Hello Dr. Architecture,
I have always like architecture and seriously considered it as a career back in high school but ultimately went to college for Mechanical Engineering. Now I am looking for a change in my career and I am once again looking at architecture. My research shows that I should be able to get a Masters of Architecture degree in 3 to 4 years. Which would have me graduating and looking for an internship at age 42 or 43. Realistically how would my age compared to the twenty somethings graduating at the same time be viewed negatively by perspective employers? Am I too late in life in to be considering such a change?
_______
While it is true that most graduating students with a degree in architecture are of traditional age, there are a number of graduates that are older. Rather than seeing your age as a negative, think of your previous experience as a positive for prospective employers. Remember, you would have a degree in mech. engineering and architecture. Would not such a combination be an advantage for an employer.
Philip Johnson, one of the greatest architects of the 20th century, became an architect at age 39 and practiced architecture until his death in his nineties. Frank Gehry is currently practicing architecture and turned 80 this year. You have plenty of good years to practice architecture.
The question is your commitment for the field and situation in life. Can you commit to the education of an architect?
You are not too old! Start the process of researching programs through -- www.naab.org or www.archschools.org --.
Dr. Architecture
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Canadian Degree
Dear Dr. Architecture,
If I were to graduate from an accredited MArch program in Canada, would I be able to take my licensure exam and work within the U.S.?
Thanks!
_______
Below is a statement from the NCARB Handbook for Interms and Architects. As you can see, a degree from Canada (CACB accredited) will allow you to gain the NCARB Certificate but you will need to contact each state to check their requirements. You can access their requirements from the NCARB website -- www.ncarb.org --
In most cases, the answer should be YES.
You must hold a professional degree in architecture from a program accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) or the Canadian Architectural Certification Board (CACB) not later than two years after your graduation, or hold a professional degree in architecture, certified by the CACB, from a Canadian university.
Dr. Architecture
If I were to graduate from an accredited MArch program in Canada, would I be able to take my licensure exam and work within the U.S.?
Thanks!
_______
Below is a statement from the NCARB Handbook for Interms and Architects. As you can see, a degree from Canada (CACB accredited) will allow you to gain the NCARB Certificate but you will need to contact each state to check their requirements. You can access their requirements from the NCARB website -- www.ncarb.org --
In most cases, the answer should be YES.
You must hold a professional degree in architecture from a program accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) or the Canadian Architectural Certification Board (CACB) not later than two years after your graduation, or hold a professional degree in architecture, certified by the CACB, from a Canadian university.
Dr. Architecture
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Becoming an Intern
I am soon to be a junior in high school. As I was reading how to become an intern and the requirements to become one it said that the person would have to bring in resume and a portfolio of some of their work to show the interviewers. Does this apply to high school students as well? Just curious. Thank you!
______
It depends. If you are seeking an internship as defined by the profession -- a full-time employment opportunity, the answer would be YES. When seeking an internship, you are demonstrating your skills and abilities through the resume and portfolio to the potential employer.
However, for high school students seeking internships that may be during the summer, the answer could be NO; of course, I would think that these HS students should have a resume, but may not have a portfolio. These internships might be for the summer or only for a week or two. In these cases, a portfolio may not be required, but it could be helpful.
Writing a resume is not at all difficult, but does take time. At minimum, list out your high school, accomplishments, etc. It will be more difficult to do a portfolio, but you can start by collecting your drawings or creative work. Check out -- www.portfoliodesign.com to ideas.
A final word -- if you bring a resume and portfolio to a meeting with an employer, you will have an advantage over your classmates. Also, consider obtaining Becoming an Architect: A Guide to Careers in Design.
Dr. Architecture
______
It depends. If you are seeking an internship as defined by the profession -- a full-time employment opportunity, the answer would be YES. When seeking an internship, you are demonstrating your skills and abilities through the resume and portfolio to the potential employer.
However, for high school students seeking internships that may be during the summer, the answer could be NO; of course, I would think that these HS students should have a resume, but may not have a portfolio. These internships might be for the summer or only for a week or two. In these cases, a portfolio may not be required, but it could be helpful.
