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Professional Credentials


Several professional credentials and certifications are available in the building design industry in addition to becoming a state licensed Architect. Typically, these certifications are a way to further enhance your skills and resume, but not necessarily required for entry level employment in the industry.

LEED Green Associate Credential

Developed by the U.S. Green Building Council, LEED or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is the most widely used green building rating system in the world. Available for virtually all building, community and home project types, LEED provides a framework to create healthy, highly efficient and cost-saving green buildings. LEED certification is a globally recognized symbol of sustainability achievement.

College of the Canyons is one of only a few colleges in the United States to offer for-credit Sustainable Design and LEED Green Associate prep courses through its Architecture program and serves as a USGBC authorized LEED testing center. More information on the LEED Green Associate credentialcan be found here.

California Licensed Architect

Although entry level positions in the building design industry might not always require a degree or architectural license, to be competitive in the employment market it is recommended that you have at least a 2-year Associates Degree and initial internship experience. If you would like to work at a large, national or international design firm (or for career promotion), you will likely need to also earn a Bachelors or Masters Degree in Architecture (B. Arch / M. Arch).

The Associate of Science Degree - Architectural Drafting and Technology offered by College of the Canyons provides students with a solid foundation for pursuing architectural licensure in the state of California including the acquisition of in-demand internship skills and academic coursework for students wishing to transfer with advanced standing to a 4-year pre-professional / 5-year professional Architecture degree program. More information on the requirements for becoming a California licensed Architect can be found here and here.