Discover Architecture: A Program for All Aspiring Architects

Charlotte Wyman
Hamilton College, Class of 2018


Discover Architecture program at the Illinois School of Architecture was a highly valuable experience for me. As a rising college sophomore, I decided to take two weeks off from my summer internship position at an architecture firm in Chicago. This was a decision my employer highly encouraged and one that I found to be ultimately rewarding. By the end of the two weeks, I had gained both an understanding of what my experience as an architecture student would be, and a reaffirmation of why I wanted to pursue architecture as a career.

I remember on the first day we were put into groups and challenged to build the tallest standing structure from spaghetti that could support one marshmallow at the top. Not only was this a great bonding activity, but it also encouraged a new level of innovation and experimentation that would come in handy in the next two weeks. 

Throughout the program we were challenged to think creatively and abstractly, but also work under strict time constraints. For both of the major projects assigned, we had to translate abstract figures into renderings. Initially we experimented with paper cutouts, each creating our own walls that formed a repetitive, multidimensional pattern (as pictured below). Our second project was coming up with our own three-dimensional cardboard cutouts. We were able to use a laser cutter to produce our shapes.  We were then challenged to create a site plan, elevation, and multiple sections to finish by the end of the program. Both of these projects served as great introductions into the basics of creating renderings. At the same time, working under a schedule challenged us all at some points to work under pressure, while still being able to produce high quality work.  

 

Attending lectures and working in the studio consumed most of the day and evenings were always full of activities. We were often able to explore campus; planned events included scavenger hunts, movie nights, bowling, or just playing games; there was also a field trip to Chicago with a walking tour of the skyscapers, a river and boat tour of the city, and a visit to an architecture firm. Meals were served at the dining hall right across adjacent to residence hall, and the School was only a ten-minute walk away. I found the program to be very well-organized, and there was never a moment where I found myself with nothing to do. 

 

All in all, Discover challenged me to learn quickly and question my way of thinking about building, shape and design. Not only did I leave the program with well-formed basic level skills in drawing and rendering, I could finally picture myself as an architect and designer. This summer, I am in a six-week architecture program at Harvard University’s Graduate School of Design, and the skills I learned in Discover have served me extremely well. 

If you are interested in architecture or design at all I would highly recommend this program. It was a great way for me to test the waters and explore my interest in architecture before committing to it.  

Listing of architecture summer programs.

http://archcareers.blogspot.com/2016/01/architecture-summer-programs-summer-2016.html

Study Architecture - NEW

Just this past week, ASCA launched a new website - StudyArchitecture.com

From the home page.  

• Have you ever wondered how you can make an impact? Ever imagined how to create sustainable communities, how to make urban spaces more personal, or how to use design thinking to improve how people work, live and explore? It is simple. Study Architecture. As an architecture student, the built environment is your canvas, and imagination is your only limit. Explore StudyArchitecture.com to find a wealth of resources, including where to learn, what to know, and the latest news in the global architecture community.

Below are the main sections.

Where to Study - allows you to search from the accredited programs that offer degrees in architecture.

What to Know - connects you to a number of resources.

What's New - links to a periodic blog on all topics related to studying architecture.

Your Journey - provides you a road map to becoming an architect and making an impact.

Check it out!

http://www.studyarchitecture.com/

Becoming an Architect - Undergraduate in another Discipline

I was recently doing some research online about studying architecture and came across your blog. I can't seem to find a straight answer to my question which is: can you become an architect with a bachelor's degree in something that has nothing to do with architecture, and if so how? I would imagine that one could study anything during undergraduate years, and then apply for a master's architecture program. Is this correct? Also, what type of course work should someone enrolled in a master's architecture program expect?
Thank you very much in advance!
______________

My expertise is in the process of becoming an architect in the U.S.; as such, my comments/answers are from that perspective.

To become an architect for more jurisdictions in the U.S., one needs to have 1) education, 2) experience, and 3) examination.

To meet the education standard, one must possess an accredited degree in architecture - a BArch, MArch, or DArch.  For the Master of Architecture, one can pursue what is typically a 3-4 year graduate degree following an undergraduate degree in most any discipline.

So, what you state below - I would imagine that one could study anything during undergraduate years, and then apply for a master's architecture program. Is this correct? - is correct.

