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Architects design buildings and other structures. In
addition to considering the way these buildings and
structures look, they also make sure they are
functional, safe, economical and suit the needs of the
people who use them. Architecture career opportunities are expected to grow
faster than average, but scoring a job at one of the most
prestigious firms will be tough. A strong portfolio of work
demonstrating your creativity can get you in the door. LEED
certified architects who can create green designs will have
an edge in the job hunt.
On average Architecture careers are associated with
salaries in the $53,000 to $92,000 range, but entry-level
architects can expect to earn considerably less. With
experience and talent, Architecture majors can move into top
level and supervisory positions. Jobs are found with
architecture firms, engineering services, building
construction firms and government agencies. Many architects
are self-employed. During a career, architects work with
Interior Designers, Landscape Architects, Engineering
Managers and Urban and Regional Planners to complete jobs.
Architecture majors learn how to design homes, buildings,
hospitals, hotels, rooms, industrial parks and urban centers
taking factors like safety, budgets and functionality into
account. Students study design, engineering and business to
prepare for a career as an architect. In this major you’ll
need to be creative, artistic and a good problem solver. For
most projects during your career you’ll work with other
architects and professionals so you should be a team player.
Typically, Architecture majors enroll in a 5-year
bachelors degree programs at a college, university or
technical school. Masters degrees are popular for students
who already have a bachelors degree. Certificate and
associates degrees are also available through technical
schools, career colleges, community colleges, online
schools, 4-year colleges and universities.
If you’re considering the Architecture major, explore
other related majors in the field including Architectural
History and Criticism; Architectural Technology/Technician;
Architecture (BArch, BA/BS, MArch, MA/MS, PhD); Architecture
and Related Services; City/Urban, Community and Regional
Planning; Environmental Design/Architecture; General
Historic Preservation and Conservation; Interior
Architecture and Landscape Architecture (BS, BSLA, BLA,
MSLA, MLA, PhD).
Employment Facts for Architects:
Architects held about 141,000 jobs in 2008. Most of
these jobs were in the architectural, engineering, and
related services industry. A small number worked for
residential and nonresidential building construction
firms and for government agencies. About 21% of all
architects was self-employed.
A Day in an Architect's Life:
On a typical day an architect will:
- Discuss the objectives, requirements, and budget of
a project;
- Provide various predesign services which may include
conducting feasibility and environmental impact
studies, selecting a site, or specifying the
requirements the design must meet;
- Prepare drawings and present ideas for the client to
review;
- Develop final construction plans that show the
building's appearance as well as details for its
construction;
- Follow building codes, zoning laws, fire
regulations, and other ordinances;
- Make necessary changes throughout the planning
process;
Job Outlook for Architects:Employment of architects is projected to grow faster
than the average for all occupations through 2018.
Prospective architects may face competition for
positions at prestigious firms. To increase one's
chances of getting an internship after graduation,
prospective architects should gain career-related
experience in an architectural firm while still in
school. Those who know CADD technology will also have an
advantage.
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