Writing a resume is not at all difficult, but does take time. At minimum, list out your high school, accomplishments, etc. It will be more difficult to do a portfolio, but you can start by collecting your drawings or creative work. Check out -- www.portfoliodesign.com to ideas.
A final word -- if you bring a resume and portfolio to a meeting with an employer, you will have an advantage over your classmates. Also, consider obtaining Becoming an Architect: A Guide to Careers in Design.
Dr. Architecture
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Cost of Higher Education
With the price of college these days, what are the positives and negatives of going to a local State college (that does not offer architecture as a major, but does offer art) for two years to get some core classes out of the way (and saving money) and then finishing the final years at an architecture school? My daughter is finishing up her Junior year in High School and the reality of college tuition is getting scary!!! Thank you.
_______
You suggestion is certainly a probable one but I wonder if there is a public institution in your state that does have an architecture program. Visit -- www.naab.org -- and -- www.archschools.org -- for a list of accredited architecture programs.
The positives of attending the local state college are certainly lower cost but the transfer of credits may be a negative that overrides the decision. You truly have to think through to the architecture program to which your daughter will transfer to ensure that she takes the correct courses for transfer. As well, the degree program to which this will probably works best is the pre-professional Bachelor of Science (or similar) and the accredited Master of Architecture. You can make this certainly happen but you will want to truly plan the first two years carefully to ensure admission to an architecture as a junior.
Obviously, if she lived at home, your family could save additional monies, but sometimes the experience of college if more than just academics.
To become an architect, you need an accredited degree. Aside from the idea listed above, another option would be to complete a degree (in art or another discipline) as an undergraduate saving more monies and attend the graduate accredited Master of Architecture (3-4 years). Sure, it postpones the true study of architecture until graduate studies, but it probably saves more monies. Plus, there is typically more financial aid at the graduate level.
Also, you should still consider attending architecture school directly from high school even if you have to go out-of-state as are not considered for financial aid (merit or need) unless you apply. I worked for IIT (Chicago); we had one full-tuition scholarship for the full five year BArch. One year, I was able to convince a student who would have never considered IIT because of the scholarship. She applied, was admitted and won the scholarship. Where do you think she attended. Remember, more than 50% of college students receive financial aid.
Dr. Architecture
_______
You suggestion is certainly a probable one but I wonder if there is a public institution in your state that does have an architecture program. Visit -- www.naab.org -- and -- www.archschools.org -- for a list of accredited architecture programs.
The positives of attending the local state college are certainly lower cost but the transfer of credits may be a negative that overrides the decision. You truly have to think through to the architecture program to which your daughter will transfer to ensure that she takes the correct courses for transfer. As well, the degree program to which this will probably works best is the pre-professional Bachelor of Science (or similar) and the accredited Master of Architecture. You can make this certainly happen but you will want to truly plan the first two years carefully to ensure admission to an architecture as a junior.
Obviously, if she lived at home, your family could save additional monies, but sometimes the experience of college if more than just academics.
To become an architect, you need an accredited degree. Aside from the idea listed above, another option would be to complete a degree (in art or another discipline) as an undergraduate saving more monies and attend the graduate accredited Master of Architecture (3-4 years). Sure, it postpones the true study of architecture until graduate studies, but it probably saves more monies. Plus, there is typically more financial aid at the graduate level.
Also, you should still consider attending architecture school directly from high school even if you have to go out-of-state as are not considered for financial aid (merit or need) unless you apply. I worked for IIT (Chicago); we had one full-tuition scholarship for the full five year BArch. One year, I was able to convince a student who would have never considered IIT because of the scholarship. She applied, was admitted and won the scholarship. Where do you think she attended. Remember, more than 50% of college students receive financial aid.
Dr. Architecture
Monday, June 1, 2009
Artistic Ability
I am a member of the class of 2010 at my school, and am interested in looking at architecture when I apply to college in the fall, and I had an important question.
