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OTJ Announces the Second Annual OTJ Licensure Scholarship for Black/African American Architects & Interior Designers
We believe that the future of our industry depends not only on the next generation of architects and designers but also on our ability to nurture their professional journey. We also believe that the plurality of backgrounds and perspectives found at all levels of our organization fuels creativity, drives innovation, and challenges us to explore solutions that reach beyond the confines of convention. Achieving licensure in the fields of architecture or interior design represents the culmination of an educational journey unique to our profession. Yet, Black and African American professionals continue to face disproportionate barriers on the path to this critical milestone.
According to 2023 statistical data from the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB), Black and African Americans account for only 1% of licensed certificate holders. Similarly, 2020 data from the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) shows less than 1% representation among NCIDQ-certified professionals. These candidates also invest more, on average, in exam fees and study materials, than their peers.
In 2024, we launched the OTJ Licensure Scholarship and awarded our inaugural funds to two exceptional recipients: one aspiring interior designer, who received resources to pursue the NCIDQ exam, and one future architect, supported in their journey to complete the NCARB ARE exam.
We are proud to continue this initiative in 2025, reaffirming OTJ’s commitment to the professional advancement of Black and African American talent in architecture and interior design. This year, two (2) scholarships will be awarded to offset exam fees and study materials for either the NCIDQ or NCARB ARE examinations.
Applicants will be selected based on the strength of a 250-word essay that reflects a clear commitment to personal and professional growth within the design industry. We encourage all qualified individuals to apply. For full application details, click here.
Questions may be directed to scholarship@otj.com.
