How much schooling do you need for architechure
How many years of college do need to be an architect. #architect #architecture #design #college
2 answers

Kelly M. Brennan, RA, AIA, NICET
Kelly M.’s Answer
Many state licensure boards require Architects to have what is called a Professional Degree: Bachelor of Architecture, Master of Architecture. These professional degrees require a minimum of 5 years of college, in general.
These programs are monitored by NAAB and NCARB.
Not every state requires the professional degree, some states allow work experience to count towards education.
I started my college education in a 5 year professional program but changed my mind after 4 years. I graduated with a Bachelor of Art, not Architecture.
I spent 15 years working before I decided to apply for a license.
I applied to the Pennsylvania state board and had a special hearing where I demonstrated my education and work experiences. They voted to allow me to sit for the Architect Registration Exams.
I studied for many hours, sat for 5 very long exams and passed each one.
Kelly M. recommends the following next steps:

Shraddha Srivastav Strennen RA, NCARB, LEED AP
Shraddha’s Answer
At minimum a Bachelors degree in an accredited professional program which is typically 5 years. After completing your degree you will be able to seek employment with an architecture firm. If you dream of working for particular firms then check to see if they tend to hire graduate degrees only. If you have a Bachelors in Architecture then a Masters will be an additional 2 years. If you Bachelors is in another field of study (i.e Art) then a Masters will be 3-3.5 years.
If you want to be licensed then you need to complete your AXP hours (www.ncarb.org will explain this process) and take the AREs. The time it takes to complete AXP varies greatly. Some firms are good about mentoring you through that process others are not. You also have to be self-motivated to complete these hours. AREs are the professional license examinations. Currently there are 6 exams. The time it takes to pass these varies per individual. You can schedule them to complete in a few months or take up to 5 years (I believe).