As a student, I have excelled in almost all fields. It is my understanding that an architect would need to excel in mathematics, speech and English, and art. While I do extremely well in both math and English, a major problem for me is art. I have never been much of an artist at all, and I have never had the opportunity to take any art classes at my school (it's an old fashioned college prep school, that doesn't really offer art). I feel that I am fairly proficient at drawing diagrams and graphs, or anything else that I would need for math class (trigonometry, geometry, or calculus), but I see myself as an absolutely horrible creative or "picture" drawing type.
In short, I am not artistically gifted in any way. BUT I do have an interest and architecture, and feel that any architecture diagrams or drawings I have seen are "different" then what a person would normally think of as art. It is my understanding that they usually involve straight lines, careful measurements, and extreme attention to detail. I think that even with my lack of artistic ability, these would be conquerable obstacles, but I'm really not sure. Like I said, I think I am good at mechanical drawing, but as far as "creative" drawing, I am a complete failure. This is not to say that I don't have a creative mind, but if I was asked to draw a nature scene or anything like that, I would fall flat on my face.
So I guess the question overall is, would I be able to pursue a career in architecture, even with my lack of artistic abilities?
____________
Your self-description sounds much like me when I was graduating from high school. I excelled in mathematics and science but had not artistic abilities. Unlike you, I did have access to art courses but still did not feel I was any good.
Bottom line, you can still become an architect and should strongly consider architecture as a major to choose for college.
As you have determined, architecture is both a science and an art, but you do not necessarily excel in both. I often counsel prospective students that it takes three attributes to pursue architecture in college -- 1) intelligence, which is not necessarily a perfect 4.00 GPA, 2) creativity, which does not mean you can draw like an angel, and 3) commitment because the major is demanding. The best part of this is that you only truly need two of the three to succeed. Your strong interest in the subject can be a great asset.
With that said, it does not mean that you do not use or need artistic talent because you do. In fact, you will take freehand drawing courses. Do not think that it is all done on the computer as the computer screen is just a fancy blank piece of paper. Although, your high school does not offer art courses, teach drawing to your self. Purchase a sketchbook and just draw items in your household for 20-30 minutes per day. One reason you do not have drawing abilities is that you have not developed those skills. Also, approach your school or a teacher that can support your desire to draw. Try to avoid CAD or mechanical drafting because that is not architecture.
Trust me, you are not a failure when it comes to creativity. You simply need to develop those creative skills. Take time this summer to break out of your comfort zone and draw. Do not be self-critical of your work as it does take time. Learn to draw what you can see with your eyes as it is a skill you need to draw what you cannot see, i.e., what is in your mind -- your ideas.
Depending on where you live, try to find an architect that can mentor you and introduce you to the profession. I did a senior project where I worked in an office two afternoons a week.
This discussion can also dictate that institution that you may select as architecture programs are varied. Research programs through -- www.naab.org or -- www.archschools.org --. Consider obtaining Becoming an Architect: A Candid Guide to Careers in Design to help in your search.
Dr. Architecture
As a student, I have excelled in almost all fields. It is my understanding that an architect would need to excel in mathematics, speech and English, and art. While I do extremely well in both math and English, a major problem for me is art. I have never been much of an artist at all, and I have never had the opportunity to take any art classes at my school (it's an old fashioned college prep school, that doesn't really offer art). I feel that I am fairly proficient at drawing diagrams and graphs, or anything else that I would need for math class (trigonometry, geometry, or calculus), but I see myself as an absolutely horrible creative or "picture" drawing type.
In short, I am not artistically gifted in any way. BUT I do have an interest and architecture, and feel that any architecture diagrams or drawings I have seen are "different" then what a person would normally think of as art. It is my understanding that they usually involve straight lines, careful measurements, and extreme attention to detail. I think that even with my lack of artistic ability, these would be conquerable obstacles, but I'm really not sure. Like I said, I think I am good at mechanical drawing, but as far as "creative" drawing, I am a complete failure. This is not to say that I don't have a creative mind, but if I was asked to draw a nature scene or anything like that, I would fall flat on my face.
So I guess the question overall is, would I be able to pursue a career in architecture, even with my lack of artistic abilities?
____________
Your self-description sounds much like me when I was graduating from high school. I excelled in mathematics and science but had not artistic abilities. Unlike you, I did have access to art courses but still did not feel I was any good.
