The Rochester chapter of The American Institute of Architects
Emerging Rochester Architects (ERA)
Become a Licensed Architect
AIA Rochester ARE Study Materials Library
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
BRIGHTWOOD 5.0 - FLASHCARDS
Project Development & Documentation
Project Planning & Design
Construction & Evaluation
Practice Management
Project Management
Programming & Analysis
BRIGHTWOOD 5.0 – STUDY GUIDES
Practice Management
Project Management
Programming & Analysis
Project Development & Documentation
Construction & Evaluation
Project Planning & Design
BOOK
Mechanical and Electrical Equipment for Buildings
BALLAST – 2nd Edition
ARE Review Manual (Covers all 7 sections) – 2 copies
Construction Document & Services – ARE Sample Problems & Practice Exam
Schematic Design
Site Planning & Design
Building Systems
Building Design & Construction Systems
PROFESSIONAL PUBLICATIONS INC.
ARE 5 Practice Problems for the ARE Exam
Flash Card set covering: Codes & standards, Programming, Planning & Practice, Site Planning & Design, Building Design & Construction Systems, Structural Systems & Construction Documents & Services
The chapter owns some ARE study materials which can be borrowed by any AIA Rochester member in good standing. Contact our Director of Emerging Professionals Emily Steinbacher for more information.
You’ll need to document real-world experience through the Architectural Experience Program® (AXP®)
AXP Licensing Advisors
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
List of accredited architecture programs
Organization associated with experience, examination, and reciprocity
Finding an employer that will support your licensure goals
Best practices in licensure support for firms
Events of Interest for Emerging Professionals:
ERA News
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.