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Arkansas Institute for Building Preservation Trades
 AIBPT Home About the Arkansas Institute Program Outline Class Descriptions Graduate Profile Frequently Asked Questions |
Frequently Asked Question's
Q: Does the Program only begin in the fall semester and, going full-time, how long will it take to earn the Associate degree?
A: Students may enter the program in the fall or spring semesters. However, the best time to begin is in the fall since the classes are sequential and build logically by semester. The program can be completed in two years.
Q: Are there summer classes?
A: Not at this time.
Q: Is previous construction experience necessary to register?
A: No. Our program is structured to assume everyone is learning from the beginning. This levels the field for all new students and insures everyone learns the correct way.
Q: If I already have college credits can they be transferred in towards my requirements?
A: Yes. We will need an official college transcript to evaluate which classes will equate to our classes.
Q: Are there opportunities for part-time employment?
A: The Institute has some paid internships and work-study positions. Typical projects include: building demonstration pieces for classes, workshop assistants, and facility upgrades on our building. Students have also found part-time work doing repair and preservation work for local building owners and working with local contractors.
Q: What kinds of jobs will the program prepare me for?
A: Practical skills combined with preservation training make you marketable to building restoration contractors. Other opportunities include: job site / project manager, artisan specialist (windows, stairs, doors etc.), technical services department of State Historic Preservation Offices and State and National Park Services (with historic structures).
Q: What kind of housing is available for out-of-area students?
A: Students have chosen a variety of housing options. One bought a 'fixer-upper' and worked to restorer it for resale after graduation, others have found apartments and homes for rent and still others have teamed up as roommates to save on expenses. Contact the Institute for a list of realtors and rental agents.
Q: Do you have students who aren't local residents?
A: Yes. We have had students from around the state, the region, Oklahoma, Kansas and New Mexico.
