FAQ
Architect FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as an architect.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming an architect: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about architects
How long does it take to become an architect?
Often 8 to 10 years including school, internship and exams.
Do architects need a license?
Yes, to call yourself an architect.
Is the job growing?
BLS projects about average growth.
How much does an architect make?
The median annual wage for architects was $99,280 ($47.73 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $62,300 and the highest 10% earned more than $161,420.
How long does it take to become an architect?
Most people need about 5–7 years of school plus internship of training. A professional degree in architecture (B.Arch or M.Arch), an internship and a license are required.
Do you need a degree to be an architect?
Yes. Architects need a professional degree in architecture from an NAAB-accredited program, a multi-year internship through AXP, and a passing score on the Architect Registration Examination.
Is architect a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +4.3% from 2025–35 (about as fast as average), with about 6,900 openings each year. Upsides include creative and technical; a common challenge is that long path to license.
What skills does an architect need?
Key technical skills include design, revit and cad, building codes, and construction documents. Employers also value creativity, communication, and problem-solving.
What certifications are available for architects?
Common credentials include State architect license, ARE, LEED AP, and NCARB certificate. Architects must be licensed by the state, which requires an accredited degree, experience and the ARE.
Still deciding?
Try the Architect fit quiz, compare with Landscape Architect, or explore Architect training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 17-1011 (Architects, except landscape and naval).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Architects, except landscape and naval (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.