again it takes on average between 1-3 years to take and pass the 7-part exam.

Thus, it could take from 7 - 10 years before you are a licensed exam.  You might say that becoming an architect in 10 years is too old, but do know that Philip Johnson, one of the most influential architects of the 20th century became an architect at 39 years old and practiced until his death at 93 years old.

As you suggest, there may be many employment opportunities within the building industry that you could do sooner and be satisfying.  In fact, many larger firms may have graphic designers on staff.  

You must also look at why you need a change.

As for references, visit ARCHCareers.org and obtain a copy of Becoming an Architect, 3rd Ed.

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 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.

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.

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.

Unpaid Architecture Internships Come Under Fire

Given that architectural graduates are required to work under the supervision of an architect as part of the process of becoming an architect, I thought you might be interested in this article on Architizer.

http://www.architizer.com/en_us/blog/dyn/65222/unpaid-architecture-internships-come-under-fire/#.ULjEZ4WK3R1

Image below via @EricGlatt, who is working to end “unpaid labor guised as internships”

Story by C. J. Hughes
Architecture firms have often relied on unpaid interns, even if some firms don’t exactly advertise the tradition. But after recent lawsuits brought by former interns in other industries, the custom is starting to come under fire in the design world.

...

Architect at 49?

I read your blog. I'm writing you because I'm specifically interested in green/eco architecture especially for homes. I live in Boston Mass. 

I watch my 11 year old son Christopher and its obvious even at the age of 3 he will become an architect because of his love and creativity for building only grows stronger. Lately the two of us sit around talking about and researching eco communities and how to build them. He reminds me of my love for architecture both homes and landscaping. However, when I was young women really weren't encouraged to go into that field other than interior design.

My field of study was education which I hold a Masters Degree and have been a trainer and designer for 25 years now I help people live in strong, fit bodies. I'm currently working with Tufts university as a program leader for their VIVE research program which takes older adults and puts them through a fitness and nutritional program to test the program in senior housing facilities. Although I enjoy what I do and it helps people my passion has always been architecture and landscaping. I sold Real Estate just to get inside homes. I  have a passion for organic farming and healthy environmental building and living. I'm one of those people I see things in my head and now I want to put idealism and practical ideas together. 

I want to know what is the best way for me to get into this field? I know being 49 and going back to school is not an advantage other than the fact I have life experience and a disciplined work ethic. I'm also great with working with people and on teams as a leader. What would be my best venue? I want to inspire my son at an any age we can live our dreams and at his early age this is a great field for his creativity.

__________

Congratulations on your desire to become an architect.

Simply put, you need to complete the following: 1) NAAB accredited architecture degree, 2) Intern Development Program (IDP) - experience under the supervision of an architect; and 3) passing all divisions of the ARE - Architect Registration Examination.  Sounds easy enough, but you are looking at about 6-8 years to complete all three.

Given you have a degree (albeit different discipline), you are eligible to apply to a Master of Architecture (3-4 years) for those with a degree in a discipline other than architecture.  You can start researching schools by looking at -- www.naab.org and www.archschools.org -- You may also wish to be in touch with Boston Architectural College and/or the Boston Architectural Society.

As you are in Boston, you may wish to attend the New England Career Day in Architecture held on Saturday, October 27 at Wentworth Inst. of Technology.  - http://www.architects.org/programs-and-events/architecturedesign-college-fair - I am always there to represent my institution and provide a workshop on selecting a school.

This should get you started.  Contact me with more questions as needed.

Interior Design Student contemplating Grad School

An admissions administrator from the University of British Colombia recommended that I read your blog.  I am so glad she did.  I have a few questions for you.

First a little background:  I am about to complete a degree in Interior Design.  While completing my degree, I realized that my passion really is architecture and urban planning and would like to pursue a license in architecture in addition to being a certified interior designer in the future.  I have looked at all of the pathways to becoming licensed and I know that if I can find a firm to take me on, I can begin IDP in about a year.  I am trying my hardest to go that route because I am scared of the financial commitment that graduate school entails.  But, just in case my dream scenario doesn't happen, I am applying to graduate school as a back up plan.

