If you’ve already earned a degree from a program not accredited by the NAAB, you can still pursue an architecture license—and an NCARB Certificate—through these options. If you’re not sure whether or not your degree is from a NAAB-accredited program, check the NAAB’s list of programs.

Additional Experience for Initial Licensure

Currently, 17 jurisdictions offer pathways to initial licensure for applicants who don't hold a degree from a NAAB-accredited program—including those with other architecture-related degrees, unrelated degrees, and no degree. The amount of additional experience depends on the individual licensing board and your education background. Explore the requirements for specific jurisdictions through our Licensing Requirements Tool.

Additional Education

You can also choose to satisfy your jurisdiction’s education requirement by supplementing your existing education. You can do this in one of two ways:

  • Return for an advanced degree from a NAAB-accredited program (i.e., pursuing a Master of Architecture degree).
  • Acquire an EESA evaluation, which compares your academic transcript to the NCARB Education Standard to determine if you need additional coursework. You would then complete additional courses to satisfy any deficiencies in your education, at which point the NAAB would be able to determine that your education is equivalent to a degree from a NAAB-accredited program.

Certification and Reciprocal Licensure

If you are already licensed to practice architecture in a U.S. jurisdiction but do not hold a degree from a NAAB-accredited program, you can seek NCARB certification through the Education Alternative. Under the Education Alternative, you will be assigned one of two paths based on NCARB's evaluation of your education background: 

  • If NCARB determines you have a four-year degree related to architecture, you can document two times the requirements of the Architectural Experience Program® (AXP®) to satisfy the education requirement for certification. Experience already reported to NCARB as part of your path initial licensure would count toward this requirement. 
  • If NCARB determines you have any other degree or no degree, you can create a Certificate portfolio offering examples of your work as a licensed architect tied to each of the categories of the NCARB Education Standard. 

Once you're NCARB-certified, you can apply for reciprocal license in one of the 48 jurisdictions that accepts NCARB Certificates earned through the Education Alternative. You can learn more about education alternatives and the NCARB Education Standard in the Education Guidelines.