The Rochester chapter of The American Institute of Architects
Emerging Rochester Architects (ERA)
Become a Licensed Architect
AXP Licensing Advisors
There are three major components to becoming an architect:
Education
Education requirements vary by state. Check your local jurisdiction. NYS residents can look here.
Examination
The Architect Registration Examination® (ARE®) is a multi- division exam that assesses your knowledge and skills.
Experience
You’ll need to document real-world experience through the Architectural Experience Program® (AXP®)
AIA Rochester has two AXP Licensing Advisors. Please reach out to either advisor for guidance and answers to your licensing questions:
William C. Dean, RA, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP
Professor of Architecture and Chair
Department of Architecture and Design
Alfred State College
Julius J. Chiavaroli, AIA
Professor, Department of Architecture
Golisano Institute for Sustainability
Rochester Institute of Technology
Resources & Quick Links
Finding an employer that will support your licensure goals
Best practices in licensure support for firms
ERA News
Events of Interest for Emerging Professionals:
2025-2026 Emerging Professionals Director
The Emerging Rochester Architects (ERA) is a subcommittee of AIA Rochester, and is chaired by the AIA Rochester Emerging Professionals Director.
Our membership includes associates, architects, and architectural students who have an enthusiasm for architecture, design, and Rochester. ERA is the vehicle for hosting events and programs that are fun, foster professional development, and engage the community with a focus on architecture and design. The broad nature of ERA’s framework allows the members to steer it in a direction that is their passion and will best benefit them, allowing future generations to make ERA their own.