As for what to pursue as an undergraduate, it will vary depending on the individual.  It is common that the degree would be related to design and architecture - civil engineering, fine arts, landscape architecture, etc.  But it could be completely unrelated - English, finance, etc.

Ultimately, I would suggest you and others pursue an undergraduate in which you will enjoy and do well academically to allow for graduate admission.  As well, most graduate programs require a portfolio for admission -- thus, take courses in fine art and design that will allow you to produce materials for a portfolio.

Best. Dr. Architecture

Decline in Licensure Rates

So, this week, the AIA released the third quarter ABI (Architecture Billings Index); for me, that was not so much interesting, but later the article had a pie chart (see below) highlighting the reasons for the ongoing decline in rates of licensure according to firm leaders.

In viewing the chart more closely, it is clear that the primary reason for the decline is "few benefits/incentives - 32%.  Thus, why would one become an architect if there is no benefit or incentive.  If one wishes to be in the profession, simply obtain the degree and work for a firm under the supervision of an architect.  In this scenario, they would not be able to call themselves an architect or open their own firm (a valid reason to pursue licensure).  

But from stories I have heard, firms do not provide any additional financial compensation when a staff becomes licensed.  Typically, there is no more responsibility just because the individual is an architect.

To stem this decline, the profession needs to provide incentive; in turn, we need to provide benefit or incentive to clients to hire architects.  

Most of the other reasons are, in my opinion, "complaining.  The "process is too costly, not prepared for the ARE, etc." are just excuses from the candidate/intern.

I do find it interesting that a full 13% are not fully committed to a career in architecture; while this sounds like a valid reason, why are they not fully committed.

Bottom line, what can the profession do to improve the benefit of becoming an architect?  Is money the solution?  I hope not, but a raise when becoming licensed certainly would help.  I do think more firms help subsidize the ARE and IDP.

What else can be done?  I am not sure, but do not law firms celebrate when their staff pass the bar.  The AIA does provide free convention registration to those who have become licensed in the past year.

As an educator, I try to do my part and strongly encourage my students/graduates to pursue licensure, but what should I tell them is waiting for them?

Just my thoughts!

Design Activity in the Third Quarter Opens with a Bang

http://www.aia.org/practicing/AIAB104451

Firms see many reasons for declining licensure rates among younger staff

Becoming an Architect: Opportunities Abound - 15 years later

Having just returned from the IDP Conference in Miami, FL this past weekend, I am inspired to bring back an article entitled, Becoming an Architect: Opportunities Abound, that I authored in 1998 and appeared in the January 1998 issue of Architectural Record.

As you may know, NCARB has been made adjustments to IDP over recent years and is also proposing some additional changes all in an effort to streamline the program and more encouraging to architectural graduates to become licensed.  

Currently, the process of becoming an architect is approximately 12 years according to NCARB by the Numbers (2014).  Does this length of time discourage aspiring architects?  Are fewer interns becoming licensed because of the process?

Regardless of the answer, the article I wrote back in 1998 inquired what "you" would do if a young person asked you about becoming an architect.  What would you do?

I will emphasize what I shared back then -- I will hope you gladly and strongly encourage them to pursue architecture and licensure as the education and experience prepares one for any number of careers in architecture and beyond.

Continue the conversation.

Lee W. Waldrep
@DocArchitecture


_____________

Becoming an Architect: Opportunities Abound

Lee W. Waldrep, Ph.D.

Architectural Record: Speak Out - January 1998 Issue

If a young person who wanted to be an architect sought your advice, what would you do?  Would you encourage them by sharing the positive aspects of the profession -- the creativity and variety plus the opportunities to improve the quality of life through affecting the built environment?  Or would you highlight the negatives -- five or seven years of schooling, a minimum three-year internship, a daunting licensing exam, and long hours with low pay.

As an educational administrator, I meet aspiring architects daily.  I encourage them wholeheartedly providing them with the resources and means they need to make an informed career choice.  I inform them that as an architect, opportunities abound because an architectural education is a springboard to a myriad of careers.

