The Architect Registration Examination (ARE) is a standardized exam that measures the knowledge and skills required to practice architecture in the United States.
The exam consists of six divisions that cover various aspects of architectural practice, including practice management, project management, programming and analysis, project planning and design, project development and documentation, and construction and evaluation.
To become a licensed architect in the United States, candidates must pass all six divisions of the ARE.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the core concepts covered in the US architecture exam.
It aims to help aspiring architects understand the exam’s structure, content, and requirements.
By providing a detailed analysis of each division, readers will gain a deeper understanding of the knowledge and skills necessary to pass the ARE and become a licensed architect in the US.
Key Takeaways
- The US Architecture Exam consists of six divisions covering various aspects of architectural practice, and candidates must pass all six divisions to become a licensed architect in the US.
- The exam evaluates competency in areas such as practice management, project management, programming and analysis, project planning and design, project development and documentation, and construction and evaluation.
- Conceptual and schematic design are critical initial steps in architectural project creation, involving site and environmental analysis, programming, zoning, and aesthetics.
- Architects must demonstrate the ability to apply knowledge to design safe, functional, and sustainable buildings across all phases of architectural project creation and management to pass the US Architecture Exam.
Overview of the Architect Registration Examination (ARE)
The Architect Registration Examination (ARE) is a comprehensive assessment tool that evaluates the competency of aspiring architects in various areas of professional practice. The exam is divided into six sections, each covering a specific area of architectural practice.
These sections include Building Systems, Construction Documents & Services, Programming & Analysis, Project Planning & Design, Site Planning & Design, and Structural Systems.
The ARE is designed to test the knowledge, skills and abilities of aspiring architects and ensure that they possess the necessary competencies to provide professional architectural services. The exam is administered by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) and is used by individual state licensing boards to determine eligibility for licensure.
The exam is computer-based and consists of multiple-choice questions, as well as case studies and performance-based tasks that test the candidates ability to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world situations.
Division 1: Practice Management
One significant aspect of the US architecture exam evaluates a candidate’s proficiency in managing architectural practices. This division of the exam covers various topics that test a candidate’s knowledge and skills related to running an architectural practice. Here are some of the core concepts covered in Division 1: Practice Management:
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Business Operations: This topic covers various aspects of running a business, such as financial management, marketing, and strategic planning. Candidates need to demonstrate their understanding of business operations and how they apply to architectural practices.
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Project Management: This topic focuses on the skills and knowledge required to manage architectural projects effectively. Candidates need to demonstrate their ability to plan, organize, and execute projects successfully, while ensuring they meet the client’s needs and expectations.
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Risk Management: This topic covers the identification and management of risks associated with architectural projects. Candidates need to demonstrate their understanding of potential risks and how to mitigate them, ensuring the success of the project while protecting the firm’s reputation and finances.
Division 2: Project Management
Division 2 of the US architecture exam covers essential topics related to project management. Two of the key points covered in this division are project planning and budgeting, as well as contract negotiation and administration.
These two topics are critical to achieving project goals, ensuring successful project completion, and managing the financial aspects of the project. Architects must have a thorough understanding of these concepts to excel in their profession.
Project planning and budgeting
Project planning and budgeting are crucial components in the US architecture exam, requiring a deep understanding of financial management, risk assessment, and project scheduling. Architects must have the ability to plan and execute projects within a set budget and timeline, while ensuring that the design meets the client’s needs and expectations.
The following are key concepts that architects must understand and apply in project planning and budgeting:
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Resource allocation: Architects must allocate resources effectively, including time, money, and staff, to ensure that the project stays within budget and meets the client’s needs.
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Risk management: Architects must identify and assess potential risks, such as changes in scope, materials, or unforeseen obstacles, and develop contingency plans to mitigate these risks.
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Cost estimation: Architects must be able to accurately estimate the cost of materials, labor, and other expenses to develop a realistic budget for the project. This requires knowledge of market trends, material costs, and labor rates, as well as the ability to anticipate potential changes in these factors.
In addition to these concepts, architects must also have strong communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with clients, contractors, and other stakeholders throughout the project planning and budgeting process.
Contract negotiation and administration
Architects must possess a deep understanding of contract negotiation and administration, as it involves managing legal agreements, ensuring compliance with regulations, and resolving disputes that may arise during the construction process.
