I have a question about licensure. I got my 4 year B.Arch and have always wanted to run my own design-build firm that focuses on downtown redevelopment. I got a one-year Master of Urban Design degree, which was awesome, but I am not set up for licensure in anything. Should I go back to school for another M. Arch program and be in school for literally 7 years just to gain licensure, or is there a better approach to being able to run my own design-build urban design firm?
I really would like to be licensed, but I am just not sure it is worth the time and investment, but I hate being in school for so long and not having any sort of title at the same time.
As tintt stated, some states allow you to get licensed with a 4 year degree. I would also check the state's regulations; some states require you to be licensed if you are the majority owner of a business that provides architectural services.
Licensing requirements are typically necessary for real professions (architects, doctors, lawyers, etc.) capable of incurring lawsuits as a result of gross negligence. Those "tough exams" are to separate the men from the boys.
For the life of me, I can't fathom what negligence occurs from urban designing when everything is spelled out in city zoning resolutions.
I am genuinely curious as to how a firm would engage in design-build urban design? It seems like there would be very few clients working at such a scale unless you are also the developer doing something like New Urbanist developments.
That's the thing, new urbanism could be great. I am down for doing townhomes, facade renovations, and other practical methods to create charming urban areas
Should an Urban Designer Pursue Licensure
I have a question about licensure. I got my 4 year B.Arch and have always wanted to run my own design-build firm that focuses on downtown redevelopment. I got a one-year Master of Urban Design degree, which was awesome, but I am not set up for licensure in anything. Should I go back to school for another M. Arch program and be in school for literally 7 years just to gain licensure, or is there a better approach to being able to run my own design-build urban design firm?
I really would like to be licensed, but I am just not sure it is worth the time and investment, but I hate being in school for so long and not having any sort of title at the same time.
Thoughts?
Some states allow you to get licensed with the 4-year. Or how about getting a contractor's license?
As tintt stated, some states allow you to get licensed with a 4 year degree. I would also check the state's regulations; some states require you to be licensed if you are the majority owner of a business that provides architectural services.
I thought the point of becoming an Urban Designer these days is to avoid licensing and tough exams?
LMAO.
I concur with AlinaF.
Licensing requirements are typically necessary for real professions (architects, doctors, lawyers, etc.) capable of incurring lawsuits as a result of gross negligence. Those "tough exams" are to separate the men from the boys.
For the life of me, I can't fathom what negligence occurs from urban designing when everything is spelled out in city zoning resolutions.
Why not get an AICP instead and partner with someone who is an RA?
I am genuinely curious as to how a firm would engage in design-build urban design? It seems like there would be very few clients working at such a scale unless you are also the developer doing something like New Urbanist developments.
That's the thing, new urbanism could be great. I am down for doing townhomes, facade renovations, and other practical methods to create charming urban areas
I am an Urban Designer, and all day long I tell architects with "real professions" what to do. But I suggest getting an AICP license.
If you worry about titles just call yourself an urbanist. https://archinect.com/forum/th...
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