Statistics from the United States Department of Labor project that by 2005 the number of positions available to architects will increase by 25,000 to a total of 121,000.  National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) statistics indicate that by 2005 there will be almost 60,000 graduates vying for those 25,000 positions.  Based on these numbers, we should immediately shut down half of the degree programs in architecture before supply overwhelms demand.

But consider this:

•           According to 1991 American Institute of Architects (AIA) membership statistics, one-sixth (over 8,000) of the AIA members indicated that their primary professional activities were outside of an architectural firm or private practice.

•           In recent publications, both AIA and American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS) highlight career options for architectural graduates.  In Career Options: Opportunities through Architecture AIAS lists over 100 disciplines where architectural graduates can apply their skills.

As an architect, you may have colleagues who are earning their livelihood in related fields.  In fact, you may be one who has entered a field that builds upon your education as an architect.  Just as I have pursued a related career field, educational administration, there are many “architects” who are pursuing other career fields.  In the spring issue of its college newsletter, Texas A&M profiled two graduates who capitalized on their education as architects to become an Air Force instructor and sculptor. 

Anecdotal estimates suggest that only 50% of graduates enter the profession as licensed architects.  If this is true, we should not be worrying about closing down architecture programs.  Rather, we should be finding ways to show graduating students how their hard-won skills can contribute to success in a variety of fields.  Conversely, our schools and professional organizations should be networking with other professional and business groups, informing them of the broad, creative, problem-solving skills that trained architects possess.  One need not be a licensed, practicing architect to make a contribution with these skills.

One resource designed to help future “educated-as-architects” individual is Careers in Architecture: Choices, Pathways, Success.  Published by the AIA, this book devotes a full chapter to “looking beyond architecture,” highlighting careers in landscape architecture; interior design; lighting design; acoustical design; engineering; construction; urban and regional planning; architectural history, theory, and criticism; and environmental and behavioral research.  As the section concludes, “the bottom line is that the building enterprise is an exceedingly broad field; the possibilities are endless.”

So, the next time a young man or woman comes to you inquiring about becoming an architect, you can feel confident giving them your wholehearted encouragement.  We need more architects who are not architects.  As Leslie Kanes Weisman, of the New Jersey Institute of Technology recently said, “I am certain that architectural graduates who are in command of the powerful problem defining and problem solving skills of the designer, will be fully capable of designing their own imaginative careers by creating new definitions of meaningful work for architects that are embedded in the social landscape of human activity and life’s events.”

Military to Architecture

Good afternoon air I am currently in the United States Marine Corps, I am about to get out and want to go to college and become an architect. I was wondering what would be the best way to do this. What college to go to and what classes to take.

Thank you or your time I look forward to hearing back from you soon.
________________

Congrats on your interest in pursuing architecture as a career field.

First, I would suggest you read previous posts on the blog - http://archcareers.blogspot.com --.  Next, I would obtain a copy of Becoming an Architect, 2nd ed. as it outlines the entire process of becoming an architect.

To become an architect, you need to accomplish three tasks 1) education - NAAB accredited professional degree in architecture,; 2) experience - complete the requirements of IDP; and 3) exam - pass the ARE.

As there are over 125 programs in architecture, I make it a point not to recommend one over another; it is your job to research the programs to determine which is the best fit for you.  Typically, you will have courses in studio, technology, structures, construction, and general education courses but it varies from program to program.

I wish you the best and do contact me again if you have any questions.

Becoming an Architect: What to do in High School

i'm going to high school next year, and i want to be an architect. Do you have any advice for me? Buildings to see, books to read, classes to take? Thanks so much!

___________

First, as you are just now about to enter high school, know that you are ahead of the game.  Many students do not discover their interest in architecture until well into high school or after.

Start by planning to attend one of many high school summer programs during your high school summers; for a list visit - www.archcareers.org.  These are great opportunities to help you learn more about the process and determine if becoming an architect is what you want to do.

Next, learn to draw by hand -- do not worry about drafting or CAD which is taught by most high schools.  Instead, take ART or creative courses - drawing, painting, ceramics, etc.  If your high school does not offer ART, simply buy a sketchbook and draw 30 minutes per day of everyday objects.  You are trying to connect your brain, eye, and hand.

Also, explore and see the built environment around you.  It is great to see the architecture around you but start with your own house.  Become a detective and learn the materials of a buildings -- why did the architect do what he/she did.

