The National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) is an agency that evaluates architecture programs in the United States to ensure that graduates are appropriately prepared to enter the profession. The NAAB’s accreditation is independent of the school’s overall accreditation. The NAAB also provides review services to evaluate degrees from non-accredited schools.
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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. However, 17 jurisdictions offer pathways to initial licensure for applicants who don't hold a degree from a NAAB-accredited program—including those with other architecture-related degrees, unrelated degrees, and no degree.
Non-accredited Architecture Programs
Many schools offer architecture programs that have not been accredited by the NAAB. If you earned a degree from a non-accredited program, you can still pursue an architecture license by doing one of the following:
- Earn an additional degree: You can earn an additional degree (often a Master of Architecture degree) from a NAAB-accredited program. While expensive, this option typically opens the most pathways to initial licensure.
- Pursue additional experience: You can earn your initial license in one of the 17 jurisdictions that offers additional pathways outside of a degree from a NAAB-accredited program. Typically, this involves earning additional professional experience.
Learn more about your licensure options.
