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Frequently asked questions

When is the BSA moving?

The Architects Building at 52 Broad Street will be closed December 2-5 for moving. BSA Space at 290 Congress Street will open to the public on Tuesday, December 6. 

I need continuing-education credits. How can I get them without breaking the bank?
The BSA and partner organizations offer lots of learning opportunities. Visit the continuing-education section of this site for listings.

How do I order Contract Documents?
You may order AIA Contract Documents through the BSA store or by visiting us at 52 Broad Street, Boston. Call 617-951-1433 with questions about availability. Software options and Documents-on-Demand (PDFs delivered electronically) are available from national AIA. 

I don’t have a Massachusetts architectural license, or I have questions about my license. Can you help?
The BSA is an independent, nonprofit organization and not part of the state’s licensure division. You may contact the Massachusetts Board of Registration of Architects directly; be sure to read through their frequently asked questions and have the documents you need at hand.

If you are registered an architect abroad and coming to the United States to practice, the BSA Alien Architects Roundtable offers a wealth of resources as well as a welcoming community.

How do I become an architect?
School, work and tests! Architects earn NAAB-accredited bachelors or masters degrees, log years of work experience and take the extensive Architectural Registration Exam, and they’ll tell you it’s worth it—visit www.naab.org for a list of accredited schools. Take a look at the short BSA publication Your career in architecture.

Is there an architectural book store?
The BSA sells only paper copies of AIA Contract Documents and the AIA Guide to Boston. You may find other titles from national AIA’s online store. Massachusetts code books are available from the Statehouse bookstore.

What is the appropriate membership category for me?
There’s a place for everyone within the BSA, whether you are a world-famous architect, a leader of an allied profession or a patron of design. Visit the membership section of this website for details.