Question #1:  When in a full time graduate program, how realistic is it to be working full or part time?  And do many students double up and do IDP simultaneously?  I know my studio design classes right now take a lot of time and I am only a part time student.

Question #2:  Although my portfolio is good and very well-rounded for an interior design student, I have seen a few fifth year architecture students portfolios and I find them to be somewhat intimidating.  Do I need to streamline my portfolio and beef up my projects to be more architectural?  What are admissions persons looking for?  UBC is a 3.5 year program and they take students from all disciplines, but I would like to apply to some schools in California, as well, and I am worried about my ability to compete.  If you have any advice for interior design students at all, I would be glad to hear it.  

Thank you so very much

___________________

 

Just a side note that my expertise is becoming an architect in the U.S. and not Canada.

Answers to your questions --

#1 It is extremely unrealistic to think you can attend a graduate program in architecture and work at the same time especially to earn IDP.  Graduate studies are very demanding.  Depending on the program, you may be able to work 10-15 hours per week in a firm, but IDP requires a minimum number of hours for six months to be counted.  Of course, there are programs that require a work component with their studies - Boston Architectural College and UCincinnati are two.

#2 As you applying to MArch programs with a degree in interior design, the programs are not expecting architectural work; they are expecting interior design work.  The best source to know what they are seeking is to contact the programs directly and ask what they look for in an applicant's portfolio.  Of course, they do look at the portfolio as an indicator of your work so design it well.  One resource to consider is Portfolio Design by Harold Linton -- www.portfoliodesign.com.

Remember, if you wish to pursue becoming a licensed architect, you must have an NAAB/CACB accredited degree.

Best.

College Major

The college that I will be attending in the fall does not offer architecture as a major, yet I would still like to pursue a career in architecture. However, I fear that when the time comes to take the ARE exams, I will not have the proper knowledge necessary to pass. Do the ARE exams play a main factor in entrance to graduate schools? What should I do? 

___________

I will provide the best answer I can with what you provided, but it would be helpful to know what college you will be attending and it what major?

First, in order to sit for the licensing exam (ARE), you must first complete an accredited degree in architecture and complete IDP (Intern Development Program) for the state in which you wish to become an architect.

As such, the ARE does not play a factor in applying to graduate programs in architecture.

Thus, if you wish to become an architect, consider completing your degree in another discipline and pursue the Master of Architecture (3-4 years); or you can transfer to an architecture program to more quickly pursue your architecture degree.

Aside from the degree, there are many pursuits you can follow to connect with the discipline -- 1) sketch, 2) read, 3) meet with an architect, 4) attend lectures, 5) see architecture, 6) visit architecture, etc.

Thanks!

IDP -

I have a bachelors in fine arts (BFA) in architectural design which I received in 2002 from Massachusetts College of Art. I worked two summers in different architectural offices; one where I was assisting and another where I was designing.   I went on to do one year in London at the Bartlett's Architecture Diploma program.  I then worked in an architecture/interior design office for four years. 

I have recently moved back to the states and am considering applying for a masters program. I am currently working at a non-profit (not architecture related) and am looking to move back into architecture.

I would like any work experience I gain to apply towards my eventual licensure. I am slightly concerned that I am not able to because I did not get a degree from an NCARB approved institution. They changed the program after I left, added a year and a few professional practice classes and now it is accredited, but it was not during my time there. 

I read through the IDP guidelines and it seems that they are very clear for students who have just graduated with a bachelors in architecture but not for those taking a less traditional route.

So, I suppose my question is, how do I go about starting the IDP?

I am just not sure of the best way forward and I do not want to work and not have it count toward something if that is an option. I also do not have any contacts in my area so getting a mentor and supervisor would be difficult.
 

