How to Become an Architect
Architects are responsible for constructing the buildings that house us and provide protection from the elements. Because this is such a noble profession much time for training is necessary. Learn how to become an architect so that you can allow your creativity and discipline to be expressed as your life's vocation.
Architects are visionary individuals who like a sense of order. They are able to see a completed project in their mind's eye and can create the blueprints to make that fantasy become a reality. Many people who decide to become architects enjoy drawing, painting and building and want to develop these natural talents into a profession. The process to become an architect can be a long road fraught with study, training and practice, but the end result is a job to be proud of. The steps to become an architect include:
- A strong course of study in high school. Some students are aware from an early age that they want to become architects and this gives them a time advantage. During the high school years budding architects should take classes in algebra and calculus, along with advanced sciences such as chemistry and physics. Courses in art, drawing and computer technology should round out the curriculum to prepare the student for college.
- A minimum of a Bachelor's degree in architecture. When pursuing the architectural major in college, students have two options: a five year program that will see them fully licensed as architects at the culmination of their studies, or a traditional four year course of study wherein they will receive a Bachelor of Science with a concentration in Architecture. Those opting for the four year plan will need to take additional certification classes to be fully licensed and begin operating as an architect. Both plans require heavy course loads of classes in graphics, architectural history and planning and visual communications.
- An internship. Putting into practice the theories learned in school is invaluable for architects because so much of their daily work is hands-on. The internship experience is normally a part of their final year of college and includes a full semester of shadowing an actual architect. Interns are invited to work with a team of architects to complete a project and their participation is included as a part of their grade. Some schools require this portion of the curriculum to be completed abroad, as the ability to study the architecture of other countries expands the visionary abilities of the future architect and helps him to think outside of the box.
At the end of his studies the student is ready to embark upon a challenging but exciting career in architecture. His training and education have prepared him to work in any number of industries, including government, advertisement and commercial enterprises.