Contract negotiation requires architects to understand the various types of contracts, such as fixed-price contracts, cost-plus contracts, and time and materials contracts. They must also be familiar with the legal implications of each type of contract and ensure that the terms and conditions are fair and equitable to both parties.
Contract administration involves managing the contract during the construction process, including monitoring the progress of the project, ensuring compliance with the contract terms, and resolving any disputes that may arise. Architects must be familiar with the various types of documentation required during the construction process, such as change orders, requests for information, and payment applications.
They must also be skilled in managing communication between the various parties involved in the project, including the owner, contractor, and subcontractors.
Overall, contract negotiation and administration are critical skills for architects to possess, as they are essential to ensuring the successful completion of a construction project.
Division 3: Programming and Analysis
The Programming and Analysis section of the US architecture exam covers the process of identifying and analyzing clients’ needs and constraints to establish project goals and objectives. This section requires architects to have a deep understanding of their clients’ requirements, including their functional, aesthetic, budgetary, and contextual needs. The architects must also consider the site, zoning regulations, building code requirements, and environmental impact of the project when developing the program.
To help architects navigate this complex process, the Programming and Analysis section of the exam is broken down into five main areas, including the following:
| Area | Description |
|---|---|
| Site Analysis | Understanding the site and its context, including natural and man-made features, zoning regulations, and environmental constraints. |
| Space Analysis | Identifying the functional requirements for the project, including the number and types of spaces needed, their size, and their relationships to one another. |
| Code Analysis | Understanding and applying building codes and regulations to ensure compliance and safety. |
| Sustainability Analysis | Assessing the environmental impact of the project and identifying opportunities for sustainable design strategies. |
| Technical Analysis | Evaluating the feasibility of the project from a technical standpoint, including structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. |
By mastering these five areas and understanding their interconnections, architects can develop comprehensive and effective programming and analysis strategies that meet the needs of their clients and comply with all relevant regulations and standards.
Division 4: Project Planning and Design
The fourth division of the US architecture exam focuses on project planning and design. Within this division, candidates are expected to demonstrate their understanding of conceptual design and schematic design, as well as site and environmental analysis.
Conceptual design involves developing a high-level vision for a project, while schematic design involves creating detailed plans and drawings.
Site and environmental analysis involve evaluating the physical characteristics and context of a site in order to inform the design process.
Conceptual design and schematic design
With a focus on the process of ideation and initial visualization, conceptual and schematic design serve as the critical initial steps in the creation of any architectural project.
Conceptual design refers to the exploration of the initial ideas and concepts behind the project. This phase involves brainstorming, research, and analysis to establish the project’s goals, objectives, and design direction. The aim is to create a concept that fulfills the needs and desires of the client while adhering to the project constraints and regulations.
Schematic design, on the other hand, involves translating the conceptual design into more detailed and comprehensive plans. It is the more technical phase of design, where the architect produces drawings, diagrams, and models that illustrate the project’s spatial and formal qualities. This phase requires a thorough understanding of building systems, materials, and construction techniques, as well as knowledge in codes and regulations.
The following are some of the key elements that architects consider during the conceptual and schematic design phases:
- Site analysis and evaluation
- Programming and space planning
- Site and building zoning and regulations
- Design principles and aesthetics
Site and environmental analysis
Site and environmental analysis is a crucial step in the architectural design process that involves studying the natural and built environment of the site to understand its potential opportunities and limitations. This analysis is vital in creating a successful design that is functional, sustainable, and aesthetically pleasing. Site analysis involves gathering data on various factors such as topography, climate, hydrology, vegetation, and existing structures. Environmental analysis, on the other hand, focuses on studying the surrounding built environment, including zoning regulations, transportation systems, and cultural context.
To conduct a thorough site and environmental analysis, architects typically use a variety of techniques, including site observation, mapping, and data collection. They may also use software tools such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to analyze data and create visual representations of the site. The table below outlines some of the factors that architects consider during site and environmental analysis.