Obviously this is not urgent and I can figure it out along the way but if there are any steps you would advise that I take, I would appreciate it!

Thank you for your time, I look forward to hearing from you.

___________

First, I will strongly encourage you to review the IDP Guidlines more closely as downloaded from the NCARB website - www.ncarb.org --.  As stated in the guidelines, the determine of whether an experience counts towards IDP is not the degree you have but where you are in your education. 

Now, it is true that because your degree in 2002 was from an institution that did not have the accredited degree, any experience will not have counted.  Plus, since that time, NCARB has established the six month rule -- meaning you must document your experience every six months.

For any future work to count, you must begin your NCARB Council Record and complete the Eligibility Form.  You will need to have the form signed by the IDP Coordinator at Mass Art.  But, none of your previous experience will count.

Depending on where you live, I would also contact the State IDP Coodinator, the list of which can be found on the NCARB website.  As well, you can always contact NCARB directly.

Best!

Becoming an Architecture from High School

i am a high school student in Missouri.  I have always enjoyed drawing buildings and making stuff with my hands.  The more I read about architects the more I would wanted to become one, but I do not know exactly what I need to do to become one or what I need to take in high school.  If you could help me that would be great.  Thanks and have a great day 

____________

First, I will provide you with the basics of pursing architecture, but I will also provide you with resources on the process.

Basically, there are three tasks that you must complete to become an architect - 1) education (professional NAAB accredited degree - http://www.naab.org); 2) experience (completion of Intern Development Program (IDP) http://www.ncarb.org/en/Experience-Through-Internships.aspx); and examination (passing, the Architect Registration Examination (ARE) http://www.ncarb.org/en/ARE.aspx).  In a nutshell, that is the process of becoming an architect.

Now for resources --
ARCHCareers.org - a website dedicated to the process of becoming an architect; includes a list of summer programs that I would encourage you to pursue including the University of Illinois - http://www.arch.illinois.edu/programs/discoverarch/

Becoming an Architect: A Guide to Careers in Design - 2nd Edition - http://www.wiley.com/buy/9780470372104 - a book outlining the process of becoming an architect; includes interviews with over 50 students, interns, and architects.

Occupational Outlook Handbook - http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos038.htm - a resource providing details on the occupation of architect including employment projections.

ARCHCareers Blog - http://archcareers.blogspot.com/ - a blog dedicated to questions and answers that I receive.

This is a good start for you; as I do not want to overwhelm you, start with this material and write back when you have more questions.

Best.

I've just read through your website and firstly, I would like to thank you for all the information you brought to my attention.

Now let me shed light on my situation:

I'm currently a high school student and recently architecture has been "calling" to me. Luckily, I live close to one of the top graduate schools of the nation. However, it's 4 year undergraduate architecture program only results in a Bachelor of Science in Architecture. Now, my state requires a NAAB accredited education for registration for the ARE, but I have a question. I've done a lot of research and cannot seem to find a conclusive answer and hope you can shed light on the situation for me.

If I acquire a Bachelor of Science in Architecture, then reside in a state that accepts a non-NAAB accredited education for the ARE, upon completion, can I move out of state to one that requires a NAAB accredited education and be recognized as a licensed architect or am I required to live in a state that recognizes a Bachelor of Science in Architecture as worthy?

Also, I have one more question. I cannot afford the graduate college immediately after undergraduate. If I were to complete my internship and return to complete a masters degree, would my previous internship suffice, or would I need to complete my three years after my highest level of education?

Any information you can give me would be greatly appreciated.

__________

Rather than directly answer your question, let me help you understand the process of becoming an architect in a different way.

First, the process of becoming an architect requires the completion of three tasks - 1) completion of an NAAB accredited professional degree in architecture; 2) completion of Intern Development Program (IDP) - experience under the supervision of a licensed architect; and 3) passing the 7-part Architect Registration Examination (ARE).  With that said, very few states allow only a preprofessional degree (as you mention), but it limits your career options later.

