Architecture is the art or science of designing and building durable buildings, follows certain rules in order to create works suitable to their purpose, pleasing to our eyes and capable to cause aesthetic pleasure.
Architectural students become highly educated engineers with knowledge in areas such as environmental aesthetics and functionality, architectural philosophies, architectural history, architectural sustainability, digital architectural photography, computer technology, the fundamentals of design communication, and graphic expression.
How to Select an Architecture School
Because architecture is such a diversified discipline, college and university programs differ greatly in terms of degrees offered, areas of focus, and levels of accreditation. But, regardless of which school you choose, approach the process in the same way you would a job interview: ask questions and gather as much information as possible. After all, you choose the school just as much as they do.
There are several factors to consider when choosing a school, such as whether the school offers programs that will ultimately led to a career as an architect. What are your career objectives, and can the school help you get there? Will a private school provide more post-graduation opportunities than a public university? What is the faculty’s reputation, and are they educated in the field or professional architects themselves? How much does it cost to attend? Are you willing to move to a different state? Obviously, these are only just few of the many factors to consider, but they all require answers before you pack your bags.
Programs of Study
Individuals seeking entry-level positions in the field of architecture may pursue an Associate of Applied Science in Architectural Technology degree. This degree readies students for work as a technician producing construction drawings and documents, or for continuing their education to earn a bachelor’s degree. Some programs at this tier may even offer architecture design concentrations.
Students interested in bachelor degree programs should consider which programs offer design courses in addition to foundational classes and whether a design-center curriculum is professional or pre-professional. Individuals who complete a professional program will receive a bachelor of architecture, or B.Arch, whereas those who complete a pre-professional program will receive a BS or BA in architectural studies.
Graduates who wish to pursue a master’s degree will find that most programs offer a wide range of design specializations, such as digital design, health design, and design criticism. Graduates of a pre-professional bachelor’s degree program are more likely to enter a professional master’s of architecture (MArch) program, whereas students with a bachelor of architecture may reach a post-professional master’s of architecture (MArch II) program.
On-Campus vs. Online
A degree is required to become a licensed architect. While attending college and enjoying campus life is ideal for some, students who have a family, job obligations, a disability, or another reason that prevents them from going to class on-campus can pursue accredited online architecture degrees at the bachelor’s, master’s, and certificate levels. If you’re serious about earning your degree online, it’s best to go with a school that’s accredited by one of the six regional accrediting agencies recognized by the US Department of Education. Also, the architecture program should indeed be accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). The NAAB-accredited schools provide the best outcomes and career options for architecture graduates.
Employment Opportunities
The architecture-related jobs are expected to grow quickly for all occupations through 2016. As expected there is always a fierce competition in order to get a job in the most prestigious enterprises, opportunities will be better for those who can excel with their creativity.
Besides employment growth, it is estimated that many additional job openings will arise from the need to replace the architects who are nearing retirement, others who start working in other occupations or stop working for other reasons.
In addition, you must keep in mind that this profession is geographically sensitive, this means that some locations may have many new projects and others just a few. On the other hand, you must also consider that many companies specialize in specific projects and buildings such as hospitals or office towers, and demand for these projects can vary by region.
Wages
The average salary for an architect in a country like the U.S. is $ 56,637, according to data obtained through surveys and other studies made in different types of companies operating in different geographic areas and industries. However, this figure can be dramatically affected by factors such as industry size, years of experience, etc.