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Topography | The physical features of the land, such as hills, valleys, and slopes |
| Climate | The prevailing weather conditions in the area, including temperature, precipitation, and wind patterns |
| Hydrology | The water features on the site, including rivers, lakes, and wetlands |
| Vegetation | The plant life on the site, including trees, shrubs, and grasses |
| Existing Structures | Any buildings or structures already on the site |
| Zoning Regulations | The local regulations governing land use and development |
| Transportation Systems | The roads, highways, and other transportation infrastructure in the area |
| Cultural Context | The social and cultural factors that may influence the design, such as historical significance or local traditions |
By conducting a thorough site and environmental analysis, architects can create designs that are tailored to the specific needs of the site and its surroundings. This approach can help ensure that the resulting building is not only functional but also visually appealing and sustainable.
Division 5: Project Development and Documentation
Division 5 of the US architecture exam scrutinizes the process of project development and documentation, focusing on the technical aspects of planning, design, and construction management. It tests the candidate’s ability to develop a comprehensive project plan, which includes the identification of project goals, objectives, and constraints, the establishment of project scope, the development of project schedules and budgets, and the management of project risks.
Additionally, it assesses the candidate’s knowledge of the design process, including the selection of appropriate materials, systems, and technologies, the application of building codes and regulations, and the integration of sustainability principles into the design.
The exam also evaluates the candidate’s ability to prepare construction documents, including drawings, specifications, and contracts, which are used to communicate the design intent to contractors, subcontractors, and other stakeholders. It tests the candidate’s understanding of the bidding and procurement process, the management of construction contracts, and the coordination of construction activities.
Moreover, the exam assesses the candidate’s knowledge of building systems and technologies, including structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection systems, and their integration into the design. The successful candidate must demonstrate their ability to apply this knowledge to the design of safe, functional, and sustainable buildings that meet the needs of their clients and users.
Division 6: Construction and Evaluation
The sixth division of the US architecture exam covers the critical concepts of construction observation and administration, project closeout, and evaluation.
Construction observation and administration refer to the critical phases of construction, where an architect must monitor and ensure the construction adheres to the design plan.
Project closeout and evaluation, on the other hand, refer to the final stage, where the architect evaluates the project’s success and ensures the client’s satisfaction.
Construction observation and administration
Construction observation and administration involve overseeing the progress of construction projects, ensuring compliance with plans and specifications, and resolving any issues that may arise during the process. This stage of the construction process is crucial to ensure that the project is completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. Construction observation and administration involve the inspection of works, the review of documentation, and the management of the construction team to ensure that the project is executed in accordance with the approved plans and specifications.
One important aspect of construction observation and administration is the management of change orders. Change orders are modifications to the original plans and specifications that are requested by the owner or architect during the construction process. These modifications can be due to design changes, unforeseen site conditions, or changes in the scope of the project. Change orders can have significant impacts on the project timeline and budget, and it is the responsibility of the construction observer and administrator to manage them effectively. This involves documenting and tracking changes, evaluating the impact on the project, and communicating any changes to the relevant stakeholders. Effective management of change orders is crucial to ensure that the project remains on track and that the final product meets the client’s expectations.
| Management of Change Orders | Importance |
|---|---|
| Documenting and tracking changes | Ensures transparency and accountability |
| Evaluating the impact on the project | Enables informed decision-making |
| Communicating changes to stakeholders | Ensures everyone is on the same page |
| Effective management | Crucial for project success |
Project closeout and evaluation
Project closeout and evaluation is a critical stage of the construction process that ensures the completion of the project and the satisfaction of all stakeholders. It is the final stage of the project and involves a series of activities, including the submission of final documents, financial closeout, and post-occupancy evaluation.
The following are some of the core concepts covered in the US architecture exam related to project closeout and evaluation.
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Final documents submission – This involves the submission of final documents to the owner, authorities having jurisdiction, and other stakeholders. The documents may include the final set of drawings and specifications, as-built drawings, operation and maintenance manuals, and warranties. The submission of these documents is critical to ensure that the owner has all the necessary information to operate and maintain the building.
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Financial closeout – This involves the final settlement of all financial transactions related to the project. It includes the payment of all outstanding invoices, the release of retainage, and the final accounting of all project costs. Financial closeout is essential to ensure that the project is completed within the approved budget.
