Licensure candidates and new architects are more diverse than ever before, according to new data from the 2017 edition ofNCARB by the Numbers. Released annually by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB), the publication provides exclusive insight into the number of U.S. architects, the pool of candidates working toward licensure, and diversity in the profession.
Closing the Gender Gap
For the first time since NCARB began collecting demographics data, gender equity improved along every career stage—including gaining professional knowledge through the Architectural Experience Program™ (AXP™), starting the Architect Registration Examination® (ARE®), and earning a license.
In 2016, women accounted for 47 percent of new AXP participants and 42 percent of new ARE candidates. While women remain underrepresented among practitioners and NCARB Certificate holders, they now account for 36 percent of newly licensed architects, compared to 34 percent in the previous year. According to 2015 estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau, women make up 51 percent of the U.S. population.
Racial and Ethnic Diversity
Racial and ethnic diversity is also increasing among licensure candidates, although at a slower pace.
In 2016, 42 percent of new AXP participants and 30 percent of new ARE candidates identified as non-white—up three percentage points for both groups. However, diversity among newly licensed architects and NCARB Certificate holders remained the same. For comparison, 38 percent of the U.S. population identifies as either non-white or Hispanic, according to 2015 estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau.
“While several groups remain underrepresented within the profession, these trends point to growing diversity among licensure candidates, and eventually, future architects,” said NCARB President Kristine A. Harding, NCARB, AIA. “In response, NCARB will continue to ensure our programs balance inclusivity with the rigor needed to protect the public.”
Related Stories
Industry Research | Sep 27, 2016
Sterling Risk Sentiment Index indicates risk exposure perception remains stable in construction industry
Nearly half (45%) of those polled say election year uncertainty has a negative effect on risk perception in the construction market.
Industry Research | Sep 21, 2016
The global penetration of smart meters is expected to reach approximately 53% by the end of 2025
Large-scale smart meter deployments are underway across Western Europe, while new deployments continue among later adopters in the United States.
Industry Research | Sep 12, 2016
Evidence linking classroom design to improved learning mounts
A study finds the impact can be as much as 25% per year.
Healthcare Facilities | Sep 6, 2016
Chicago Faucets releases white paper: Reducing the risk of HAIs in healthcare facilities
The white paper discusses in detail four options used to mitigate transmission of waterborne bacteria
Market Data | Sep 2, 2016
Nonresidential spending inches lower in July while June data is upwardly revised to eight-year record
Nonresidential construction spending has been suppressed over the last year or so with the primary factor being the lack of momentum in public spending.
Industry Research | Sep 1, 2016
CannonDesign releases infographic to better help universities obtain more R&D funding
CannonDesign releases infographic to better help universities obtain more R&D funding.
Industry Research | Aug 25, 2016
Building bonds: The role of 'trusted advisor' is earned not acquired
A trusted advisor acts as a guiding partner over the full course of a professional relationship.
Market Data | Aug 16, 2016
Leading economists predict construction industry growth through 2017
The Chief Economists for ABC, AIA, and NAHB all see the construction industry continuing to expand over the next year and a half.
Healthcare Facilities | Aug 9, 2016
Key strategies to reduce healthcare facility costs and maintain operations
The right approach during the planning, design, and construction of a new facility can yield a positive return on investment and lower the overall cost basis for ongoing operations, writes Steve Higgs, Senior Managing Director with CBRE Healthcare.
Laboratories | Aug 8, 2016
The lab of the future: smaller, flexible, tech-enabled, business focused
A new CBRE report emphasizes the importance of collaboration and standardization in lab design.