Why don't I see any women Architects?
I was watching a series on Netflix called " The World's Most Extraordinary Homes" and as the host of the show interviews these architects they are predominantly men that have sculpted these buildings. #architecture
3 answers
Jordan A.’s Answer
Hi Kristina,
It's because in the US there simply not as many of us. There are many steps to becoming a fully licensed architect here.
1) 5-7.5 years depending on what you chose for your undergraduate degree. I have a 4yr Interior Design degree and a 3.5 yr Master's degree in Architecture. At this stage in the process NCARB says there are more women than men as students in architecture school.
2) You log approximately 3 yrs of on the job. It's called AXP and you log several hundreds of hours to show that you worked on a range of tasks. It's supposed to make sure everyone has the same paid internship experience. It sounds scary but is by far the easiest part of becoming an architect. At this stage, at this stage NCARB says it's a similar mix. As long as your working in the field you can log AXP hours.
3) You have to pass all 6 divisions of the ARE. It's broken down loosely all the components of the design process. Each exam is $235 with a pass/fail rate of 50%. After collecting all recommended study materials and retaking several exams, it not uncommon to spend a $2000 on this step. It just a mentally exhausting as it is financially. They're is currently ia 5 year rolling clock on finishing your exams. This is the stage where NCARB notes a SHARP drop in women finishing this process. Passing all the ARE is ALOT. I can see the light at the end of the tunnel myself. 4 down, 2 to go. I think many woman choose not to put their lives on hold and then it's simply hard to get back into the testing mindset.
According to NCARB the average is about 13 years to become a licensed architect in the US. The School and Exams required aren't for the faint of heart but if you love it don't let anything stop you from diving in head first. Best of Luck!
Jordan A. recommends the following next steps:
Thaiz Ciolfi Cazzaro, CPSM
Thaiz’s Answer
Kristina, in my perception, in Brazil we may see a more gender balance representation on Architecture and women professionals are starting gaining more space on the media (TV reality shows for example) and decorations fairs.
If you want to choose this career, my suggestion is that you prepare yourself as a good professional and build an influential network that will be proud to recommend your great architecture skills to their friends :) Good Luck!
Moe’s Answer
Any how all the brand architects and architectural companies need to hire too many senior and junior architects who take part in projects and their names are on them.
Good Luck