NCARB Architectural Experience Program (AXP)
The three major steps in being licensed as an architect are the successful completion of a first professional accredited degree program (M.Arch at PSU), the NCARB Architectural Experience Program (AXP), and the Architect Registration Examination (ARE). The School of Architecture at Portland State University strives to assist our students in obtaining IDP hours during their academic program. The School is committed to getting our students' IDP records started with the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) and has created an endowment that pays the initial $100 for the Intern Application Fee. Applications to this fund occur twice a year, once in October and again in April.
Questions about this fund or application can be sent to the School's AXP Architect Licensing Advisors, Barbara Sestak (sestakb@pdx.edu) and Travis Bell (btravis@pdx.edu). View information about the NCARB AXP program.
For information on getting started with your Architectural Experience Program requirements and begin earning AXP credits even before graduation, please contact Barbara Sestak, AXP Coordinator for the School of Architecture, at sestakb@pdx.edu.
Integrated Path to Architectural Licensure (IPAL)
Portland State University School of Architecture is one of 25 schools that has been accepted to participate in the Integrated Path to Architectural Licensure (IPAL). This initiative allows students to complete licensure requirements while earning their degree. Spearheaded by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB), the initiative enables accredited programs to incorporate professional experience and examination into curricula. Students can be admitted on a rolling basis.
Learn more about NCARB's IPAL Program.
Check out this interview with Shannon Smith about her experience with the IPAL program and the impact it has had on her professional career!
For more information on getting started in the Integrated Path to Architectural Licensure, please contact Barbara Sestak (sestakb@pdx.edu) or Travis Bell (btravis@pdx.edu).