There are three types of professional degrees in
architecture offered through colleges
and universities:
-
5-year Bachelor of Architecture programs intended
for students entering programs from high school or
with no previous architectural training
-
2-year Master of Architecture programs for students
with a preprofessional undergraduate degree in
architecture or a related area
-
3 or 4-year Master of Architecture programs offered
to students with degrees in other disciplines
Learn more here on our article on
Admissions.
In the United States those who want to provide
architectural services must be licensed.
To become licensed one must earn a professional degree
in architecture, complete a period of practical training
or internship, and pass all divisions of the ARE
(Architect Registration Examination). In most states,
continuing education is required to maintain licensure.
Generally, the professional degree in architecture must
be from a school of architecture accredited by the
National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). A few
states don't have this requirement.
Advancement of Architects:
A licensed architect, after gaining experience, may take
on increasingly responsible duties and eventual managing
entire projects. Architects may advance to supervisory
or managerial positions in large firms. Some become
partners in established firms while others set up their
own practices.
How Much Do Architects Earn?:
Median annual earnings of wage and salary architects
were $72,700 in 2009. Recent graduates working on
internships will earn much less. Those starting out in
private practices will go through a period of time when
they are operating at a loss.
Use the Salary
Wizard at
Salary.com to find out how much architects currently
earn in your city.
