The architectural woodworker designs and makes high-end moldings, casings for windows and many other objects used in houses and commercial buildings. Study is required to become proficient in this field. The traditional way is to become an apprentice to a master artisan. Today, in 2011, you can also find many good schools that will help you develop your skills.
Schools such as the New England School of Architectural Woodworking, near Boston, offer short-term programs (nine months in the New England School) that help prepare you for a career in this field. These schools not only offer courses in woodworking but also prepare you to tackle the business aspects associated with the field. These schools include the American School of French Marquetry and The Woodworker Academy, both located in California. On the East Coast are the Connecticut Valley School of Woodworking, located in Manchester, Connecticut; and The Dogwood Institute School of Fine Woodworking, in Georgia. The Windsor Academy in Illinois and the Chidwick School of Fine Woodworking in Montana serve the center of the country.
You can also attend a university to learn architectural woodworking. The courses covering this area are handled by the art departments of many state and private schools. While you may not get a degree, schools such as Utah Valley University offer a certificate in proficiency for architectural woodworking.