Congratulations on choosing to pursue a career in Architecture!

The AIAWHV membership feels a student's decision to study architecture should be determined by talent and perseverance, not limited by financial status. To facilitate this sentiment, AIAWHV offers two scholarship to Aspiring Architects currently enrolled as an undergraduate or graduate student at an NAAB accredited School of Architecture. Scholarships are supported by AIA national and our Golf Outing Fundraiser. Find out more by clicking the link below.

Experience 

After you complete your education you’ll have to earn and document a certain amount of professional experience to ensure you’re ready to be an architect. The Architectural Experience Program™ (AXP™) provides a framework to guide you through developing and recording that experience. And the best part? You can start as soon as you graduate from high school. Explore the AXP.

Examination 

Another key part of becoming an architect is completing the Architect Registration Examination® (ARE®). With exam divisions designed to reflect the current profession, the ARE ensures that you’re ready to practice architecture independently. Prepare for the ARE.

Licensure and Certification

Once you’ve met the education, experience, and examination requirements, as well as any additional requirements set by your licensing board, you can apply for a license to practice architecture in your jurisdiction. After you’re licensed, you can advance you career and streamline your ability to practice across borders by earning an NCARB Certificate.

Have more questions? Please contact Valerie Brown at vbrown@aiawhv.org.

Interested in pursuing a career in Architecture? Below is some basic but important information to consider in your College search.

NAAB-ACCREDITED VS. NON-NAAB ACCREDITED PROGRAMS

The NAAB is an agency that evaluates architecture programs in the United States to ensure that graduates have the technical and critical thinking skills required to have a rewarding career in the profession. The NAAB’s accreditation is independent of the school’s overall accreditation.

Most of the 55 U.S. licensing boards require that architects hold a professional degree from a NAAB-accredited program, which include bachelor of architecture, master of architecture, and doctor of architecture programs. Additionally, NCARB requires a degree from a NAAB-accredited program to satisfy the education requirement for certification.

LOOKING FOR A NAAB-ACCREDITED PROGRAM? SEARCH THE NAAB’S LIST.

Many schools offer architecture programs that have not been accredited by the NAAB. Graduates of these non-accredited programs will be limited in terms of where they can practice, as well as have additional requirements to earn an architecture license and NCARB Certificate.

Learn about your licensure and certification options if you choose to pursue a degree from a program that is not accredited by the NAAB.

Have more questions? Please contact Valerie Brown at vbrown@aiawhv.org.

HIGH SCHOOL

YOUTH

AIAWHV has established local programs to support young leaders by partnering our generous Design Professionals with local communities. These programs include:

Shadow an Architect for a Day

After School Design Club

“Future” Design Summer Camp??!! Ray Beeler?

To learn more, check out : AIA NYS's Architecture + Education Program Booklet 

For more information or to partner with AIAWHV on these programs, please contact Valerie Brown at vbrown@aiawhv.org.