Contact local architects to possibly shadow for a day or so to learn more about the career. Visit architecture schools to consider but also to see what happens in college.

A last idea is to obtain a copy of Becoming an Architect, 2nd. Edition.  These ideas should get you started, but feel free to contact me again as you explore architecture.

Best.

Transfer to Architecture

I'd really appreciate any information you can provide me with. The story goes: I just finished my first year in architectural engineering at Penn State this past May and am currently taking a year off after my family ran into financial issues over the summer. I'm looking to transfer to a Florida school (being a Florida resident it would be much cheaper), but I want to go into architecture. I just started researching all this information a few weeks ago, so I'm not really clear as to what it is that I'm looking for as far as architecture programs.

I found that there are only three schools offering a NAAB accredited B.Arch, one of which is an expensive private school, one of which is in a fairly bad area, and the other a school that I'd never heard of until starting my research. There are other larger name schools that offer Bachelors of Arts or Science in Architecture, but I'm wondering what the difference is. Will one allow me to begin my career out of undergraduate school and the other require more years? Should I be applying to these non-accredited programs or is that not a bright idea? I'm just very worried that I'm already missing out on a year of school and I don't want to waste any more time. I apologize for taking up you any of your time.

______________

First, thanks for reaching out to me to gain some insight on "becoming an architect."  I would very much suggest you obtain a copy of my book, Becoming an Architect, 2nd ed., as it will answer many of the questions you have but I will address what you ask below.

Next, to meet the educational requirements of becoming an architect, you need a NAAB accredited professional degree; this can be accomplished by the traditional 5-year Bachelor of Architecture or the 4+2 years Bachelor of Arts/Science in Architecture + Master of Architecture.  In other words, it is OK to pursue the four-year undergraduate degree as long as you recognize that you will need to pursue the two-year Master of Architecture.

Given your year at PSU, it is unlikely that you will be able to transfer into the 2nd year of the Bachelor of Architecture because of courses you will have missed; it will probably take a full five years to complete.  For this reason, the 4+2 route may be better for you.  You would still have five more years of school - three years to complete the four-year undergraduate degree and two years for the Master of Architecture.

To view all of the accredited programs in Florida, visit NAAB.org -- see below.

Florida A & M University	School of Architecture
Florida Atlantic University	School of Architecture
Florida International University	School of Architecture
University of Florida	School of Architecture
University of Miami	School of Architecture
University of South Florida	School of Architecture and Community Design

Now, one program to consider is the University of Central Florida - http://svad.cah.ucf.edu/students/degrees/BDes-Architecture/ -- They have a new four-year degree that is public which would feed to a Master of Architecture

http://www.architecture.ucf.edu/ -- below is from the website.

In collaboration with Valencia Community College and the University of Florida (UF), UCF offers the Bachelor of Design in Architecture. Through the 2+2+2 program, you can complete your associate’s degree at Valencia, your bachelor’s degree at UCF and your master’s degree at UF. It’s convenient, affordable and flexible.

So, you might be able to attend Valencia next year, proceed to UCF and move to UF for the Master of Architecture.

Also, do not eliminate the other programs just because they are private or you do not know anything about them.  Sometimes, private institutions provide more financial aid.

During your year off, look to take a few preparatory courses based on conversations with these potential programs.  Draw, sketch, draw what you see.  Visit architectures - look at your surroundings.

Have fun and feel free to contact me again if you have more questions.

Education in India vs. United States.

I am a student from India. I have completed my higher secondary education and I want to study architecture (5-year B.arch ). I want to ask you that will it make any difference to me if I do it India and if I do it from USA.

What will be the difference between a student graduating from India  and from USA? I am confused about  studying architecture in India or in USA . Will you please guide me?

________________

Given I know nothing of architectural education in India, it is difficult for me to answer your question.  One issue to consider is what you wish to do with regards to architecture longer term.

Instead, I suggest you visit the following websites to learn more about the institutions that offer architecture programs in the U.S. --

http://www.naab.org/ - National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB)
http://www.acsa-arch.org/schools/guide-to-architecture-schools/search-the-guide - Guide to Architecture Schools.

You should know that the BArch is not the only path to pursue the accredited degree in the U.S.; you can pursue the pre-professional degree and afterwards pursue the Master of Architecture.

