Deprofessionalization? An Emergency Conversation and Call to Action

Should architecture be deprofessionalized?

The U.S. Department of Education has proposed a rule that would narrow the federal definition of “professional degrees” for student loan purposes. Under this rule, Master of Architecture and Doctor of Architecture programs would no longer qualify for the higher federal loan caps currently available to designated professional programs and would instead be subject to significantly lower annual borrowing limits beginning in 2026. While the change would not alter state licensure requirements, it could substantially affect access to architectural education and, by extension, the pipeline into the profession.

What would this mean for architectural education, licensure, and the future of the profession?

Is this the beginning of the end for architecture as a licensed profession?

With the public comment period closing at midnight on Monday, March 2, the AIANY Future of Practice Committee is convening an emergency conversation and call to action. Confirmed guests include AIA National President Illya Azaroff, FAIA, who will address the implications of the rule and outline specific steps architects can take before the deadline and continue advocacy beyond the public comment period.

Given the short notice, in-person tickets are available; however, all who are able are encouraged to register for virtual participation.

Speakers:
Illya Azaroff, FAIA, Founder, +lab architect; 2026 AIA National President
Bria Donohue, Director, Government Affairs, AIA New York
Marta Gutman, PhD, Dean and Professor of Architecture, Spitzer School of Architecture, City College of New York

Respondents:
Jacob Reidel, AIA, Director, Project on Practice; Co-Chair, AIANY Future of Practice Committee
Andre Soluri, AIA, SARA, NCARB, Principal, Soluri Architecture; Co-Chair, AIANY Future of Practice Committee
If you register for a virtual ticket, you will receive an email with a Zoom link to access the program.