NCARB recently released the Competency Standard for Architects, which was developed with input from thousands of practicing architects. The Competency Standard establishes 16 knowledge, skills, abilities and behaviors—called competencies—that define the capabilities necessary at the point of architectural licensure.
NCARB is using the Competency Standard to develop and implement updates to its programs and services, including the Architect Registration Examination® (ARE®) and Architectural Experience Program (AXP®). The changes will focus on aligning our programs with the competencies defined in the Competency Standard. Changes to the AXP are expected in late 2025-early 2026, while updates to the ARE are expected in mid-2026.
In this series, we’re exploring each of the three competency domains, providing all the information you need to get a head start on understanding the Competency Standard. We recently explored the first domain, Design & Documentation, which focuses on the creative skills involved in the design process. Now, we’ll explore the second domain, Construction Administration.
Construction Administration
The Construction Administration domain has a much narrower scope than the Design & Documentation Doman—it features just two of the 16 competencies. Construction Administration encompasses the services that architects provide to support the process of project procurement, design delivery, and construction. This includes project closeout procedures and post-occupancy evaluation. Although only two competencies, each addresses the core skills of what every architect must be able to do to effectively guide a project through construction, administer documentation, and evaluate progress.
Competencies required at the point of initial licensure include:
9. Prepare and administer documentation of the construction phase. As part of this competency, you’ll develop the ability to advise clients on which procurement methods suit their needs, ensure that construction documentation is delivered and maintained accurately, and perform closeout activities. The variety and purpose of many types of documents are experienced during construction (e.g., applications for payment, requests for information, submittals, etc.), and competent architects can manage and execute them all to ensure the project advances appropriately.
10. Evaluate the progress of construction for conformance with contract documents and design intent. This competency focuses on developing the skills required to complete site visits, oversee construction schedules and their impacts on the client, navigate inspection processes, and evaluate the completed project to ensure it meets the design intent.
To explore Construction Administration and each competency domain further, download the Competency Standard for Architects.