The above requirements vary from state-to-state, but almost all require the three tasks as outlined above.

When you have completed the three tasks you will be a licensed architect in the state or jurisdiction in which you applied to be an architect.  If you move to another state, you may not practice as an architect because the licensing of an architect is by state.

However, you can gain NCARB certification which will facilitate your becoming an architect in a new state or jurisdiction.

As for your last question -- first, there is actually more financial aid at the graduate level; almost all programs provide fellowships, assistantships and scholarships.  You certainly could work between your undergraduate and graduate degrees, but some states do require experience after your graduate degree.

I hope this all helps; do contact me if you have any additional questions.

Dr. Architecture 

Civil Engineer to Architect

I need some professional help regarding my path to becoming an architect.

There is  a long story why I'm choosing architecture cause I am a graduate civil engineer that seems to be successful in my career in IRAN.

 

But still wants to change my path to architecture.

 

I find out that I should apply for master of architecture in US universities in a special 3 year program, while the question is here that choosing Master is not the sole selection of mine.

 

I think choosing Bachelor of Architecture and start a new bachelor can be also effective even more.

 

So my first Question is regrading this issue?

My second Question is regarding After Master Exams.

For example in US there is FE & PE exams for Civil engineers is there any exam for Architecture to give you the permission or signature.

_________

Given that you already have a degree in civil engineering, it would make more sense to pursue the MArch (3-4 years) than the BArch (5 years).  These MArch degrees were designed for individuals with a degree in another discipline.

In the U.S., the process of becoming an architect requires three (3) tasks 1) education - professional NAAB accredited degree; 2) experience - fulfillment of IDP; and 3) exam - completion of the ARE (Architect Registration Examination.

Other resources to review -- ARCHCareers.org and Becoming an Architect, 2nd Edition.

Dr. Architecture

IDP Experience

How do you go about getting work for the Intern Development Program (IDP) credit if there are no jobs around? Who can I network with I have skills and experience and a BA Architecture degree. 

__________

First, I suggest you fully review the October 2010 IDP Guidelines as posted on the NCARB website.  Assuming you have a NCARB Council Record which is necessary to document experience and have a IDP Mentor, you can gain experience (IDP credit) in some categories.

Effective October 2010, you can experience (up to a maximum) from Design Competitions, Community Based Design Center, and a Site Visit with a mentor.

You may also gain credit from the Emerging Professionals Companion (EPC) and AIA Continuing Education (see below from Guidelines

Effective 1 January 2010
Interns, whether or not employed in a qualified work setting, may earn elective hours by completing AIA-approved continuing education resources and programs. Self-reported continuing education is not eligible for IDP credit.
l One AIA learning unit earns one elective IDP hour.

For more details, contact your IDP Educator Coordinator or State Coordinator.  For a list, visit NCARB.

Dr. Architecture

Beginning Education

I am very interested in an architectural career. I took a few drafting class in high school and realized I fancied the freedom of design and creation. I am now graduated and currently serving on active duty in the Marine Corps in Afghanistan. I am still interested in a career in architecture just not sure where to start.  I  plan on being in the Marine Corps for the next 7 ½ years. What is available online that would get me in the right direction for a accredited degree at a physical college after I get out of the Marine Corps?

_________

I am pleased to hear of your interest in architecture.

In its simplest terms, you need to accomplish three tasks - 1) obtain professional accredited degree in architecture, 2) fulfill the requirements of Intern Development Program (IDP), and 3) pass the Architect Registration Examination (ARE).

Unfortunately, there are no architecture programs online, but most require general education requirements (humanities, mathematics, physics, social sciences, etc.) that you might be able to do via online.  In addition, to the extent that you schedule allows, draw (freehand) everyday.  Also, visit websites related to architecture and "see."

Consider obtaining Becoming an Architect, 2nd Edition, a book that outlines the process.

I hope this helps; let me know if you have additional questions.