Bottom line, you can still become an architect and should strongly consider architecture as a major to choose for college.
As you have determined, architecture is both a science and an art, but you do not necessarily excel in both. I often counsel prospective students that it takes three attributes to pursue architecture in college -- 1) intelligence, which is not necessarily a perfect 4.00 GPA, 2) creativity, which does not mean you can draw like an angel, and 3) commitment because the major is demanding. The best part of this is that you only truly need two of the three to succeed. Your strong interest in the subject can be a great asset.
With that said, it does not mean that you do not use or need artistic talent because you do. In fact, you will take freehand drawing courses. Do not think that it is all done on the computer as the computer screen is just a fancy blank piece of paper. Although, your high school does not offer art courses, teach drawing to your self. Purchase a sketchbook and just draw items in your household for 20-30 minutes per day. One reason you do not have drawing abilities is that you have not developed those skills. Also, approach your school or a teacher that can support your desire to draw. Try to avoid CAD or mechanical drafting because that is not architecture.
Trust me, you are not a failure when it comes to creativity. You simply need to develop those creative skills. Take time this summer to break out of your comfort zone and draw. Do not be self-critical of your work as it does take time. Learn to draw what you can see with your eyes as it is a skill you need to draw what you cannot see, i.e., what is in your mind -- your ideas.
Depending on where you live, try to find an architect that can mentor you and introduce you to the profession. I did a senior project where I worked in an office two afternoons a week.
This discussion can also dictate that institution that you may select as architecture programs are varied. Research programs through -- www.naab.org or -- www.archschools.org --. Consider obtaining Becoming an Architect: A Candid Guide to Careers in Design to help in your search.
Dr. Architecture
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Portfolio Contents
I do not have a portfolio - any resources you can suggest on how to build an effective, compelling portfolio, if you're starting from scratch, what elements it needs to contain, how deep it needs to be? My creative outlets are typically writing and drawing (badly!) for myself, and I'm admittedly intimidated by the idea of putting together a winning creative dossier.
I am looking at applying to school for fall '11, so I have plenty of time.
_______
As to what to put in your portfolio, contact the schools. If your undergraduate degree is something other than architecture, what is inside does NOT have to be architecture. You want a balance of creative work so an admissions committee can see how you think and create. This could include freehand drawing, painting, three-dimensional work that is photographed, photography, etc.
If you truly feel intimidated, try to look at other people's portfolios. As you visit programs, be in touch with the current students and ask to view their portfolio. However, do not be swayed -- just use it to gain ideas.
Dr. Architecture
_______
With that much time, I would suggest you take some freehand drawing courses; this will improve your ability and provide materials for a portfolio. In addition, purchase a sketchbook, carry it with you at all times and draw no less than 30 minutes per day. Part of drawing is making it a habit. While waiting, draw something you see for 30 seconds, 2 minutes, 5 minutes. It does not matter what the subject is.
As for resources for portfolio, the best is Portfolio Design by Harold Linton. It is also a website -- www.portfoliodesign.com -- It teaches you the basics of layout and the importance of balance between graphic and white space. If you do not have the talent, learn Photoshop and InDesign as it will make doing a portfolio that much easier.
As to what to put in your portfolio, contact the schools. If your undergraduate degree is something other than architecture, what is inside does NOT have to be architecture. You want a balance of creative work so an admissions committee can see how you think and create. This could include freehand drawing, painting, three-dimensional work that is photographed, photography, etc.
If you truly feel intimidated, try to look at other people's portfolios. As you visit programs, be in touch with the current students and ask to view their portfolio. However, do not be swayed -- just use it to gain ideas.
Dr. Architecture
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Becoming an Architect - International Degree
I moved newly to USA-TX by the international organization for migration. I have B.Sc. in architecture and M.Sc. in urban planning from Baghdad university in Iraq. How can I qualify my transcripts and an authorization to work as an architect? Please can I get some information about the procedure. I found many wbsites and I do not know from where to start.