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Post-occupancy evaluation – This involves the evaluation of the building’s performance after it has been occupied. It includes the assessment of the building’s energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and occupant satisfaction. Post-occupancy evaluation provides valuable feedback on the success of the project and helps identify areas for improvement in future projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the passing score for the Architect Registration Examination (ARE)?
The passing score for the Architect Registration Examination (ARE) is determined by each individual state licensing board. However, the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) recommends a minimum passing score of 75 on each of the seven divisions of the ARE.
The ARE is a comprehensive exam that tests the knowledge and skills of aspiring architects in various areas such as programming, site analysis, building systems, and construction documentation. It is designed to ensure that architects are competent in all aspects of the profession, and passing the exam is a requirement for licensure in most states.
The exam is challenging and requires extensive preparation, but successful completion is a significant milestone for those pursuing a career in architecture.
How long is the ARE valid for?
The Architect Registration Examination (ARE) is valid for a period of five years from the date of passing the final division. After five years, the exam scores become invalid and the candidate must retake the exam to become licensed.
It is important for candidates to keep in mind that the validity period begins from the date of passing the final division, not from the date of taking the exam.
Additionally, candidates who pass one or more divisions but fail to complete the entire exam within five years will need to retake the failed divisions in addition to passing any new divisions added since their last attempt.
It is imperative for candidates to plan their exam schedule accordingly and complete all divisions within the validity period to avoid the need for additional testing.
Can you take the ARE exam online?
The Architect Registration Examination (ARE) is a computer-based exam that tests the knowledge and skills of architectural professionals in the United States. While the exam is administered by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB), it cannot be taken online. Instead, candidates must schedule an appointment to take the exam at a Prometric testing center.
The exam consists of six divisions, each covering a different aspect of architectural practice, including Programming, Planning, and Practice; Site Planning and Design; Building Design and Construction Systems; Structural Systems; Building Systems; and Construction Documents and Services.
Passing the ARE is a prerequisite for licensure as an architect in most US states.
Are there any prerequisites required before taking the ARE?
Before taking the ARE exam, there are certain prerequisites that must be met. These requirements include obtaining a professional degree in architecture from a recognized institution, completing the Architectural Experience Program (AXP), and being licensed to practice architecture by a state licensing board.
Additionally, some jurisdictions may have additional requirements such as continuing education or passing a state-specific exam. It is important for individuals to research and understand the specific prerequisites for their jurisdiction before beginning the process of taking the ARE exam.
Meeting these prerequisites is essential to ensuring that individuals possess the necessary knowledge and skills to be successful in their pursuit of becoming a licensed architect.
How long does it typically take to prepare for the ARE?
The preparation time required for the ARE (Architect Registration Examination) varies depending on several factors, including the individual’s level of experience, education, and familiarity with the exam content.
Typically, candidates spend anywhere from six months to two years preparing for the exam. However, some individuals may require more or less time, depending on their circumstances.
To prepare adequately for the exam, candidates should familiarize themselves with the exam content and structure, develop a study plan, and consistently review the material. Additionally, seeking guidance from experienced professionals, attending review courses, and utilizing study aids can be helpful in preparing for the exam.
Ultimately, the amount of time required for preparation largely depends on the individual’s dedication and commitment to studying and reviewing the material thoroughly.
Conclusion
The Architect Registration Examination (ARE) is a comprehensive exam that tests aspiring architects on their knowledge of core concepts related to architecture.
The exam is divided into six divisions, each of which focuses on a specific area of the profession.
Division 1 covers practice management, Division 2 focuses on project management, Division 3 covers programming and analysis, Division 4 focuses on project planning and design, Division 5 covers project development and documentation, and Division 6 focuses on construction and evaluation.
The ARE is a challenging exam that requires candidates to have a deep understanding of the core concepts of architecture. It is designed to test their knowledge and skills in areas such as project management, programming and analysis, project planning and design, project development and documentation, and construction and evaluation.
By passing the exam, candidates demonstrate that they have the knowledge and skills necessary to practice architecture in the United States.
In conclusion, the ARE is an essential exam for anyone who wants to become a licensed architect in the United States. It covers a wide range of core concepts related to architecture, and passing the exam requires a deep understanding of these concepts.
By passing the exam, candidates demonstrate that they have the knowledge and skills necessary to practice architecture in a safe, ethical, and effective manner.
