An economic analysis of the architectural profession

Abstract

Entry into the architectural profession, like other professions, is by the educational route. There are 150 schools of architecture and environmental design, an increase of 1 14 percent in the 10 years prior to 1975. Of these, 79 are accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board which guarantees that a minimum basic training has been provided. (Institute for Research 1965: no. 12; Biegel 1975) Scholastic programs vary, as does the educational level completed by graduates, from four or five years of schooling and a B.A. to masters' and even a few doctoral degree holders. From 1950 to 1975 the total number of degrees granted annually increased over 300 percent with the yearly average increase in the last half of the sixties about 1 1 percent per year. The gloomy outlook of the late 70s was reflected in a decrease of 18 percent from 1975 to 1977 (see Table I). The big change has been in the masters candidates, who represent about 21 percent of the total degrees granted, but whose numbers have grown some 722 percent since 1950. (U.S. Department of Commerce 1951: 124-1976: 147; Biegel 1975) While the trend towards more education is thus notable, some 60 percent of the profession hold the B.A. (often, however, earned in five years instead of four). Not all of an architect's training is academic. A paid apprenticeship in a licensed architect's office is a requirement in all states, but the length thereof varies. Currently the national accrediting board is suggesting two years for those holding 5-year B.A.s and one for graduates of 6-year programs, which presumably means an M.A., but most states require 3 years. In lieu of formal academic training most states will accept frojn 8 to 12 years of practical experience. (U.S. Department of Labor 1976-7: 548) 27