I hope that all is well by you! I am hoping to pursue a Master of Architecture, though I have little academic experience in the
field. I have a Bachelor of Arts in French and English from Amherst
College and a few years of experience in communications, one of which
was spearheading the marketing department of a small residential design
firm in San Francisco.
I am wondering, are there any reputable programs
you could recommend that are receptive to students pivoting from
another kind of career? I, unfortunately, do not have many
college-level math or art classes to my name, though I am happy to
enroll in a few this fall if need be. I am most interested in
sustainable design and institutional projects.
Any advice you have is much appreciated!
________
Thanks for reaching out to me. First, I will suggest you
obtain a copy of Becoming an Architect as it will answer this question
and others as you become an architect.
The two best sources for potential colleges for studying architecture are the following:
NAAB National Architectural Accrediting Board
http://www.naab.org/architecture-programs/school-search/
To
become an architect, you will need to accomplish three tasks -
1) education), 2) experience, and 3) examination. For education, he
will need to complete the a professional degree in architecture that is
accredited by NAAB.
There are three degrees - 1)
Bachelor of Architecture (5 years), 2) Master of Architecture following a
pre-professional degree (BS or BA in Architecture) (6 years) and 3)
Doctor of Architecture (Univ of Hawaii - 7 years).
As
you have a BA degree, you may pursue the Master of Architecture (a
variation of #2) for those that have a degree in another discipline. I
cannot say for certain, but there are at least 50-60 programs -- see
either of the websites listed above. I typically do not recommend
programs because there are so many variables, but would be glad to touch
base after you have developed a list.
Depending on
the program to which you apply, you may need to have calculus as a
prerequisite; as well, you may wish to take ART classes to help you
develop your portfolio.
Plus, I would be MORE than pleased to answer additional questions as needed.
Also, I would suggest you pursue a summer program -- this summer if possible. Each year, I compile a list of the programs.
http://archcareers.blogspot.com/2017/02/summer-programs-in-architecture-2017.html
Again, stay in touch.