Architecture is the imaginative blend of art and science in the design of environments for people. People need places to eat, work, live and play. Architects transform these needs into concepts and then develop the concepts into building images that can be constructed by others. These projects can be as small as an entrance way and as large as an entire college campus–and everything in between.

An architect serves in a leadership role to bring together the design and budgetary requirements set by the client, restraints of a site (where the building will be constructed), needs of the building’s users, and the limitations of materials into a unique and balanced design solution. Decision-making, team leadership and creativity are the key elements of making architecture.

ARCHcareers.org is the official the comprehensive guide to careers in architecture. It assists in learning more about the process of becoming an architect: 1. Education 2. Experience and 3. Examination. On this site you will also access essential information for your educational and career development, including:

• Roster of accredited schools in the United States and Canada
• Procedures and requirements for the Intern Development Program (IDP), including resources on mentoring and supplementary IDP education
• Procedures and requirements for the Architecture Registration Exam
• Suggested reading and other resources

Questions to Ask When Choosing an Architecture School
There are numerous questions that you should ask when exploring architecture schools, including questions on accreditation, curriculum and degree types.

Finding the Right School for You
There are many factors that you should consider when choosing an architecture school. Things like its location, areas of study offered (the “curriculum”) and more should be considered (see the “Questions to Ask…” for more ideas). The Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture offers archschools.org, a free online comprehensive database of architecture schools that can help you find the right one for you.

Summer Programs for High School Students
Learn about programs offered colleges and universities (updated each spring).

Student Scholarships
Throughout the year, numerous scholarships are made available. The AIAS publishes them on this site.

Suggested Reading
We recommend several publications which can help you prepare for a career in architecture and assist with your education. This list is published on ARCHcareers.org.

Pass Rates (by School) for the Architect Registration Examination
The Architect Registration Examination (ARE) examines candidates for their knowledge, skills, and ability to provide the various services required in the design and construction of buildings. Keep in mind that the ARE is a practice-based examination founded on education enhanced by experience. A candidate’s performance on the ARE is not based on education alone, it examines a combination of factors above and beyond the granting of a degree. The NCARB provides the pass rate scores by school.

Navigating the Job Search Process and Beyond
Read about one intern’s systematic effort to find the right job.

Elements of a Successful Design Portfolio
Here are some thoughts about how to prepare a portfolio from architects that have reviewed hundreds of them.

The following is a list of resources that can be helpful to students currently enrolled in architecture programs.

Student Performance Criteria for Accreditation »
Visitation Guide for Accreditation »
Guide to the Intern Development Program (IDP) »
Career Resources »
Discount Software Store »
Emerging Professionals Companion »