Typically, a bachelor's degree in architecture takes five years. Some schools require three years of studies before students are accepted into the professional program, which comprises the final two years of study.
Schools of Architecture are accredited by the National Architecture Accrediting Board (NAAB). Students who intend to take the Architectural Registration Examination (ARE) must attend an accredited school.
It is possible to get a bachelor's in architecture by spending less than five years in school. Drexel University offers a program called the Two plus Four option. Students take two years of studies in architecture at the university and are then required to work for four years with an architecture firm before receiving their bachelor's of architecture.
Drexel, along with Delaware Valley, are schools that offer an evening program. While the program takes up to seven years to complete, students can pursue professional experience with an architecture firm during the day.
Many schools are shifting away from the bachelor's degree in architecture and instead offering a master's degree in architecture (M.Arch). There are several paths to this degree depending on the school, though most take six to eight years. A student interested in potentially teaching architecture should consider this course.