I have been in the architectural profession for over twenty-eight years. While working for principle architects, I have personally designed and produced projects that exceed a total of $500,000,000.00 in construction related cost. These projects include everything from high rise residential towers to commercial developments. I have overseen all phases of these projects as well as managed staff and engineering consultants. However, I only hold an Associates Degree in Architecture. At the age of forty-eight I find myself at a "fork in the road". Most of us involved in the architectural or construction industry has experienced a severe downturn over the past three to four years. I wonder to myself if I should take the time now and go for the advanced degree in order to become eligible for registration or give up on the whole thing and "sell insurance" for a living. Having the desire, a solid portfolio and years of training under my belt, I feel pretty confident that I could make a great architect and ride that roller coaster into my twilight years. I just can't envision spending five years or more going to school. Does anyone have any suggestions for me. I'd like to know if my experience would allow me to advance quickly through the degree process.
Unless thing have changed, 15 years verified work experience in an architect's office qualifies you to sit for the test regardless of degrees earned.
Jul 31, 11 12:18 am ·
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It depends on the laws of the state. Check with the licensing board of the state in which one wants to get licensed. Some states have removed the experience in lieu of degree alternative path.
This is determine by state not NCARB. NCARB model law would require NAAB accredited degree - period. However, states adopt laws and rules according to their decisions not NCARB. Therefore, look to the state. Almost all require completion of IDP.
most states allow you to get licensed while not living there take the test in New York,Colorado, + others..and I think then you could apply for a reciprocal license from the NCARB BEA program maybe.
as stated above, your path to licensure will be through experience. unfortunately your AA degree in architecture and your experience will more than likely not be considered if you pursue a professional degree in architecture.
you may need to start or complete the IDP program before you start the testing process, depending on which state you choose for initial licensure.
scroll through the state requirements on the ncarb link below. there may be a couple of states that you can start the licensure process that allow registration through experience and do not require IDP. verify the state information through the state weblinks as ncarb can run behind on updating revisions to state regulations.
start the process soon as state regulations can change.
I need professional advice
I have been in the architectural profession for over twenty-eight years. While working for principle architects, I have personally designed and produced projects that exceed a total of $500,000,000.00 in construction related cost. These projects include everything from high rise residential towers to commercial developments. I have overseen all phases of these projects as well as managed staff and engineering consultants. However, I only hold an Associates Degree in Architecture. At the age of forty-eight I find myself at a "fork in the road". Most of us involved in the architectural or construction industry has experienced a severe downturn over the past three to four years. I wonder to myself if I should take the time now and go for the advanced degree in order to become eligible for registration or give up on the whole thing and "sell insurance" for a living. Having the desire, a solid portfolio and years of training under my belt, I feel pretty confident that I could make a great architect and ride that roller coaster into my twilight years. I just can't envision spending five years or more going to school. Does anyone have any suggestions for me. I'd like to know if my experience would allow me to advance quickly through the degree process.
Unless thing have changed, 15 years verified work experience in an architect's office qualifies you to sit for the test regardless of degrees earned.
It depends on the laws of the state. Check with the licensing board of the state in which one wants to get licensed. Some states have removed the experience in lieu of degree alternative path.
This is determine by state not NCARB. NCARB model law would require NAAB accredited degree - period. However, states adopt laws and rules according to their decisions not NCARB. Therefore, look to the state. Almost all require completion of IDP.
most states allow you to get licensed while not living there take the test in New York,Colorado, + others..and I think then you could apply for a reciprocal license from the NCARB BEA program maybe.
as stated above, your path to licensure will be through experience. unfortunately your AA degree in architecture and your experience will more than likely not be considered if you pursue a professional degree in architecture.
you may need to start or complete the IDP program before you start the testing process, depending on which state you choose for initial licensure.
scroll through the state requirements on the ncarb link below. there may be a couple of states that you can start the licensure process that allow registration through experience and do not require IDP. verify the state information through the state weblinks as ncarb can run behind on updating revisions to state regulations.
start the process soon as state regulations can change.
http://www.ncarb.org/en/Getting-an-Initial-License/Registration-Board-Requirements.aspx
http://www.ncarb.org/Experience-Through-Internships.aspx
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