The start of a new year is always a great time to ponder whether your current path is moving you toward the future you want. And if you’ve just finished or are about to finish a degree, the future is probably already top-of-mind. 

On the other hand, if you’ve been working in the same role or industry for a while, the new year may have you dreaming of a fresh start elsewhere. Whatever your reason, if you’re considering a new career in architecture or design, there are many exciting opportunities available. 

Let’s talk about the industry role people often think of first: the architect. While becoming one isn’t quick or easy, an architecture career can open the door to fulfilling work which literally alters the landscape and function of communities. 

Here’s a high-level look at the steps to becoming an architect, from getting a related degree, to an internship or other firsthand field experience, to becoming licensed…

4 Key Steps to Becoming a Licensed Architect

Each U.S. state or territory (called a “jurisdiction”) determines its own licensing requirements. Across all jurisdictions, however, the three major legs of the journey are education, experience, and examination.

1) Education: Complete Your Degree

Typically, you’ll need to complete an architecture-related degree at a program accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). Seventeen jurisdictions also provide other ways to complete your education requirements.

Did you already earn a related degree, but not from a program accredited by the NAAB? Check out the NCARB Education Standard, which may allow you to still receive credit toward your licensure. 

2) Experience: Gain On-the-Job Experience

Just like doctors, teachers, and therapists must get real-world experience before they can practice on their own, so must prospective architects. In general, you need to log over 3,700 hours under the supervision of a licensed architect, working on real projects, before moving on to the next step. 

Fortunately, you can gain this experience while working at an architectural firm — as a paid intern or an associate, for example — which may also allow you to begin building professional connections and/or tee up a position for yourself after achieving licensure.

3) Examination: Pass the National Exam

No matter your U.S. jurisdiction, you’ll have to pass the Architect Registration Examination® (ARE®) before you can apply for your license. This is an extensive test with six different divisions designed to evaluate your knowledge and readiness to effectively practice architecture. 

Most jurisdictions will let you sit for the exam while also earning your experience, but either way you should expect significant test prep. According to YoungArchitect.com, most people take about two-and-a-half years to complete the exam process.

4) Application: Apply for Your License

It’s finally time to apply to be a licensed architect. By now, this should be the easy part — and hopefully you’ll soon be celebrating success with loved ones and colleagues alike!

Dive Deeper into the Details
Interested in learning more about how to become an architect? Both the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) provide extensive online guides, mapping the journey to become a licensed architect in the United States. To set you up for success, make sure to utilize their tools for learning the exact licensing requirements for your specific jurisdiction.

You Don’t Have to Be an Architect to Work in Architecture

If you’re unsure whether you want to pursue licensure, rest assured there is still a variety of other ways you can still do integral work at an architectural firm! Here at GAEA, for instance, our team consists of much more than licensed architects. You might find a fit in another role within the architecture and design industry, such as: 

• Project manager
• Architectural associate
• Interior designer or associate
• Administrator or executive assistant 
• Accountant

While you’re deciding your direction, an internship is a great way to explore the field while gaining valuable experience that you may be able to count toward future licensure!

Join a Dynamic Team in the Knoxville Area

Interested in finding your fit with a leading architecture firm in Knoxville? At GAEA, we’re always accepting applications from like-minded individuals who want to work in East Tennessee. If you’re a hard-working, detail-oriented, and positive team player, we’d love to hear from you!

Reach out on our site or email us at info@georgeewart.com to see what role you could play on our creative team.