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

IDP Hours

I came across your blog"ARCH Career" and found various posts which is very helpful.
I am B.Arch graduate from India graduated in 2008. I am currently in San Francisco, CA.
I just got in a part time job now, and I want to know if I can add those part time working hours to my IDP? Also I worked in India for 1 year in an Architectural Firm. I worked 6 months in 1 Firm, another 6 months in a different firm. Can I add these too to my credit hours? If so do I have to get a letter from my Previous Employee who hired me(From India)?

How do I start my IDP Hours? Do I have to register before I start accumulating my IDP hours?
I know I asked way too may questions.Sorry about that. I asked many people and no one seems to really know about the Foreign Degree.

I would really appreciate if you could help me regarding this.
___________

First, I am pleased to know that you have found the ARCHCareers blog helpful.

Now, the best place for all of your answers on IDP is NCARB -- http://www.ncarb.org/en/Experience-Through-Internships.aspx

Everything you possibly want to know is outlined in the IDP Guidelines also available from the website. For example, with respect to working part-time, it counts if it meets this requirement.

Effective 1 July 2008:
To earn training hours in most work settings, you must meet the following requirements:
FULL TIME: 32 hours per week for a minimum period of eight consecutive weeks
PART TIME: At least 15 hours per week for a minimum period of eight consecutive weeks

Normally, you experience in India would count, however, NCARB now has the six-month rule which means you must document your experience within six months; again, review the IDP Guidelines.

To begin, start a NCARB Council Record - www.ncarb.org.

I also found the attached Path to Licensure Handbook from the AIA California Council which may be helpful. -- http://www.aiacc.org/cgi-bin/htmlos.cgi/001331.2.1010201881819558723

Dr. Architecture

Curious about Architecture

To be honest, I'm not sure what to expect as a response to this email, perhaps some advice I suppose. My name is Ryan Hanson, I'm a Senior Biology student at Brigham Young University-Idaho. You're probably already slightly confused as to why a Senior Biology student is emailing you at all. The truth is, although I'm planning on and preparing for a degree in health care as a physician, I have to admit I've always had an interest in architecture. I guess I doubted my abilities to become a successful architect because I don't consider myself the most creative or artistic person. I do well with science and math and just about anything I truly put my mind towards academically. I feel like I'd enjoy a career as a physician, but I can't help but notice how architectural models and renderings catch my attention every time I see them. I'm intrigued by how buildings look, and how I think they could look better. I love seeing bold, fresh designs and sometimes imagine myself coming up with those designs and seeing them made into real, usable structures.

My dilemma is that I've never had the chance to "test the architectural waters." Now, at age 24, and on the verge of graduating, I wonder if such a dramatic change in direction (from Biology/healthcare to Architecture) would be feasible. Obviously I'm planning on a lot more school to become a doctor, would it be a similar time frame to become an architect at this point? Is the life of an architect very "family-friendly"? And are there possibilities for successful, profitable jobs in Architecture in somewhat rural areas, or is the job market fairly localized to larger cities?

I'd appreciate any advice or insights you have. Thanks for your time and help.
___________

Given that you are about to graduate with a degree in biology, you would be eligible to apply to the Master of Architecture (3-4 years) available at a number of architecture programs. To research programs, visit -- www.naab.org or www.archschools.org --.

Once you complete your architecture degree, you would need to complete IDP - Intern Development Program -- www.ncarb.org. Afterwards, you would be eligible to take the ARE - Architect Registration Exam. The degree would be 3-4 years, completing IDP would be from 3-5 years and completing the ARE could be from 1-3 years. I am not sure how that compares to becoming a doctor.

On the surface, you may hear that the life of an architect is not family-friendly, but it is up to you and standing tall to your values. On average, you will certainly work more than 40 hours, but it is not essential.

As for where to practice, it is true that there are more opportunities in urban areas, but you can make it work in more rural areas.

For more details, obtain Becoming an Architect, 2nd edition.

