How to become an architect

 

 

Introduction | Outlook - Career Challenges | Education | Becoming a Licensed Architect | Resources - NY Schools | Other Schools - Scholarships

 

Education

 

There are various degree choices depending on the area of concentration the prospective student is interested in. An undergraduate, Bachelor of Architecture degree may take five years to earn, requiring a thesis and internship. By contrast a person interested in an interior design career, may choose between a full Bachelors degree or a certification program, some taking as little as one year. Most areas of study also offer graduate degrees. An architecture degree candidate may be expected to take courses in art, design, history, math and the physical sciences as well as courses focusing on building construction and engineering.

 

All states require individuals to be licensed to practice as an architect. In addition to a degree in architecture from an accredited school, completion of certain number of hours in internship is required for the candidate, typically a period of three years for someone with a Master’s degree in Architecture. In order to be licensed the candidate must also pass the Architect Registration Examination (ARE). Since these licenses are bestowed by each state individually, the licensee is only allowed to conduct business as an architect in the state(s) he is licensed in.

 

Choosing an Architecture School

 

If one is interested in pursuing a professional degree that will ultimately lead to licensure, it is important to keep in mind that the school must be accredited. The National Architectural Accrediting Board is the only one agency authorized to accredit academic architecture programs in the United States.

 

Other important factors to look into are areas of concentration such as landscape, computers, interior design, etc, off-campus and/or foreign study opportunities, shops, libraries, and other facilities and class sizes. A school's career placement service department is also something to be considered for internship opportunities. Beside the architectural program, other factors such as location, tuition, cost of living, available financial aid, campus environment and extracurricular opportunities should also be considered in selecting a school that fits a student’s personal goals and interests.

 

Architecture School Continuing Education

 

Continuing education in architecture is popular and in some cases required for architects. Often, an architect may desire to learn a new skill. In states such as New York, however, an architect must take a certain number of continuing education units in order to renew their license.

 

Architects work in a world of constantly changing technology. Practice in this evolving environment requires continual improvement of knowledge and skills. It is important that architects stay up-to-date with changes and developments in the profession.

 

Options for continuing education in architecture are mainly confined to the boundaries of traditional education. Many institutions offer accelerated degree programs along with evening and weekend course schedules that can accommodate the needs of working adults. Online programs aren't as practical for architecture as most courses are hands-on studio design classes that couple with technical computer applications such as AutoCAD and BIM.