Becoming an Architect : To Do List

By me continuing the process of Becoming an Architect as opposed to being a New Student and Living in California, my first steps may be a little different from yours! But with any career it is wise to document what all you must do to become successful in that field. Once you've listed what it is that you need to do you can begin to tackle your to do list!


(Cast Architecture Glenageary Addition)

First I would like to apologize for not giving this blog as much attention as I probably should. It's just that it's kinda hard to get things moving without a JOB! LOL. This is the first to-do list I've put together in becoming a Licensed Architect by the age of 34!

-8 years post -secondary education and or work/experience

I have about 1 more year of education to go and I'll be qualified in this area.

-Work for 1 year under a licensed Architect.

-Complete the comprehensive Intern Development Program.

I was excited to find out there were some firms in my area that participates in IDP program! Yes, I can't wait to contact them about open oppurtunities with their firms. But as I stated before it'll be another year before I can apply for that!

Christopher McFadden Architect
Smith Consulting Architects
WWCOT/Mills Architects

-Take and pass the ARE.
Whom's prices are go going up up up from $170 to $210 per division,in which there are seven.

On 1 October 2009 the new rate of $210 per division will take effect. Candidates can schedule future exam appointments through 31 December 2009 at the current rate of $170 per division

Programming, Practice & Practice
Site Planning & Design
Building Design & Construction Systems
Schematic Designs
Structural Systems
Building Systems
Construction Documents & Services

(If you are in the field of Architecture what books do you recommend would be helpful in studying for the ARE)

-Take and pass the CSE.

I'm not sure what all that is yet! But I'll get back with you on it!

As you can probably tell there are some really big steps I'm going to have to take before I can become an licensed Architect in the State of California! In the meantime I'm going to start my NCARB record (a database that keeps track of your educational and work experience that qualifies you for ARE testing). Like with anything there are fees ($285/$100 for students upfront or recent graduated within 6 months) associated with this process!

I can't wait to start tackling my To-Do list. In fact I feel better already!

Sincerely,

Aspiring Architect

All that schooling....

I was excited to find that all of that schooling I did may actually pay off. Although I did not complete my 5 years at LSU in the Architecture Program I have done 2 years in Architecture, 2 years in Construction Managment, about 3 months under NSCR, 2.5 years at a technical college for drafting, and had my own construction company (that flopped) for about 3 years registered. I think that is enough to get me in the door to take the ARE.

California is the only state that allows you to take the ARE based on education and experience. You do not have to have your B.A. Wouldn't it be grand if I could reach my goal of becoming a licensed Architect before the age of 34?

I still need to brush up on my technical drawings, CAD, and model making but when I ran across this information it brought joy to my heart. So my first step is getting my transcripts from these colleges! Wish me luck!

"The Board requires a total of five years of educational and/or work experience credit. This requirement can be met in any of the following ways:

By obtaining a professional degree in architecture from a program accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) or the Canadian Architectural Certification Board (CACB)*
By a combination of a non-accredited degree in architecture or other discipline plus work experience under the direct supervision of a licensed architect
Solely by work experience under the direct supervision of a licensed architect
*Note that unlike many other states, California does NOT require an accredited degree in architecture for examination and licensure. The NAAB-accredited degree is the most common path and helps tremendously if you wish to practice in other states.

Satisfying the Education Requirement

To be eligible to begin the examination and licensure process in California you must provide verification of at least five years of education and/or architectural work experience.

You can satisfy this five-year requirement in various ways:

Provide verification of a three-year, five-year or six-year professional degree in architecture from a program that is accredited by NAAB or CACB, or
Provide verification of at least five years of educational equivalents:
You will receive a maximum of four years of credits for a professional architecture degree from a non-accredited program (e.g., not accredited by NAAB or CACB).
The Board grants varying amounts of credit for other degrees and for units earned toward degrees. This might include an undergraduate degree in architecture, a degree in a field related to architecture or in another field, and (to a limited extent) units earned toward some degrees, and/or
The Board-approved work experience under the direct supervision of a licensed architect"-

If you too are aspiring to be an Architect I hope this information was helpful if you need more information check out the links to the left! And for a treat check out the worlds smallest house?




Smooches,

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