How to Become a Professional Building Designer
An architect is a professional who designs buildings of several different types. These professionals often work within architectural design firms and/or start their own business. Salary for these professionals ranges from $40,000 to $125,000 each year according to the United States Department of Labor.
- Conduct a web search for colleges and universities that offer architecture degree programs. Type "architecture degree programs" into your preferred search engine. Browse through the search results to determine which architecture degree program is best suited for you.
- Complete the application process for admissions. Complete an application for admissions. Submit to this college and/or university your official high school transcripts, transcripts from other colleges you have attended and your high school diploma. You are notified upon your acceptance.
- Complete a FSFSA form for financial aid if you need funding. Go to FSFSA.gov and complete the online form. You need your tax documents from the year prior to complete this application. If you are a dependent you need your parents' tax documentation.
- Complete at least a bachelor degree program in architecture. This degree program provides you with the skills required to start a career as an architect.
- Complete an internship program during your senior year of your degree program. This internship provides you with hands-on training in the field and connections that could result in job offers after graduation. Obtain letters of reference at the end of this internship program.
- Build your portfolio. Usually when you complete your Capstone courses within a professional degree program you build a portfolio of the project in which you participated during your degree program.
- Register to take the National Council of Building Design Certification examination. This examination is required to become certified. When you register provide your portfolio and your letters of reference with your registration forms.
- Apply for open job positions in architecture firms. Your certification and educational background will aid you in making this process simpler.