Career roadmap
How to Become an Architect
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as an architect, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become an architect: (1) earn a B.Arch or M.Arch, (2) complete AXP, (3) pass the ARE, (4) get licensed, (5) advance. Most people need about 5–7 years of school plus internship. BLS lists “bachelor's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become an architect
Earn a B.Arch or M.Arch
NAAB-accredited.
Complete AXP
Supervised experience.
Pass the ARE
Exams.
Get licensed
State.
Advance
Project architect or principal.
Education and training requirements
A professional degree in architecture (B.Arch or M.Arch), an internship and a license are required.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Bachelor's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | Internship/residency |
| Typical training time | 5–7 years of school plus internship |
Certifications and licenses
- State architect license: Required.
- ARE: Architect Registration Examination.
- LEED AP: Green building credential.
- NCARB certificate: Multi-state practice.
Skills to build now
Start with design, revit and cad, and building codes, and practice creativity and communication. Learning the architect vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Architectural Designer: Entry.
- Licensed Architect: Licensed.
- Project Architect: Lead projects.
- Principal: Lead firm.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Architect training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long does it take to become an architect?
Often 8 to 10 years including school, internship and exams.
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.
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.
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.