Earn a Degree

A candidate looks up resources through Destination Architect to begin their journey to licensure.

Guide to a Career in Architecture

Explore the basics of pursuing a career in architecture, including how to get started, key skills, and more!

Education Guidelines

This document provides detailed information about meeting the education requirement for licensure, including requirements for foreign-educated applicants.

Download Guidelines

Verify Your Transcript

Once you’ve graduated, be sure to have your transcripts sent to NCARB so we can verify them in your Record.

How to Verify

To become an architect, you’ll need to meet your jurisdiction’s education requirement. In most jurisdictions, this means earning a degree in architecture from a program accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). But 17 jurisdictions offer additional pathways to initial licensure for applicants with other (or no) college degrees, and even more offer reciprocal licensure pathways outside of an accredited education.

Participating in an Integrated Path to Architectural Licensure (IPAL) option—currently offered at 31 NAAB-accredited programs—can help you earn a license shortly after graduation by completing your experience and examination requirements while earning a degree.

Guide to a Career in Architecture

Education Guidelines

Verify Your Transcript

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