Higher education
Explore how AIA promotes excellence in higher education for the growth and future of the architecture profession.
Educating the next generation of architects
Higher education staff work to support education, research, equity, diversity, and inclusion, including an urgent focus on climate action through research and education.
Engaging Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)
AIA is committed to strengthening pathways into the profession through meaningful engagement with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), recognizing their critical role in educating and advancing a more diverse generation of architects. Through student forums, internships, and institutional partnerships, AIA works to expand access, increase visibility, and support long-term career development for HBCU students and graduates.
Partners in education and research
AIA partners with leading academic and professional organizations, including the Alliance Organizations, to advance architectural education and research. AIA also co-sponsors research and events with the Society of Building Science Educators (SBSE), Building Technology Educators' Society (BTES), and Architectural Research Centers Consortium (ARCC), and posts the annual Intersections Symposium proceedings on BRIK.
Medal for Academic Excellence
The AIA Medal for Academic Excellence honors the top graduating students in accredited architecture programs who demonstrate sustained excellence throughout their studies. As one of the profession’s longest-standing student honors, it underscores the essential role of higher education in shaping future architects. Submissions are now open through November 15, 2026.
Higher Education Advisory Team (HEAT)
The AIA Higher Education Advisory Team advises, shares, and promotes issues, trends, and aspirations relevant to architectural education that will improve and inform the future of architecture. Volunteer members serve two-year terms and offer advice, expertise, and updates to AIA on issues relevant to architecture education.
Resources for architecture students and administrators
AIA is invested in the next generation and supports students and emerging professionals through every stage of professional development. Below are resources and scholarships for students and emerging professionals to help you advance your academic and professional career.
Student opportunities
The Architects Foundation awards thousands of dollars in architecture scholarships and professional development grants to undergraduate students every year.
The American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS) collects and posts scholarships and fellowship opportunities for architecture students.
The AIA Medal for Academic Excellence is awarded annually to the top graduating student in each NAAB-accredited program.
The AIA/AIAS CRIT Scholar program awards eight recipients a $1,000 grant to fund their own research projects.
AIA is a sponsor of the U.S. Department of Energy BuildingsNEXT® Student Design Competition, a collegiate competition that has inspired thousands of students worldwide to enter the clean energy workforce since its inception in 2002.
The COTE® Top Ten for Students is a competition that challenges students, working individually or in teams, to use a thoroughly integrated approach to architecture, natural systems, and technology to provide architectural solutions that protect and enhance the environment. Winning students and their faculty sponsors receive cash prizes. Registration opens in early spring each year.
The AIA Conference on Architecture & Design® is the architecture and design event of the year. Sessions, career coaching, and free professional headshots are available for students in the AIA NextGen Lounge on the expo floor. Networking and social events are also available throughout conference. Held annually, students can register for only $35!
AIA and the Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture (ACSA) jointly host an annual Intersections Research Conference dedicated to strengthening the intersection between academia and design practice.
Each year, up to 20 students are selected to be a part of the Women's Leadership Summit student delegation. This special opportunity is coordinated in conjunction with an NAAB-accredited architecture program in the vicinity of the summit.
Post-grad opportunities
The Jason Pettigrew Memorial ARE Scholarship covers the cost of the ARE, as well as study materials, for scholarship recipients.
The AIA-AAH Arthur N. Tuttle Fellowship and Griffin/McKahan/Zilm Fellowship support graduate students and young architects in training, increasing their awareness of the needs and nature of health care facilities.
The AIA Future Forward Grant supports early-career professionals in the testing of new ideas that disrupt the traditional conception of practice, process, and product in the field of architecture.
The AIA Associates Award recognizes outstanding Associate member leaders and creative thinkers for significant contributions to their communities and the architecture profession.
The AIA Young Architect Award recognizes architects licensed 10 years or less who have demonstrated exceptional leadership early in their career.
Join AIA for free with up to 18 months of free Associate AIA membership, starting the day you graduate.
AIAU hosts an extensive catalog of professional development tutorials and workshops. Earn HSW credits, which count toward AXP hours, up to 20 credits.
With 200+ chapters in the U.S. and abroad, connect with your local chapter, which coordinates a variety of programs and partnerships. Find the chapter closest to your school or wherever you plan to be after you graduate.
Join one or more of the 21 AIA Knowledge Communities and connect with professionals that share your passions and interests.
Get involved with the National Associates Committee, which supports emerging professionals.
AIA Guides for Equitable Practice, including the new supplement, Equity in Architectural Education.
AIA Compensation & Benefits Report, the architecture profession’s most trusted source for salary, benefits, and workplace practices.
Free salary calculator with salary ranges for 20 key architecture positions in your area.
AIA Resource Center—a collection of relevant, experience-based resources on climate action, equity, firm management, project delivery, contracts, and more.
AIA Framework for Design Excellence, the defining principles of design excellence in the 21st century.
Reach out to your local chapter and ask about additional programs and leadership opportunities.
Get full access to everything AIA offers—at no cost for up to 18 months starting the day you graduate. Get ready to launch your career with confidence!