<p>There are many paths to becoming an architect in the US and the options are confusing. First, two disclaimers: I’m not an architect but the parent of an MArch grad who is currently working his way through the licensing process. Second, there are exceptions all over the place, and each program and each firm is a little different. There’s no right answer.</p>
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<li>When you apply to a BArch program you usually apply directly to the school of architecture and start the architecture curriculum on day one. Some admissions require portfolios; some do not. </li>
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<p>For the BA or BS in architectural studies or any other field you generally apply to the college or university’s liberal arts school, then declare your major sometime sophomore year. You may need to submit a portfolio or fulfill other requirements to be accepted in the major, but at the time of your initial application to the parent college the requirements are the same as everyone else’s. </p>
<p>The drop out rate from BArch programs is significant so I would think colleges are colleges are accustomed to absorbing former architecture students into other disciplines. </p>
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<li><p>My observation is that it’s fairly common to get an MArch on top of a BArch. The major overlap is studio, but since every studio is different that’s really not a duplication. I’d say that having a BArch is an advantage in getting into MArch programs. Many schools have two levels of MArch degrees, one for students with a prior architecture degree, one for those with other majors. Completion time for the MArch can vary from 1.5 to 3.5 years. Students can place out of course requirements depending on their undergraduate experience, though some MArch programs require that you take the whole cycle. </p></li>
<li><p>The primary element in admissions to an MArch program is a strong portfolio. Undergraduate grades, letters of recommendation, personal statements and GRE scores are also considered. Like undergraduate admissions, MArch programs are also looking for a balanced class, so demographics like gender, race and life experience are taken into account Work experience in any professional architecture or construction environment is a plus. </p></li>
<li><p>Plenty of people work for architecture firms who don’t have BArchs or MArchs. These jobs may be in auxiliary functions like marketing or model making or they may be on non-career design paths. Generally the starting salaries would be lower than those offered BArch/MArchs, but again, it depends on the firm and the job.</p></li>
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<p>Bear in mind that even with a BArch or MArch, in order to be a licensed architect you still need to complete the licensing process, which entails specific work experience and a series of exams and can take several years. Many firms will help their interns achieve this goal.</p>
<p>Some other points:
I think embarking on a BArch is a serious decision requiring a mature commitment to architecture that few high school students are prepared to make. Summer career exploration programs can help you decide if architecture is for you, but the intensity of the BArch program is hard to grasp until you’ve experienced it. </p>
<p>The other major point to consider is the money: BArch programs are often funded by need or merit based financial aid like other undergraduate degrees. Although some grants are available for MArch programs they are not generous and graduating with a pole of debt is not uncommon. </p>
<p>So basically the BArch is the fastest and most focused route, but allows for less experimentation in other fields. The BA/BS + MArch takes longer and therefore costs more, but offers a wider undergraduate experience. The choice is really personal.</p>