What kind of degree do architects need

Architects are licensed professionals who are trained in the science and art of building design. They are responsible for the design and construction of buildings and other structures that are erected and used in various settings. Architects oversee not only the aesthetic appeal of a structure but also its safety and functionality. They must also take into consideration the economic aspects of buildings and ensure they meet the needs of the individuals who will be using them.

While there are several types of architects in various industries, the primary objective of all architects is to plan and design all components of a structure. The following are the most common types of architects practicing today:. These professionals are primarily concerned with the technical aspects of a structure, such as its thermal efficiency and water tightness.

Technical architects study and modify construction mechanics and details to make sure buildings meet regional and local construction standards and regulations. This type of architect is typically brought into a project to help advise on a project's adherence to local and national requirements and regulations. For example, a planning architect may outline a site's legal restrictions or submit a project to the local or regional authority for approval. A site architect is responsible for overseeing all activity on a construction site from start to finish.

A site architect may assign instructions to construction workers, procure the construction contract and ensure quality and safety are maintained throughout the project's duration. This type of architect works on the overall design and structure of a building.

A design architect may create the initial outline of a structure, formulate blueprints and adjust the building design to suit the client's preferences.

This professional may also play a role in the selection of the materials used to build the structure as well as oversee the construction and design team throughout the build process. While each state varies, most states require aspiring architects to obtain a five-year Bachelor of Architect degree through a program accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board. There are currently NAAB-accredited programs throughout the world at different institutions.

Typical courses in an accredited architect bachelor's program include project management, building systems, and environmental planning and impact analysis. Every state requires future architectures to participate in an internship program to be eligible for licensure. Most internship programs last three years and provide valuable experience that prepares individuals for a career as an architect.

Internships completed through the IDP will consist of 5, hours of work experience in architectural areas, including practice management, design, project management and pre-design. To become a practicing architect in your state, you must obtain licensure by passing the Architect Registration Examination.

Most states require a bachelor's degree and the completion of an internship to be eligible to take the exam. This exam is offered through the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards and is a seven-part pass-or-fail exam. After you have passed the Architect Registration Examination and become licensed, you can apply to work as an architect.

You may choose to work for a firm, private practice or in the specialty in which you completed your internship. In addition to the Architect Registration Examination, the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards also offers additional national certification. Architects may also help clients get construction bids, select contractors, and negotiate construction contracts.

Architects often collaborate with workers in related occupations, such as civil engineers , urban and regional planners , drafters , interior designers , and landscape architects. Architects spend much of their time in offices, where they meet with clients, develop reports and drawings, and work with other architects and engineers. They also visit construction sites to ensure clients' objectives are met and to review the progress of projects. Some architects work from home offices.

Most architects work full time and many work additional hours, especially when facing deadlines. Self-employed architects may have more flexible work schedules.

Get the education you need: Find schools for Architects near you! There are typically three main steps to becoming a licensed architect: completing a bachelor's degree in architecture, gaining relevant experience through a paid internship, and passing the Architect Registration Examination.

In all states, earning a bachelor's degree in architecture is typically the first step to becoming an architect. Most architects earn their degree through a 5-year Bachelor of Architecture degree program.

Many earn a master's degree in architecture, which can take 1 to 5 additional years. The time required depends on the extent of the student's previous education and training in architecture. A typical bachelor's degree program includes courses in architectural history and theory, building design with an emphasis on computer-aided design and drafting CADD , structures, construction methods, professional practices, math, physical sciences, and liberal arts.

Currently, 35 states require that architects hold a degree in architecture from one of the schools of architecture accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board NAAB. All state architectural registration boards require architecture graduates to complete a lengthy paid internship—generally lasting 3 years—before they may sit for the Architect Registration Examination.

Most new graduates complete their training period by working at architectural firms through the Architectural Experience Program AXP , a program run by NCARB that guides students through the internship process. Some states allow a portion of the training to occur in the offices of employers in related careers, such as engineers and general contractors.

Architecture students who complete internships while still in school can count some of that time toward the 3-year training period.

Interns in architectural firms may help design part of a project. They may help prepare architectural documents and drawings, build models, and prepare construction drawings on CADD. Interns may also research building codes and write specifications for building materials, installation criteria, the quality of finishes, and other related details.

Licensed architects take the documents that interns produce, make edits to them, finalize plans, and then sign and seal the documents. All states and the District of Columbia require architects to be licensed. Licensing requirements typically include completing a degree program in architecture, gaining relevant experience through a paid internship, and passing the Architect Registration Examination.

Most states also require some form of continuing education to keep a license. Continuing education requirements vary by state but usually involve additional education through workshops, university classes, conferences, self-study courses, or other sources. After many years of work experience, some architects advance to become architectural and engineering managers. These managers typically coordinate the activities of employees and may work on larger construction projects.

Analytical skills. Architects must understand the content of designs and the context in which they were created. For example, architects must understand the locations of mechanical systems and how those systems affect building operations.

Communication skills. Architects share their ideas, both in oral presentations and in writing, with clients, other architects, and workers who help prepare drawings. Many also give presentations to explain their ideas and designs.

Architects design the overall look of houses, buildings, and other structures. Therefore, the final product should be attractive and functional. Organizational skills. Architects often manage contracts. Therefore, they must keep records related to the details of a project, including total cost, materials used, and progress.

Technical skills. You will work under the supervision of licensed architects for a period established by the individual architectural registration board. You can find more specific information in the Architectural Experience Program Guidelines. The ARE, which is made up of seven divisions, is used by all 54 U.

Although this certification is not mandatory, it could, according to the organization, facilitate your ability to be registered in multiple jurisdictions. You can apply for this certification after completing the Architectural Experience Program, passing all divisions of the ARE, and getting licensed by a state registration board.

Many jurisdictions' registration boards also require that one participate in continuing education. They will renew licenses only for those who provide evidence that they have completed this requirement. Armed with your degree, practical experience, and license, you will be able to apply for professional jobs. Prospective employers will be looking for candidates who have certain qualities in addition to their technical skills. The following qualifications are from job announcements found in various sources:.

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