Interested in studying architecture? It’s important to understand the options available to you and how they can shape your future career path. NCARB is here to provide the guidance and resources you’ll need to become an architect, beginning with earning your architectural education.
What degree do you need to be an architect?
To become an architect, you’ll need to earn a license, which includes meeting your state's (also called a jurisdiction) education requirement. There is no one degree required to become an architect, but the degree you pursue can affect your future licensure options:
- Degree from a NAAB-accredited program: Most—but not all—jurisdictions require that applicants for initial licensure earn a degree in architecture from a program accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). These include both five-year Bachelor of Architecture programs and six-year (four years of undergraduate school + two years of graduate school) Master of Architecture programs.
- Other college degree: Some jurisdictions offer additional licensure pathways for individuals with some other college degree. These can include options for applicants with degrees related to architecture or unrelated degrees. Through these pathways, you'll typically earn additional professional experience to supplement your education.
- No college degree: Several jurisdictions also offer pathways for individuals with no degree. Through these pathways, you will earn professional experience in lieu of earning a degree.
Curious if the jurisdiction where you want to be licensed requires a degree from a NAAB-accredited program? Check NCARB's Licensing Requirements Tool—select "Additional experience can be accepted as an alternative to the education requirement for initial registration" to explore jurisdictions with additional pathways. Learn more about education alternatives for initial licensure.
What is NAAB accreditation?
NAAB accreditation is separate from a school’s regional or national accreditation and applies solely to architecture programs. Accredited degrees will have “Arch.” as part of the degree title, like B. Arch. or M. Arch. Any program that offers a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in architecture is not NAAB-accredited. Learn more about NAAB-accreditation.
What if my architecture program isn't NAAB-accredited?
Many architecture programs aren't accredited by the NAAB. If you earned a degree from a non-accredited program, you have still have options:
- Earn an additional degree: You can earn an additional degree (often a Master of Architecture degree) from a NAAB-accredited program. While expensive, this option typically opens the most pathways to initial licensure.
- Pursue additional experience: You can earn your initial license in one of the 17 jurisdictions that offers additional pathways outside of a degree from a NAAB-accredited program. Typically, this involves earning additional professional experience.
Integrated Path to Architectural Licensure (IPAL)
IPAL is an option offered within some accredited programs. It provides students with the opportunity to complete the experience and examination requirements for licensure while earning their degree. For dedicated students, this can provide an accelerated path to licensure in as little as six years.
Freedom by Design
The Freedom by Design™ program encourages architecture students to put their skills to use by improving the safety and accessibility of homes and community spaces, while earning experience that can count toward AXP.
Study Architecture
Need more information about getting an architectural education? Visit the ACSA's Study Architecture website to find the right school for you, learn more about the industry, and explore potential career opportunities.