Another resource is Becoming an Architect, 2nd edition.

Dr. Architecture

Degree Path - Which Choice?

I stumbled upon your blog and website when I was doing some research on architecture programs and only wish I could have found it earlier. Better late then never though. I have learned quiet a bit from reading questions that others have asked you on your blog and am in the middle of reading Becoming An Architect: A Guide to Career in Design and will continue to read both. I did though have some indivdual questions for you that I hope you can answer or guide me towards one. 

I am currently a student at Georgia Southern University and just finished my second year. Even though GA Southern doesn't have an architecture program I chose to go there to complete my core classes, its close to home, and financial reasons. Now that I am finished with my core I am a little lost at what to do next.I had my heart and mind set on transferring to GA Tech next Spring (2013) but after this past semester it might not happen.  

My standing GPA is a 3.40 and when I chose my classes at GA Southern I made sure that they were the ones that GA Tech require transfer pre-architecture students to take but after this past semester and my low GPA I might not be able to get into GA Tech.

After doing some research I have looked at some options. Because I  want to complete my bachelors in arch in state to keep from being in debt, I have four options: GA Tech, Savannah College of Arts and Design, Southern Polytechnic State University, or Major in Interior Design at GA Southern University. After I complete my bachelors, I want to get my Master in Arch from out of state, possibly ****

In doing my research, I discovered that GA Tech's B Arch is not NAAB Accredited and SCAD's and Southern Poly's B Arch are. This past spring, at Ga Southern, I took Interior Design Graphics to gain some basic knowledge on drafting and using the tools to create plans. I ended up making an A in the class after putting a lot of hard work and all nighters. 

I would like to ask you to help me figure out and narrow my options.

___________

Actually, the Master of Architecture at GA Tech is the accredited degree; their undergraduate degree is a pre-professional degree; this is different than the BArch offered by Southern Poly.  SCAD offers a BFA with the accredited Master of Architecture.

http://www.arch.gatech.edu/undergraduate/program_of_study
The four-year undergraduate program in Architecture at Georgia Tech is a pre-professional program that fulfills the preparatory requirements for admission to most two-year professional architecture programs.

With that as introduction, you must decide which is the best path for you to obtain the professional accredited degree in architecture.  Given that you have completed two years at GA Southern, you have choices - 1) complete the degree at GA Southern and attend one of over 90 Master of Architecture programs across the country; or 2) transfer to GA Tech or another program to either complete the BArch (Southern) or the pre-professional degree to later attend the Master of Architecture.

It has been my experience that most students want to start architecture as soon as possible.  Towards that end, apply to GA Tech while still completing your degree at GA Southern.  If you gain admission, you can make decision.  If you do not you can continue your degree.

Regardless, be in touch with the program to which you wish to apply and ask lots of questions.

I wish you the best and feel free to ask more questions if needed.

Becoming an Architect

I am a resident of Mumbai, India

 

I just came across you through a website.. namely Archcareers.org. 

actually presently.. I have just given a high school exam of class 10th. i want to become a architect.its my dream ambition. actually i want to go in building designing and urban planning sectors in architecture.

 

so, sir I request you to please guide me that what all i have to do, which exams i need to compete. etc. in order to become a architect.

 

I will be thankful to you.

___________

 

My expertise is in becoming an architect in the U.S., not India.  Thus, I will encourage you to review the following website as it relates to becoming an architect in the U.S.

http://www.archcareers.org

I can imagine the process is different in India.  I did find the website below that may be helpful.

http://www.coa.gov.in/

Sorry, I cannot be of more assistance.

High School to Architecture School

I'm a senior in high school. Lately, I have been thinking alot about what i want to study in college and i have decided i want to be an architect. The problem is i only took one class this year and from what i understand, the architecture industry is very competitive. I have a 25 on my ACT and my GPA is around 3.4. Is there any hope for me getting into an architecture school?

___________

Bottom line, there is hope for you to gain admission to architecture school.  I suggest you begin the process of researching architecture programs via -- www.naab.org -- and -- www.archschools.org -- to learn which programs are a good fit for you.

Once you have narrowed down your choices, plan to visit a few of them and learn of their admissions processes and requirements. 

