Are you contemplating if a career in architecture is a good choice for you? If you consider this, I have very good news for you. Architects are highly valued members of the workforce, that is, construction. Many opportunities are open to them, with a promising working future ahead.
Architects are individuals with a passion for design, and considering a career in architecture is a considerable choice. Before you embark on this journey, you must weigh the pros and cons to determine if this career path is right for you.
This article should give you a better understanding of this career path and its demand, providing clarity for architectural aspirants. So, let’s dive right into it without wasting time, shall we?
What is architecture, and who is an architect?
Architecture is the art of designing and developing structures for construction projects. It also includes the art of maintaining the structural condition of a building.
On the other hand, an architect plans and designs buildings and structures for clients. He or she works closely with the client to understand their ideas or requirements for a project and bring them to life. These licensed professionals prepare architectural specifications for a project and provide initial cost estimates for construction. Other roles or duties of an architect include;
- Using computer software to prepare structural specifications
- Develop final construction plans for a project
- Ensure that all building codes are adhered to
- They manage various contracts alongside various contractors
- They visit and monitor projects, making sure architectural plans are followed and client’s expectations are met
What are the qualities an architect possesses?
Here are some of the skills and qualities an architect is required to possess.
- Numerical ability
- Logical thinking (the ability to analyze)
- Creativity and ingenuity
- Spatial vision
- The ability for interpersonal relationships
- Ability to lead and work as a team
- Problem-solving skills
What are the advantages of becoming an architect?
To provide clarity for architectural aspirants, let’s look at some of the advantages of becoming one.
1. Rewarding salary
Architecture is very rewarding, offering a good salary and the satisfaction of seeing your vision come to life. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, architects earn $44.86 per hour and $93,310 per year on average. The study predicts a 5% growth over the next 10 years, faster than all other occupations.
2. Respected profession with diverse job opportunities
Because of this career’s skills and educational requirements, it is a well-respected profession. Additionally, architects have many job responsibilities and work on various daily tasks. These diverse responsibilities help them adapt and learn new skills to grow professionally.
3. It is a very interesting career path
No two days are ever alike for architects. They travel from place to place, supervising new sites, drawing new plans, maintaining structural conditions of both new and old structures, etc. A career path like this is sure to be exciting, even though it might appear stressful.
4. You boost your social life
Another key advantage of this career part is the chance to boost your social life. You get to work on new projects steadily, meeting new clients and different interesting characters to interact with. Surely working with interesting people will make your life interesting as well.
What are the advantages of becoming an architect?
1. Educational requirement and length of career path
Architects have a very demanding education requirement. It starts with getting a bachelor’s degree in architecture from a university accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). While working for this degree, you are bound to face rigorous coursework, which takes around 5 years to complete.
After getting the degree, you must complete a three-year internship before applying for licensure. After completing the internship program, you must take the Architect Registration Examination through the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards. You must pass the seven-part exam before you can begin working as a full-time professional.
2. Long work hours
As an architect, you often have a tight schedule and tend to work over 40 hours per week. You may even work extra hours to meet project deadlines. Sometimes, you even have to work evenings and weekends to complete tasks. Because of the extra long hours, most architects find it challenging and stressful.
3. High-pressure work
Another possible downside is the pressure that comes with an architect’s job. The architect carries all the responsibilities for the outcome of a project. If there are any mistakes or the project does not meet the client’s expectations, the architect is usually the one to bear the burden.
How to become an architect
Becoming an architect involves three crucial phases: education, training, and licensing.
- Education – You will need a bachelor’s degree in architecture earned through a 5-year Bachelor of Architecture degree program. Many also earn a master’s degree in architecture, which can take 1 to 5 additional years.
- Training – All states require architecture graduates to complete a lengthy paid internship, usually up to 3 years.
- Licensing – Licensing requirements include completing an architecture degree program, an internship training program, and passing the Architect Registration Examination.
FAQs
Is architecture a good-paying job?
Yes, it is. The median annual wage for architects was $93,310 in May 2023.
Are architects still in demand?
Yes, they are. The Bureau for Labor Statistics predicts a 5% increase in the next 10 years, more than other occupations.
Are there good job opportunities for architects with only a degree in architecture?
Yes, there are. You can work as a consultant and technical adviser, a real estate agent, a technical control agent for companies that manufacture materials and other construction products, for universities, etc.
Conclusion – Is a career in architecture a good choice?
Architecture is a very rewarding profession that is capable of providing a vast amount of career opportunities to its practitioners. Additionally, the annual pay is pretty decent, and the career outlook is expected to grow by an estimated 5% in the coming years.
However, individuals aspiring to become architects must evaluate the demand or requirements asserted to the field. Common traits needed include problem-solving skills, analytical skills, and commitment to working long hours.
While the stress and rigor may be deterring, the opportunity to leave a long-lasting impact and contribute to the growth of society can make this career path profoundly rewarding.
I hope you found this article helpful. You may also find this article on the different roles in construction helpful.
Thanks for reading.