Thursday, April 23, 2009

Building a Career in Architecture


Building a Career in Architecture

ob Description of Architects:

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.

Employment Facts for Architects:

Architects held about 132,000 jobs in 2006. Most jobs were in architectural firms with fewer than five workers. A small number worked for residential and nonresidential building construction firms and for government agencies. About 1 in 5 architects was self-employed.

Educational Requirements for Architects:

There are three types of professional degrees in architecture offered through colleges and universities:
  • 5-year Bachelor of Architecture programs
intended for students entering programs from
  • high school or with no previous architectural training
  • 2-year Master of Architecture programs for students with a preprofessional undergraduate de
  • a preprofessional undergraduate degree in architecture or a related area
  • 3 or 4-year Master of Architecture programs offered to students with degrees in other disciplines

    • Other Requirements for Architects:

    In the United States those who want to provide architectural services must be licensed. To become licensed one must earn a professional degree in architecture, complete a period of practical training or internship, and pass all divisions of the ARE (Architect Registration Examination). In most states, continuing education is required to maintain licensure.

    Generally, the professional degree in architecture must be from a school of architecture accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). A few states don't have this requirement.

    Advancement of Architects:

    A licensed architect, after gaining experience, may take on increasingly responsible duties and eventual managing entire projects. Architects may advance to supervisory or managerial positions in large firms. Some become partners in established firms while others set up their own practices.

    Job Outlook for Architects:

    Employment of architects is projected to grow fast than the average for all occupations through 2016. Prospective architects may face competition for positions at prestigious firms but those who are creative can set themselves apart. 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.

    How Much Do Architects Earn?:

    Median annual earnings of wage and salary architects were $64,150 in 2006. Recent graduates working on internships will earn much less. Those starting out in private practices will go through a period of time when they are operating at a loss.

    Use the Salary Wizard at Salary.com to find out how much architects currently earn in your city.

    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;

    Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2008-09 Edition, Architects, Except Landscape and Naval, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos038.htm (visited July 28, 2008).

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