There is a full range of programs available meaning there is one that is right for you.  If your high school credentials are not adequate, you can consider attending a community college first to build your academics and transfer.

Best to you on your path -- You may also consider attending a summer program this summer -- visit www.archcareers.org -- for a list.

Finally, obtain the book Becoming an Architect, 2nd Ed. to learn all you need to know to become an architect.

Dr. Architecture

Summer Program - Aptitude for Architecture?

I've been searching for a program where I could try my hand at architecture and determine if I have any talent for the filed. After exploring your blog, I came across three options that would give me exactly what I need. Berkeley, Cornell and UCLA offer short introduction to architecture courses.

They seem like wonderful opportunities. But I must say, they are a bit expensive, especially for a foreign student. (I am Canadian.) Do you have any suggestions for similar courses- courses where I could build a strong portfolio in a short amount of time - that are available in Canada or are offered in the US or Europe and are cheaper?

Something like that - something where I could utterly immerse myself in architecture - would be ideal.

Also, is there any easy way to determine if I have an aptitude for architecture. I love aesthetics. And I like buildings. And I love writing. But I've never been someone who feels compelled to make art or design. 

_________

Thanks for contacting me, but I am not sure I can be of any assistance.  Each year, I compile a list of summer architecture programs available on http://www.archcareers.org.  Aside from the three options that you list, I would suggest you review the full list to see if there are any others - try Univ. of Washington.

Unfortunately, I am not familiar with any such programs in either Canada or other countries.  You may wish to contact architecture programs directly to determine if they have a program.

Aside from summer programs, you may wish to take a course (freehand drawing/art or design) at an university.  If one is not nearby, you can immerse yourself in the discipline by reading, sketching, and seeing architecture.  Granted, you will not have faculty instruction, but it is a start.

There is no test that can accurately determine if you are well-suited for architecture or not but I do believe it is an education that prepares you for a number of career fields that require creative problem solvers.

If possible, try to shadow an architect to learn more.

Dr. Architecture

Becoming an Architecture from High School

i am a high school student in Missouri.  I have always enjoyed drawing buildings and making stuff with my hands.  The more I read about architects the more I would wanted to become one, but I do not know exactly what I need to do to become one or what I need to take in high school.  If you could help me that would be great.  Thanks and have a great day 

____________

First, I will provide you with the basics of pursing architecture, but I will also provide you with resources on the process.

Basically, there are three tasks that you must complete to become an architect - 1) education (professional NAAB accredited degree - http://www.naab.org); 2) experience (completion of Intern Development Program (IDP) http://www.ncarb.org/en/Experience-Through-Internships.aspx); and examination (passing, the Architect Registration Examination (ARE) http://www.ncarb.org/en/ARE.aspx).  In a nutshell, that is the process of becoming an architect.

Now for resources --
ARCHCareers.org - a website dedicated to the process of becoming an architect; includes a list of summer programs that I would encourage you to pursue including the University of Illinois - http://www.arch.illinois.edu/programs/discoverarch/

Becoming an Architect: A Guide to Careers in Design - 2nd Edition - http://www.wiley.com/buy/9780470372104 - a book outlining the process of becoming an architect; includes interviews with over 50 students, interns, and architects.

Occupational Outlook Handbook - http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos038.htm - a resource providing details on the occupation of architect including employment projections.

ARCHCareers Blog - http://archcareers.blogspot.com/ - a blog dedicated to questions and answers that I receive.

This is a good start for you; as I do not want to overwhelm you, start with this material and write back when you have more questions.

Best.

Sense of Direction?

i am a big follower of your blog and i want to say thanks for giving aspiring architects a direct contact with you. My reasons behind writing you is because I am totally lost. I love architecture for its design sense and want to go in that direction only. What should my major be at school and do I have to go to a NAAB school to be successful? These questions may seem really remedial, but I know the field of architecture is very broad and I just want to head in the right direction. 

__________

You say that you love architecture, but do you wish to be an architect?  If so, I would advise you to pursue a NAAB accredited degree as it is necessary in almost all jurisdictions to become an architect.  With that said, you could pursue architecture as an undergraduate (BArch), graduate (BS + MArch) or graduate (BA + MArch).  The last route allows you to pursue any major as an undergraduate; select a major that you will enjoy and succeed.