___________
If your desire is to become a licensed architect in the United States, you must contact NCARB -- www.ncarb.org -- In particular, you will want to visit the following link of which the text is listed below:
http://www.ncarb.org/reciprocity/foreign.html
There is no reciprocal registration between foreign countries and the U.S. (with the exception of Canada). You cannot practice architecture in a U.S. jurisdiction without acquiring a license to practice in that jurisdiction. Each of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands has an architectural registration board which regulates the profession in their jurisdiction.
To become a registered architect in a U.S. jurisdiction, you must first comply with that jurisdiction’s education, training and examination requirements. Recognize that not all jurisdictions have adopted NCARB's education and training standards. All questions regarding your eligibility must be directed to your jurisdiction’s registration board. For the contact information for each board, see jurisdictional board.
Education
Many registration boards require applicants to have a professional degree from a program accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). Foreign-educated individuals, who do not hold such a degree, may be directed to have all of their post-secondary education evaluated by NAAB. NAAB performs the Education Evaluation Services for Architects (EESA). Applications for the "EESA-NCARB" evaluation must be requested from:
National Architectural Accrediting Board Inc. (NAAB)
1735 New York Avenue, NW, 3rd Floor
Washington, DC 20006
(202) 783-2007
www.eesa-naab.org
Fees for this service will be billed to you directly by NAAB which is a private organization, not affiliated with any architectural registration board
Training
Most NCARB member boards have adopted the training requirements established for the Intern Development Program (IDP). In the IDP, training is measured in training units; one training unit equals 8 hours of acceptable experience. To satisfy the IDP requirements you must earn a total of at least 700 training units, with prescribed subtotals in various training areas. The maximum credit allowed for foreign experience in architecture is 235 training units if under the supervision of an architect not registered in the U.S. or Canada.
Five years of full-time, verified foreign experience as a principal in an organization whose architectural practice encompasses the comprehensive practice of architecture is an alternative to the IDP Training Requirement, which may be recognized by the jurisdiction(s) where you seek registration.
Examination
Every NCARB member board requires interns to pass NCARB's Architect Registration Examination (ARE). Those who practice architecture outside of the U.S. Or Canada must also pass the ARE to qualify for registration in the U.S. For further information, see ARE.
If you have any questions, please contact NCARB Customer Service.
___________
If your desire is to become a licensed architect in the United States, you must contact NCARB -- www.ncarb.org -- In particular, you will want to visit the following link of which the text is listed below:
http://www.ncarb.org/reciprocity/foreign.html
There is no reciprocal registration between foreign countries and the U.S. (with the exception of Canada). You cannot practice architecture in a U.S. jurisdiction without acquiring a license to practice in that jurisdiction. Each of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands has an architectural registration board which regulates the profession in their jurisdiction.
To become a registered architect in a U.S. jurisdiction, you must first comply with that jurisdiction’s education, training and examination requirements. Recognize that not all jurisdictions have adopted NCARB's education and training standards. All questions regarding your eligibility must be directed to your jurisdiction’s registration board. For the contact information for each board, see jurisdictional board.
Education
Many registration boards require applicants to have a professional degree from a program accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). Foreign-educated individuals, who do not hold such a degree, may be directed to have all of their post-secondary education evaluated by NAAB. NAAB performs the Education Evaluation Services for Architects (EESA). Applications for the "EESA-NCARB" evaluation must be requested from:
National Architectural Accrediting Board Inc. (NAAB)
1735 New York Avenue, NW, 3rd Floor
Washington, DC 20006
(202) 783-2007
www.eesa-naab.org
Fees for this service will be billed to you directly by NAAB which is a private organization, not affiliated with any architectural registration board
Training
Most NCARB member boards have adopted the training requirements established for the Intern Development Program (IDP). In the IDP, training is measured in training units; one training unit equals 8 hours of acceptable experience. To satisfy the IDP requirements you must earn a total of at least 700 training units, with prescribed subtotals in various training areas. The maximum credit allowed for foreign experience in architecture is 235 training units if under the supervision of an architect not registered in the U.S. or Canada.
Five years of full-time, verified foreign experience as a principal in an organization whose architectural practice encompasses the comprehensive practice of architecture is an alternative to the IDP Training Requirement, which may be recognized by the jurisdiction(s) where you seek registration.
