As a school with NAAB-accredited programs, our students are supported on their architectural licensure journey by our Licensing Advisor and IPAL Advisor.

A NAAB (National Architectural Accrediting Board) accredited degree is required for architectural licensure in most US states. This requirement can be met with a B.Arch degree or an M.Arch degree.

Some states, including California, allow additional work experience as an alternative to a NAAB-accredited degree. Students who earn a BA degree will have a path to licensure in these states if they meet the additional work experience requirement.

For entry-level jobs in architecture firms, the strength of the portfolio is the biggest determinant. Many architectural firms will list B.Arch or M.Arch as minimum qualification for entry-level jobs but if the portfolio is exceptionally strong, BA candidates can compete with B.Arch candidates. However, the absence of an architectural license will limit professional opportunities beyond the entry-level phase of the career.

NCARB is a national organization that oversees the paths to licensure in the US. It is important to note that architectural licensure is regulated and granted by each state in the US. As the requirements vary from state to state, students should research the requirements specific to their state.

The NCARB website provides a tool for understanding the differences in each state’s requirements for licensure: https://www.ncarb.org/get-licensed/licensing-requirements-tool

Here are links to additional information about licensure. Please click on the images.