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The architecture program at the �������Ƶ has been reaccredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board.

The board has extended accreditation for UL Lafayette’s School of Architecture and Design for the full term of eight years, after conducting a comprehensive review of the program last fall.

Earning an architecture degree from an accredited program is one of the prerequisites to becoming a licensed architect in most states.

The reaccreditation process began in 2013 with the submission of an Architectural Program Report. The report was prepared by Tom Sammons, director of UL Lafayette’s School of Architecture and Design, and faculty members. The in-depth document describes the program, its curriculum, faculty and student achievements, and ways in which the program meets the accreditation criteria.

In November, members of the accrediting board were on campus for five days to review the work of students detailed in the report, including core design, theory and history courses.

They visited the School of Architecture and Design in J.L. Fletcher Hall, which is being renovated.

“Through discussion with students and faculty it was clear that students receive a high level of personalized attention, which enables them to reach their highest level of academic achievement,” the board report states.

The accreditation team also noted the dedication and resilience of students and faculty who are working and studying in Fletcher Hall while renovations are ongoing.

The report stated that, “a high level of academic performance has been maintained throughout.”

The report also commended outreach efforts by students and faculty, and the work of the architectural program’s Community Design Workshop, its Building Institute, and its Coastal Community Resilience.

Sammons said reaccreditation for the School of Architecture and Design “is a reflection of the dedication, hard work and creativity of the faculty and students.”