University of Notre Dame, RISD, or UC Berkeley for architecture?

It’s true that BArch holders do not need an MArch to become licensed architects (and in some states they don’t even need a BArch).

However, many BArch holders will choose to get an MArch on top of the BArch. The may wish to expand their studio exposure or add a degree from a prestigious school of architecture or focus on a specific architecture niche. At some firms the MArch is tacitly understood to be a requirement for partnership.

Over the years as architecture has become more technical and specialized, many schools have phased out their BArch in favor of BA/BS+MArch programs. As I said it’s a broad industry which encompasses several educational paths.