R156-3a-304. Continuing Education for Architects

In accordance with Section 58-3a-303.5, the continuing education standards for architects are established as follows:

(1)(a) During each two year period ending on December 31 of each odd numbered year, a licensed architect shall complete not less than 24 hours of continuing education directly related to the licensee's professional practice.

(b) At least 12 hours should be completed each year.

(2) The required number of hours of continuing education for an individual who first becomes licensed during the two year period shall be decreased in a pro-rata amount equal to any part of that two year period preceding the date on which that individual first became licensed.

(3) Continuing education under this section shall:

(a) have an identifiable, clear statement of purpose and defined objective for the educational program directly related to the practice of an architect and directly related to topics involving the public health, safety, and welfare of architectural practice and the ethical standards of architectural practice;

(i) health, safety, welfare and ethical standards as used in this subsection are defined to include the following:

(A) The definition of "health" shall include, but not be limited to, aspects of architecture that have salutary effects among users of buildings or sites and that address environmental issues. Examples include all aspects of air quality, provisions of personal hygiene, and use of non-toxic materials and finishes.

(B) The definition of "safety" shall include, but not be limited to, aspects of architecture intended to limit or prevent accidental injury or death among users of buildings or construction sites. Examples include fire-rated egress enclosures, automatic sprinkler systems, stairs with correct rise-to-run proportions, and accommodations for users with disabilities.

(C) The definition of "welfare" shall include, but not be limited to, aspects of architecture that consist of values that may be spiritual, physical, aesthetic and monetary in nature. Examples include spaces that afford natural light or views of nature or whose proportions, color or materials engender positive emotional responses from its users.

(D)(a) The definition of "ethical standards of architectural practice" shall include, but not be limited to the NCARB rules of conduct specified in Subsection R156-3a-502(4).

(b) be relevant to the licensee's professional practice;

(c) be presented in a competent, well organized and sequential manner consistent with the stated purpose and objective of the program;

(d) be prepared and presented by individuals who are qualified by education, training and experience; and

(e) have associated with it a competent method of registration of individuals who actually completed the continuing education program and records of that registration and completion are available for review.

(4) Credit for qualified continuing education shall be recognized in accordance with the following:

(a) unlimited hours shall be recognized for continuing education completed in blocks of time of not less than one hour in formally established classroom courses, seminars, or conferences;

(b) a maximum of eight hours per two year period may be recognized for teaching in a college or university or for teaching continuing education courses in the field of architecture, provided it is the first time the material has been taught during the preceding 12 months;

(c) a maximum of three hours per two year period may be recognized for preparation of papers, articles, or books directly related to the practice of architecture and submitted for publication; and

(d) unlimited hours may be recognized for continuing education that is provided via the Internet or through home study courses provided the course verifies registration and participation in the course by means of a test which demonstrates that the participant has learned the material presented.

(5) A licensee shall be responsible for maintaining records of completed continuing education for a period of six years after the two year period to which the records pertain. It is the responsibility of the licensee to maintain information with respect to continuing education to demonstrate it meets the requirements under this section.

(6) A licensee who is unable to complete the continuing education requirement for reasons such as a medical or related condition, humanitarian or ecclesiastical services, or extended presence in a geographical area where continuing education is not available, may be excused from the requirement for a period of up to three years as provided in Section R156-1-308d.

(7) Any licensee who fails to timely complete the continuing education hours required by this rule shall be required to complete double the number of hours missed to be eligible for renewal or reinstatement of licensure.

(8) Any applicant for reinstatement shall be required to complete 24 hours of continuing education complying with this rule within two years prior to the date of application for reinstatement of licensure.