When someone asks what I do for a living, I usually say I am an architectural designer. I am an architect in training since I still need to pass many exams in order to become licensed. So, for those of you who do not know how one becomes an architect, let me explain.
Step 1: Attend a NCARB (National Council of Architectural Registration Boards) accredited program.
Step 2: Experience through IDP (Internship Development Program) – accumulate 5,600 hours in specific areas of learning.
Step 3: Take the 7 ARE (Architectural Registration Examination) sections
1. Programming Planning & Practice
2. Site Planning & Design
3. Building Design & Construction Systems
4. Schematic Design
5. Structural Systems
6. Building Systems
7. Construction Documents and Services
Step 4: Take the CSE (California Supplemental Exam)
When you pass and complete the above steps, then you finally become an architect. This process, after your education, takes at least 3-5 years. I am currently finishing my hours for the IDP and beginning to study for the ARE’s. When I finished school a few year ago, I was excited to start working in the real world and understand how the business actually works. I was also excited about leaving my work at work and enjoying my life at home. Well three years have passed and well, that break is over. In order to study for the ARE’s, I need to exam our practices in the office as well as learn many more areas in architecture. You can say it has been a slow process reverting back to becoming a “student” again.
Keep a look out for updates on my attempt to tackle the ARE.