Architects are specialists who are licensed to plan and design structures that are safe, practical and attractive. Architects are involved in every step of a structure's development, from a concept on paper to the actual construction. There are certain educational requirements that must be met in order to become an architect, such as a bachelor's or master's degree and the holding of an internship. Read on to find out more about the requirements to become a good architect.
An Architect's Educational Requirements
Potential architects need to finish a degree program which is accredited by the NAAB (National Architectural Accrediting Board) to be licensed in most American states. A bachelor's degree in architecture is the most commonly accepted standard, but a M.Arch (Master of Architecture) program is available for people that already have a bachelor's degree. There are various programs in architecture, like the Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Architectural Studies, or Bachelor of Environmental Design. Those enrolled in such programs need a master's degree to become a fully licensed architect. Those with a bachelor's in architecture can work toward their master's degree, training in fields such as solar design, historic preservation and design theory.
The bachelor's of architecture program usually takes about five years, while the non-professional programs take about four years to finish. A student can get their master's degree in two years if they have a bachelor's degree in architecture, or they can earn it in three years if they have a bachelor's degree in a non-architecture field.
Educational Prerequisites
An undergraduate architecture student will likely be asked to supply a portfolio of their designs. High-school GPA and scores on college entrance exams are also considered, as most architecture programs are very competitive. A student that wants to earn their master's in architecture has an advantage if they have prior design experience or an undergrad degree in art or one of the other humanities. Some architecture schools ask for a portfolio of the student's models and sketches. Once a student is enrolled in the master's program, they will likely need to meet certain requirements before they go on to their professional coursework, like taking classes in design, structural components, and architectural theory and history.
Curricula in Architectural Programs
The basic curricula are similar in both the bachelor's and master's programs. Topics discussed usually include materials and building construction, digital and freehand drafting, historical and modern architectural style, professional practice, environmental systems and architectural design. Classwork can be augmented by other work in a design studio, where the student uses their learning to create 3D models and drawings. Both the bachelor's and master's degree programs usually end in a research or design thesis assignment.
Post-Graduate Work
After graduation, potential architects have to do an internship that's administered by the NCARB (the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards). The program requires about three years' training, and interns get mentored by an already-licensed architect, gaining experience in various architectural skills. Once they've met all the requirements, interns can take the ARE (Architectural Registration Exam) to become fully licensed and registered.