Advice On Becoming an Architect

This letter has been generated in response to questions typically asked by high school students pursuing an interest in becoming an architect.

There are three primary paths that a student may take to become a licensed Architect. It is important to note that it is not necessary nor even recommended that a student, especially one with diverse interests, pursue an undergraduate degree in architecture on the way to become an architect. One does need a Professional Degree in Architecture from an accredited School of Architecture. A Masters in Architecture fulfills this requirement. A person wishing to become an Architect is strongly encouraged to contact their State Licensing Board and ask for their specific requirements. While most states have similar licensing procedure, each state licenses it own professionals.

Paths to Licensure

[from the broad to the narrow]

1. Undergraduate degree: BS or BA in liberal arts or other subject area [4 years]; Graduate degree: Master of Architecture [3 years]*
2. Undergraduate degree: BS in Architecture [4 years]; Graduate degree: Master of Architecture [2 years]*
3. First Professional Degree in Architecture [5 years]

* Please note that length of professional degree programs vary by institution.

Students graduating from UVA’s BS in Architecture program are encouraged to work in the profession for 1 to 2 years before beginning their professional degree. There is an internship required before the licensing exams may be completed that usually takes three years of employment under the direct supervision of an Architect. This means that it can take upwards of ten years of study and apprenticeship to become an architect.

Suggestions for student who choose Path 1 or Path 2:

1. Take freehand drawing courses either offered by the University, a community college, local art gallery, or community continuing education program. Communicating ideas, intentions, relationships, and character through drawing is of the utmost importance. It is especially important for those students in Path 1 that these skills be evident in your portfolio, which will be a significant part of your application to graduate school. Portfolios are not required of students applying to the undergraduate Architecture program at the University of Virginia. Please note that drafting courses, whether by computer or manual methods, are of minimal value.
2. Contrary to popular belief or myth, a high degree of skill in math is not necessary in the practice of architecture. A high degree of skill in solving problems like those posed in most math courses is important. A student will find that a thorough knowledge of solid geometry backed up by Algebra-trig will be a complete preparation for any college math required.
3. Take Advanced Placement [AP] exams. Coming into college with either advanced placement or advanced standing can help a student reduce their academic load or help them make the most of their academic opportunities while at the University.
4. Consider how your undergraduate course of study will eventually connect with your graduate studies.

Information about the University of Virginia as well as particular information about the admissions process is located at the University of Virginia Undergraduate Office of Admission