
Elevate Architectural Expertise with Accredited CPE
For architecture training providers, Alta Professional Accreditation (APA) offers free approval for your continuing education courses. Show your commitment to quality and help architects meet their professional development goals.
- $0 approvalNo fee to become an approved provider
- Independent US bodyPublished CPE standards
- Any formatIn-person, live online and on-demand
- Official certificatesCredit hours on every certificate

CPE certification in Architecture
The architectural field is in constant motion, driven by advancements in sustainable design, evolving building codes like the IBC, and the widespread adoption of BIM technologies. Architects face increased scrutiny on structural integrity and material science, alongside a greater need for resilience planning against environmental factors. Continuing professional education is critical for maintaining licensure, enhancing design proficiency, and ensuring compliance with these complex, dynamic standards across various jurisdictions, from Florida's coastal building requirements to California's seismic considerations. Staying current mitigates project risks and fosters innovation.
Who takes this training
- Licensed Architect (RA)
- Architectural Designer
- Urban Planner
- Historic Preservationist
- Building Code Consultant
What accreditation solves for Architecture providers
Struggling to demonstrate course quality to architects?
APA accreditation validates the rigor and educational value of your courses, giving architects confidence in your offerings and setting you apart from unaccredited providers.
Architects questioning the value of your training?
Accreditation by APA signals to architects that your CPE meets recognized industry standards for professional development, encouraging higher enrollment and engagement.
Difficulty attracting new architectural firm clients?
Offering APA-accredited courses enhances your credibility with firms seeking high-quality, verifiable professional development for their staff, opening doors to new business opportunities.
Losing out to competitors with 'approved' courses?
APA accreditation provides a clear, independent endorsement of your course quality, allowing you to compete effectively and win over architects who prioritize legitimate professional growth.
Architecture courses we accredit
Live webinars with Q&A, hands-on software workshops, and self-paced online modules with interactive case studies are particularly effective for architectural professionals seeking flexibility and deep dives into complex topics.
Sustainable Design & LEED Certification
Explore strategies for energy-efficient buildings, renewable materials, and achieving various levels of LEED certification for green building projects.
Building Information Modeling (BIM) Proficiency
Master advanced techniques in Revit, ArchiCAD, or other BIM software for collaborative project delivery, clash detection, and lifecycle management.
Universal Design & Accessibility Standards
Understand ADA compliance, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and best practices for creating inclusive and barrier-free environments for all users.
Advanced Structural Systems & Materials
Delve into the engineering principles behind innovative structural solutions, high-performance materials, and their application in complex architectural forms.
Project Management for Architectural Practice
Develop skills in project planning, risk assessment, contract administration, and effective communication essential for successful architectural project delivery.
Building Codes and Zoning Regulations
Gain in-depth knowledge of the latest International Building Code (IBC) updates, local zoning ordinances, and their impact on design and construction.

Why Architecture learners choose accredited providers
Learners in the Architecture industry gain much more than just knowledge from accredited CPE. They receive a verifiable record of professional development that demonstrates their commitment to staying current with evolving codes, technologies, and sustainable practices. This commitment makes them highly valuable to employers, helps them maintain licensure, and keeps their skills sharp in a competitive field. When architects choose an accredited provider, they are investing in their future, ensuring that the time and money spent on training directly contributes to their career progression and professional standing. This assurance of quality and relevance is a powerful draw, leading architects to consistently seek out and prefer providers offering APA-accredited courses for their critical continuing education needs.
Ideal for
- Architectural Design Firms
- Building Product Manufacturers
- Construction Technology Trainers
- Sustainability Consultants
- Professional Associations for Architects
Where accredited CPE fits in Architecture
Many US states require licensed architects to complete a specific number of continuing education hours annually or biennially to maintain their professional license, often including specific health, safety, and welfare (HSW) content. State boards like the NCARB regulate these requirements. By offering APA-accredited courses, training providers give architects confidence that their education meets a recognized standard of quality. Providers should always confirm with relevant state licensing boards regarding acceptance of specific credit types.
Becoming an accredited Architecture provider
- 1
Apply for free approval
FreeTell us about your organization and the Architecture training you deliver. Provider approval costs nothing.
- 2
Get approved as a provider
FreeOur team reviews your organization, instructors and quality processes.
- 3
Submit your courses
Per courseOur reviewers check learning objectives and materials, then confirm credit hours (50 minutes = 1 CPE credit).
- 4
Award accredited CPE
OngoingIssue official APA certificates your learners can report to their board, association or employer.
Do APA credits count toward my state's AIA HSW requirements?
Alta Professional Accreditation ensures courses meet high educational standards, including content often aligned with Health, Safety, and Welfare (HSW) criteria. However, architects must directly verify with their specific state licensing board or the American Institute of Architects (AIA) chapter if APA-accredited courses will fulfill their individual HSW or general CE requirements.
How does APA accreditation benefit my architectural training program?
APA accreditation signals to architects that your course content is rigorously vetted for accuracy, relevance, and educational value. This independent stamp of quality enhances your program's credibility and helps attract professionals seeking reliable continuing education to meet their licensing and skill development needs.
What kind of architectural topics are suitable for APA accreditation?
We accredit a wide range of topics critical to architectural practice, including sustainable design principles, advanced BIM applications, accessibility compliance (ADA), building codes (IBC), historic preservation, urban planning, and project management for design firms. Content should be current, practical, and directly applicable to professional growth.
What is the cost structure for getting my architectural courses accredited?
Provider approval with Alta Professional Accreditation is absolutely free. Once you're an approved provider, we charge a per-course accreditation fee, ensuring transparency and flexibility for your training catalog. Get started today to discover the value without upfront commitment.
How long does the accreditation process typically take for a new architecture course?
The timeline can vary depending on the completeness of your submission and the complexity of the course material. We strive for efficiency, and once all required documentation is submitted, our review process is typically completed within 4-6 weeks. Submit your application to kickstart the process.
Can my online or on-demand architectural training courses be accredited?
Yes, absolutely! We accredit various delivery formats, including online, on-demand, live virtual, and in-person courses. We focus on the educational content and learning outcomes, regardless of the delivery method. Begin your application to get your digital courses recognized.
How do you determine credit hours for architecture CPE courses?
Credit hours are primarily determined by the actual instructional time, excluding breaks and introductions, and the demonstrated learning objectives of the course. Our review process ensures alignment with industry standards for professional development. Apply now and let us help you align your courses.
Do I need to issue certificates of completion for my accredited architecture courses?
Yes, as an APA-accredited provider, you are required to issue certificates of completion to learners who successfully finish your courses. This provides verifiable documentation of their earned professional development hours. Start your application to learn more about our certificate guidelines.
