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Q: I'm a mechanical engineer for the last 20 years and considering studying architecture in a school environment. Searching the internet for green or sustainable architectural programs does not turn up the magic list or much information in general related to becoming an architect. I find lots of information on workshops and some accredited alternate program courses. But if I wish to practice as an archtect, I believe some type of accredidation will be required. Do you know of any information source that would assist me at this time?

A: It is true that to be a licensed architect you have to have a professional education.  Where 10 years ago, many paths could lead to licensing, it is becoming increasing difficult to take alternate routes.  NAAB, the National Architecture Accreditation Board, reviews architecture programs and issues accreditations in 1 year, 3 year, and 5 year increments (depending on the quality of the program, problems to be resolved, etc).  To review accredited programs, go to their website: http://www.naab.org/cal_cat1724/cal_cat.htm

If you do want to get a professional degree, you will probably want to look at 3+ programs, which are architecture programs for people with 'unrelated' degrees.  You will probably be able to get credit for related classes (like structures, HVAC, etc.) given your background, but it won't shave much time off of the 3 years.  Kelly's list covers all of the US programs that I am aware of with any legitimate focus on sustainability. 

That said, I have not found a US program that is very far along the green/sustainable path.  There is a strong culture within the profession and especially within US schools that seems to preclude it.  I have a degree in Chemical engineering, I attended the University of Colorado for a Masters of Architecture, then stayed on to work on a PhD, looking specifically at this problem. 

It is important to clarify what you mean by green/sustainable design.  For example, Arizona State has a very strong solar architecture program, while the University of Oregon has long focused on a 'systems' approach to design.  UT Austin's sustainability thread looks intriguing, but I've not spoken to anyone who is involved it in.  My advice is to contact students and faculty in these programs.  Find out what the focus is, how well funded it is, faculty involvement and expertise, etc.

It is my experience that one has to create opportunities for oneself.  If you can find faculty and students that share your interests, you can tune your education to develop interests and knowledge of sustainability.  If you choose to go the 'professional education' route, I would still supplement your activities with workshops, 'alternative' education programs and the like.

The US Green Building Council has started student chapters - this may be a source of information.  They have an 'emerging green builders' group, with a listserve: http://www.usgbc.org/DisplayPage.aspx?CMSPageID=116

All this applies to you if licensure is important.  You can do a lot of design work without being licensed.  In Colorado, I believe an architect is required only for buildings larger than 10,000 square feet.  In this case, several of the 'alternative' programs may give you much more depth and focus than the institutionalized programs.

Q: Kelly, I am inquiring about your education and professional background. My boyfriend is interested in beginning a new career, he currently works for a contractor building homes, and we are curious as to your background, so as to assist him in pursuing this new dream. Any help or information you can give would be greatly helpful to us both.

A (Kelly): I am primarily a self-taught individual; my schooling came from my father, who was a builder and cabinet maker, and from many years of experience as a carpenter and craftsperson. I have always believed that I can accomplish almost anything that I put my mind to, so by trial and error I have come to my particular way of doing things. This approach isn't for everyone, so I don't necessarily recommend it. I have listed on the education page a lot of other ways to learn about natural building and sustainable architecture.

Q: From a beginner's standpoint, where can I go to get educated about designing and building my own sustainable home. I am looking for something in-depth enough to actually give me the personal means to design and build my home on my own or with a few friends?

A: You've come to the right place.  Greenhomebuilding has wonderful resources for green building.  I have several recommendations for you: 1. Educate yourself - read, research, watch videos, look around, visit green houes and get a feel for what you'd like to build 2. Get started building:  you may not want to dive right into a house - a large scale project with lots of systems to think about - so you could try a small project or find a weekend or week-long workshop that will teach hand-on.  (for example http://www.yestermorrow.org/courses.htm http://www.cobworks.com/construction.htm ) 3.  As you do each of these, acquaint yourself with 'experts' in the field and the type of building you are considering.  These folks will be invaluable as consultants as you move along the path to creating your own home!  I strongly believe in research, imagine, do, research, imagine, do!  Your ideas, skills and knowledge get better with each cycle!