What's the master's worth?
What is your likelihood of moving to another state?
I never thought my 4 year Berkeley BA Arch was a problem until I married someone and 10 years later found myself living in Michigan for 7 years. California is the exception, not the rule, as most states require a professional degree or NCARB (which generally requires a professional degree, not just undergrad) to qualify for a license. At one point I tried to jump all the hoops to get the NCARB "Broadly Experienced Architect" certification, but it is extremely expensive, and you have to find course descriptions for all the classes you did take, pay reviewers to confirm the validity of your classes, experience, etc. I finally gave up on it and worked for another architect, without my own license in the state of MI for all 7 years. It was not a good situation to be in. Fortunately I moved back to CA and resumed practice here. Good luck with your decision.
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Lisa Meniketti AIA
Architect / Project Manager
Ratcliff Architects
Emeryville, CA
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Original Message:
Sent: 04-07-2011 00:25
From: Mehdi Sabet
Subject: What is a Masters in Architecture worth in the State of CA when you can become a license Architect without it?
Dear Karla,
Given the economic climate (60% unemployment of architects) and sad state of architecture education, and the opportunity to work for four years in the design and construction field with income and precious experience sounds too perfect. However, I would make absolutely certain that this scenario is acceptable in California for obtaining architectural license.
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Mehdi Sabet AIA
Associate Professor
American University of Sharjah
University City, Sharjah
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Original Message:
Sent: 04-06-2011 16:18
From: Karla Lockhart
Subject: What is a Masters in Architecture worth in the State of CA when you can become a license Architect without it?
This message has been cross posted to the following Discussion Forums: Committee on Architecture for Education and Young Architects Forum .
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I have a huge dilemma to discuss - Whether or not to get my Masters in Architecture (first professional) or continue to work at my new job in these hard times. I have been accepted into several programs but they require me to put in more money through student loans as well as change my location. I have thought about the pros and cons and they are about even.
My question - is a Masters in Architecture (First Professional) worth the investment in the building industry? I live in California and according to their rules, I can get license without my professional degree. I just need 4 years of work experience (which I do have) before I can begin taking the AREs.
How many design/building professionals out there have their masters in architecture and does it make a huge difference in their lives (income, titles, status, etc)? Never mind getting license as an Architect. What are your thoughts and opinions?
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Karla Lockhart Assoc. AIA
Designer
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