Starting IDP and EESA

Hello Dr. Architecture,
I have recently completed BArch (5years) from accredited school of architecture in india now i am thinking to come for internship in USA (I have got offer as intern too). So my question is do I become eligible for registering and starting IDP process as my internship is going on over there and if soo how many years of office experience is needed to be elligible for licensure exam to become licensed architect over there or its necessary to go for MArch degree or so from U.S
university since my B.arch degree is from India?

Any insights you may have would be greatly appreciated

Thank you so much for your valuable time.
____________

Congrats on your recently completed BArch.

To learn more about IDP (Intern Development Program), visit NCARB at www.ncarb.org; download the IDP Guidelines (see below).

when can I start?
Your “IDP eligibility date” is the date after which you are able to earn IDP experience. Qualifying experience must be earned on or after your IDP eligibility date. Once your IDP eligibility date has been established, it is set for all experience earned on or after that date.
Under the IDP eligibility dates effective 1 October 2010, the earliest eligibility date you can obtain is 1 October 2010. For experience earned prior to 1 October 2010, you must comply with the eligibility dates in effect prior to 1 October 2010.
For experience earned prior to 1 October 2010:
For experience earned prior to 1 October 2010, you must comply with the IDP eligibility dates and documentation outlined in Appendix A.
For experience earned on or after 1 October 2010:
For experience earned on or after 1 October 2010, you can earn IDP experience1 once you have successfully established:
1. Enrollment in a NAAB/CACB-accredited degree program. [link to form1] 2. Enrollment in a pre-professional architecture degree program at a school
that offers a NAAB/CACB-accredited degree program. [link to form 2]
3. Employment in work setting A after obtaining a U.S. high school diploma, General Education Degree (GED) equivalent, or comparable foreign degree. [link to form 3]

The overall IDP requirement is 5600 hours which is not quite a full three years if working full-time.

the IDp training requirement
In order to satisfy the IDP training requirement, you must earn 5,600 hours of experience. You earn training hours when you are employed in work settings recognized by your state registration board. Of the 5,600 hours required for completion of IDP, 3,720 hours are considered core minimum hours. Core minimum hours are earned in four training categories that include 16 training areas. The additional 1,880 hours required are considered elective hours.

In terms of your education, you would NOT need to necessarily pursue the Master of Architecture, but you would need to have your education from India evaluated against the NCARB Education Standard via EESA - Education Evaluation Services for Architects -- https://www.eesa-naab.org/home.aspx

I hope this all helps!

Dr. Architecture

Starting IDP

I want to start my IDP process, but my degree is BA in Architecture, but not NAAB approved. I did my research and I know I can compensate that with experience in NY State, so there has to be a way of qualifying for IDP with that degree, but I cant figure out how. All of qualifications seem to involve NAAB approval. What would you recommend?
________
First, your degree, BA in Architecture is not eligible to be accredited by NAAB. What determines you eligibility in IDP is your current year and is your degree accepted for direct entry to a two-year NAAB Master of Architecture -- According to NCARB --

When can I start?
You can earn IDP experience once you have successfully completed:
next steps
1. Three years in an NAAB-accredited professional degree program;
2. The third year of a four year pre-professional degree program in architecture accepted for direct entry to a two-year NAAB- accredited professional master’s degree program;
3. One year in NAAB-accredited professional master’s degree program following receipt of a non- professional degree;
4. Ninety-six semester credit hours as evaluated in accordance with the NCARB Education Standard, of which no more than 60 hours can be in the general education category; or
5. A number of years equivalent to the periods set out in 1., 2., or 3. above, in a CACB-accredited professional degree program, or in a Canadian university professional degree program certified by CACB.

Where did you receive your BA in Architecture degree? If your degree is accepted to a NAAB Master of Architecture, you should be good; if not, you will need to wait until after you begin a graduate degree.

However, do know that NCARB is in the process of changing the eligibility dates. I would suggest contacting NCARB -- www.ncarb.org.

Dr. Architecture