How long does it take to become an architect?

Answer 1

How long it takes to become an architectOn average, it takes about 12 and a half years to become an architect in the United States—from the time you enroll in college to the moment you receive a license. Each jurisdiction sets its own requirements for licensure, so it’s a good idea to check with your state licensing board first.

• In most states, you’ll need to earn a degree from a program accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB)—a Bachelor of Architecture, Master of Architecture, or Doctor of Architecture.

• Once you graduate high school, you can start earning real-world experience through the Architectural Experience Program® (AXP™). To complete the program, candidates must document 3,740 hours across six experience areas.

• Finally, you’ll need to pass the Architect Registration Examination® (ARE®), which is the six-part national licensing exam. In most states, you can complete the AXP and take the exam at the same time.

After you do all of that, you may now legally call yourself an "architect!"

Architecture in the UK

To become an architect in the UK it requires a total of 5 years at university and 2 years of professional work placement.

It is split into 3 parts: you obtain your part 1 after 3 years of university study obtaining your bachelors of architecture and one year of work placement. Then a further two years of university secures you your part 2. To complete your part 3 requires another year of practice and the sitting of a final exam. Once qualified you register with the Architects Registration Board and then you can call yourself an architect.