Think Green: A Practical Guide to LEED for Architecture Students- Part One

Written by Gabriela Sortino Herrero & Josebet Luna

Dear Future Architects,

Welcome to the LEED certification journey. I'm a 5th-year Cal Poly architecture student who has recently embarked on obtaining my LEED Green Associate accreditation while balancing studies and work responsibilities. When I began researching this process, I was surprised to find limited resources specifically for students juggling multiple commitments. This blog aims to fill that gap by providing a clear roadmap to LEED certification based on first-hand experience. I've gathered insights from both my journey and conversations with industry professionals to create a comprehensive guide that addresses common questions, outlines costs, and shares practical study strategies. Joining me is Josebet, Architectural Designer and LEED AP BD+C, who offers a valuable perspective on the certification process and its real-world applications. Together, we'll share the advice we wish we'd had when we first started.

What are the LEED credentials for?

The LEED certification or accreditation is a recognized symbol of sustainability and achievement in the built environment. Provided by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), the credentials certify your ability to understand and implement concepts about sustainable design at every stage of a building project — from when you first plan it, through construction, daily use, maintenance, and even after people move in.

What's great about LEED certification is that anyone can pursue it — you don't need a college degree. This makes it a fantastic credential whether you're just starting your career or looking to add to your professional skills.

Impact of LEED Certification on One's Career

First, and most importantly, LEED credentials help architects, construction professionals, engineers, and facility managers to design buildings in a more sustainable, holistic, and responsible way. If you're wondering whether you should pursue it, consider these benefits: it opens up more job opportunities (especially as the green building industry grows), gives you an edge in the job market, and boosts your credibility by showing you have solid knowledge about green buildings.

What Types of Credentials Are There?

Glad you asked. The LEED certification system has three levels, with the first two available through taking exams and the third requiring significant work experience.

First is the LEED Green Associate certification. Anyone 18 or older interested in green building can pursue this. It's the entry-level credential that certifies your understanding of the basics of sustainable design and it is a prerequisite for the next level.

After passing your first exam, you can become a LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP) with a specialty that matches your career interests. You can choose from Building Design and Construction (great for architecture students!), Interior Design, Operations and Maintenance, Neighborhood Development, or Homes. This certification demonstrates your ability to apply green design principles and effectively manage the certification process for real-world projects.

Finally, after about 10 years of experience in the field, you might qualify for LEED Fellowship. This highest level recognizes professionals who have made important contributions to sustainable design and the LEED system itself.

Pricing and Registration Considerations

Let's talk about money! When you're a student, budget matters. While LEED credentials come with costs, the USGBC offers special student discounts that make it more affordable. Just make sure to confirm your student status when signing up.

Here's the breakdown: The Green Associate exam costs $250 for professionals, but only $100 for students. If you want to add a specialty later, that exam costs $350 (or $250 for USGBC members). You can also save by taking both exams on the same day for $550 total (or $400 for USGBC members).

Regarding registration, the LEED website provides comprehensive resources to guide you through the process. You can choose between online testing or an in-person testing center. To register, visit the USGBC website (www.usgbc.org/credentials), select "Register for an exam," and follow the instructions.

My personal advice? If you can, choose a testing center rather than taking it online. Testing centers provide everything you need and create the perfect environment for exam-taking. Plus, if you run into any problems during the test, there's always a proctor there to help you right away.

The Hardest Part is Signing up for the test

As we've explored in this first part of our LEED certification guide, taking the first step into this journey is often the most challenging one - simply registering for your exam. The journey begins with understanding what LEED credentials represent, their impact on your career trajectory, the different certification levels available, and the practical aspects of registration and costs. This investment in your professional development pays dividends through expanded job opportunities, enhanced marketability, and the satisfaction of contributing to more sustainable built environments.

In Part Two of this guide, we'll delve into effective study strategies, exam preparation resources, and practical tips for success based on my personal experience and insights from practicing professionals like Josebet.