Also, to help, visit the blog - http://archcareers.blogspot.com/ and search on topics of interest.

Another resource to help you is Becoming an Architect, 2nd Ed.

Best - Dr. Architecture

Learning about an Architecture Firm

I actually have about the same background and I live in the Washington, DC area as well.  In addition, I graduated from college in 2008 and I am now planning to return to school for a Masters in Architecture in Fall 2013.  I have one main concern.  I am now thinking about changing jobs from the defense industry to a clerical or low level job in architecture to get some general experience. Would you advise doing this? I noted that you recommended attending seminars, lectures and other events, however, you dissuaded the previous poster from pursuing work in architecture right now at entry level. Can you provide a more detailed reason for this? Thanks. 

______________

If you are currently employed, I would NOT support your changing positions to gain an entry level position with a firm.  First, you could probably better use your skills best with your current position.  Working in an architecture firm does not help you.  Instead, try to set-up an information interview with an architect or tour a firm.  Plus, your salary is better with your current position -- you can use the monies.

Finally, the job market in architecture is very tough right now.  It may be quite difficult to secure a position within a firm even entry level.

Yes, I think you should learn about working in a firm given you wish to become an architect, but you do not need to "work" in a firm to do that. 

Psychology to Architecture

Hello I am a psychology major and I am unsure of what exactly to do with it. But the real confusion lies in that I have no passion in psychology. I only chose it because i was told that having a major was better than none at all. I have a real passion for art in almost every form. That is why I think that architecture might be a better fit for me. You get to design beautiful buildings that will most likely live on for centuries if built well. But I am unsure as to what classes and the processes of becoming an architect. Can you please help me out?

___________

Congrats on your interest in architecture and becoming an architect.

To best learn how to become an architect, I suggest you obtain Becoming an Architect, 2nd Ed., published by Wiley.  You can obtain from Wiley or Amazon.com.  Another source is the website - ARCHCareers.org.

Also, I suggest you review the questions/answers on the following blog - http://archcareers.blogspot.com/ --.

You share that you are majoring in psychology, but do not indicate your academic year.  If you are close to graduating, finish your degree and pursue the Master of Architecture (3-4 years), a degree designed for those with a degree in other fields.  If you early in your college career, you could consider transferring.

Best on your new path and let me know how I can continue to help.

Next Step to Becoming an Architect

I would like to ask for your suggestion in my story and which direction I should head:

 

2001: I graduated with a BS in Architecture (pre-professional) from Univ of Michigan. I then immediately spent the next 8 years gaining tons of experience for IDP credit.

 

2005 and 2006: I started a Masters program in Arch and was enrolled part time with 12 credits total.

 

On and off the years I have been working with firms and did not complete a Masters as of yet due to personal issues and work.  After 2009 I stopped working with firms and started freelancing due to the economy, while keeping IDP active.  I am unemployed now and would by all means like to go back to school and finish my Masters.

 

But it is not financially feasible to go to school full time, perhaps yes to part time but in the state of Florida, of course you need to have a professional degree from a NAAB accredited school.

 

Any suggestions for a candidate wanting to start taking ARE exams but cannot until complete Masters but cannot afford due to economy!

 

(But still keep and actively pay renewal for IDP over the years since 2001)

__________

I will assume that you wish to still become an architect.

Given that you have the pre-professional BS in Architecture, you may wish to consider the Distance MArch at the Boston Architectural College (BAC) - http://www.the-bac.edu/education-programs/school-of-architecture/distance-master-of-architecture -

As I understand it, you visit Boston 6-8 days each semester and the rest is taught online from where you live and work.  Obviously, this may take a shift in your thinking, but worth a look.  LTU (Lawrence Technological University) also has a online MArch - http://www.ltu.edu/architecture_and_design/marchonline.asp -- Again, worth a look.

Another option is to pursue licensure in one of the few states that only requires a pre-professional degree but that would limit your options in other states that require an accredited degree.

Bottom line, you need to determine your obstacles -- finances, personal, work -- and find ways to persist and overcome them.  Also, try to avoid self-talk - "unemployed."  Do not define yourself by a government term.

Have the faith and best.