Examination
Every NCARB member board requires interns to pass NCARB's Architect Registration Examination (ARE). Those who practice architecture outside of the U.S. Or Canada must also pass the ARE to qualify for registration in the U.S. For further information, see ARE.
If you have any questions, please contact NCARB Customer Service.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Philosophy and Approach
I am exploring MArch programs. On a number of web sites that discuss how to assess program fit I have seen the suggestion to pay attention to a school's philosophy or approach to architectural thought. But - somewhat cryptically - I haven't been able to find a breakdown of what the various key philosophies and approaches are, pros and cons of each, and how to identify or look for them when reading through a school's program description or website.
I'm wondering if you might help: are there in fact different schools of thought on how to approach architectural education, training and process? Do these show up in program curricula? How does one identify what approach a program takes and the pros and cons of being schooled in each different approach - both creatively and from a career perspective? Are there certain schools that are known for using specific approaches (i.e., in MBA programs, Harvard is uniquely known for using the case method - any parallels in the world of architecture?)?
____________
As a prospective architecture student, you bring up good questions and I applaud your researching these aspects of an architectural education and using them as criteria to select your program. Unfortunately, the only true way to research a program's philosophy is to ask -- via a phone call to the program director or other key administrator. Of course, you may learn some of what you are seeking from the program's website, but it probably takes a conversation. Below are resources on architectural education and the architectural programs.
https://www.acsa-arch.org/students/studentsguide.aspx
http://www.archschools.org
Although all architecture programs must meet the NAAB criteria, programs are different. NAAB tells programs what to teach but not how to teach. For this reason, programs teach architecture differently. Their differences come from their institutional context -- what academic unit are they located, the degrees they offer, their physical location (urban vs. rural), faculty, tradition, etc. As you will discover, some programs emphasize the theory of architecture, others emphasize the technical side. You have to determine which is the best fit for you. Your best approach is to talk with lots of people in the profession -- architects, students, faculty, others. Bottom line, just be sure that the program you enter is accredited and you will be able to eventually sit for the ARE - Architect Registration Exam. What you want in a program is truly up to you. What makes you most comfortable?
Dr. Architecture
I'm wondering if you might help: are there in fact different schools of thought on how to approach architectural education, training and process? Do these show up in program curricula? How does one identify what approach a program takes and the pros and cons of being schooled in each different approach - both creatively and from a career perspective? Are there certain schools that are known for using specific approaches (i.e., in MBA programs, Harvard is uniquely known for using the case method - any parallels in the world of architecture?)?
____________
As a prospective architecture student, you bring up good questions and I applaud your researching these aspects of an architectural education and using them as criteria to select your program. Unfortunately, the only true way to research a program's philosophy is to ask -- via a phone call to the program director or other key administrator. Of course, you may learn some of what you are seeking from the program's website, but it probably takes a conversation. Below are resources on architectural education and the architectural programs.
https://www.acsa-arch.org/students/studentsguide.aspx
http://www.archschools.org
Although all architecture programs must meet the NAAB criteria, programs are different. NAAB tells programs what to teach but not how to teach. For this reason, programs teach architecture differently. Their differences come from their institutional context -- what academic unit are they located, the degrees they offer, their physical location (urban vs. rural), faculty, tradition, etc. As you will discover, some programs emphasize the theory of architecture, others emphasize the technical side. You have to determine which is the best fit for you. Your best approach is to talk with lots of people in the profession -- architects, students, faculty, others. Bottom line, just be sure that the program you enter is accredited and you will be able to eventually sit for the ARE - Architect Registration Exam. What you want in a program is truly up to you. What makes you most comfortable?
Dr. Architecture
Monday, May 25, 2009
Architecture vs. Interior Design; M.Arch. vs. B. Arch.
I have a BS in nursing and I'm considering going back to school to study architecture or interior design. I've been studying decorating magazines and drawing house plans since I was little, and I've been debating which major I should choose. I didn't pursue either one the first time around because I was unable to attend a university where the programs were offered. Frankly, I didn't think I'd be very good at it since I'm not a very good artist. But I'm older now and I've spent 20 yrs. in hospitals. I'm tired out, stressed out, and burned out. I'm kind of nervous but, good or bad, I'm ready to try something new.
