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Architect

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AVG. SALARY

$76,590

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EDUCATION

Bachelor's degree

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JOB OUTLOOK

Stable

What To Learn

High School

What high school courses should you take if you're interested in this career? Get your answers from the Architecture and Construction cluster Design/Pre-Construction pathway.

Beyond High School

Here's a list of programs that you should consider if you're interested in this career:

Education Level

Education training and experience are required at different levels for success in different occupations.

Bachelor's degree

There are typically three main steps to becoming a licensed architect: completing a bachelor's degree in architecture, gaining relevant experience through a paid internship, and passing the Architect Registration Examination.

Insider Info

Additional Information

To become a licensed architect, the first step is to attend a professional architecture degree program. In the U.S., there are 175 programs in 139 institutions of higher learning in the U.S. and abroad accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board.

Degree options include the bachelor of architecture (four or five years), master of architecture (two to four years), or doctor of architecture (variable, depending on previous education).

A bachelor of architecture degree is the most common starting point for students with no previous experience. There is a period of practical training required after graduation. There is also a licensing exam.

"Get a good education. It really is an important investment for your future," says Sue Clark. "If you can go to school for two years or four, consider what your options will be after both. Don't do a program just because it's faster."

Extra Requirements

All states and the District of Columbia require architects to be licensed. State licensing requirements can be found at the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB).

For additional information, visit these websites:

Contact

  • Email Support

  • 1-800-GO-TO-XAP (1-800-468-6927)
    From outside the U.S., please call +1 (424) 750-3900

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OCAP believes that financial literacy and understanding the financial aid process are critical aspects of college planning and student success. OCAP staff who work with students, parents, educators and community partners in the areas of personal finance education, state and federal financial aid, and student loan management do not provide financial, investment, legal, and/or tax advice. This website and all information provided is for general educational purposes only, and is not intended to be construed as financial, investment, legal, and/or tax advice.