I think an architecture degree would be more versatile than a degree in interior design. From what I've read, architects can specialize in interior design if they want to. Assuming I enroll in an architecture program, I have 2 questions. First, I would be attending LSU which offers a 5 yr. B.Arch. program and a 3 yr. professional M.Arch. The M.Arch. would be the logical choice for me. But I've read some comments from students online stating that a B.Arch. program teaches more "fundamentals" than a M.Arch. Is this accurate? The B.Arch. curriculum includes 5 yrs. of design courses and the M.Arch. includes only 3. Is there something missing from the master's program or is it the same material taught in a shorter period of time? Would I gain anything by taking the longer program? How would each degree affect my future salary?
Second, how can an architect specialize in interiors without the training in color, furniture, and fabrics, etc. that an ID program provides? I wish I could do both. Would it be possible to have a double major in these 2 fields?
I know this sounds like nitpicking, but I just want to make sure I have all the facts straight so I know what I'm getting into.
I plan to take physics and another drawing course ahead of time. Any other advice or suggestions would be much appreciated.
_____________
You basically have asked two questions -- architecture vs. interior design and if architecture, M.Arch. vs. B.Arch.
With respect to architecture vs. interior design, you are correct in that architecture is more versatile than interior design. I have often told many architecture students that architects can do interior design but interior designers cannot do architecture. With that said, you must decide which is best for you.
Resources to review are the following:
Becoming an Architect: A Guide to Careers in Design
Becoming an Interior Designer: A Guide to Careers in Design
www.archcareers.org
www.careersininteriordesign.com
Your question about how architects can do interior design without training -- typically, it is through experience and working for a firm that specializes in interiors. Certainly, you could attend an architecture program at an institution that also has an interior design program. You could probably do a double degree, but you may learn as much through experience.
Ultimately, you must connect what you want and pursue it will full vigor.
As for the M.Arch. vs. B.Arch, you should pursue the M.Arch. (3-4 years) as it is designed for individuals who already have an undergraduate degree such as nursing. You will wish to verify that both degrees are accredited by NAAB -- www.naab.org --. You are correct in that most B.Arch. may have more design studios than a M.Arch, but more is not always better. The M.Arch. will be a sound program for you. Given that your commitment, the M.Arch. will serve you well.
As to salary, typically individuals with a M.Arch. are paid more.
You are smart to take physics and drawing. Begin the research process so you can apply for Fall 2010. Start the portfolio that will be required -- www.portfoliodesign.com -- Talk with architects and interior designers to gain perspective.
Finally, you may be burned out on nursing, but strongly consider a career in heathcare architecture, one of the largest industries within architecture. Given your experience, you would be valuable to employers.
Dr. Architecture
_____________
You basically have asked two questions -- architecture vs. interior design and if architecture, M.Arch. vs. B.Arch.
With respect to architecture vs. interior design, you are correct in that architecture is more versatile than interior design. I have often told many architecture students that architects can do interior design but interior designers cannot do architecture. With that said, you must decide which is best for you.
Resources to review are the following:
Becoming an Architect: A Guide to Careers in Design
Becoming an Interior Designer: A Guide to Careers in Design
www.archcareers.org
www.careersininteriordesign.
Your question about how architects can do interior design without training -- typically, it is through experience and working for a firm that specializes in interiors. Certainly, you could attend an architecture program at an institution that also has an interior design program. You could probably do a double degree, but you may learn as much through experience.
Ultimately, you must connect what you want and pursue it will full vigor.
As for the M.Arch. vs. B.Arch, you should pursue the M.Arch. (3-4 years) as it is designed for individuals who already have an undergraduate degree such as nursing. You will wish to verify that both degrees are accredited by NAAB -- www.naab.org --. You are correct in that most B.Arch. may have more design studios than a M.Arch, but more is not always better. The M.Arch. will be a sound program for you. Given that your commitment, the M.Arch. will serve you well.
As to salary, typically individuals with a M.Arch. are paid more.
You are smart to take physics and drawing. Begin the research process so you can apply for Fall 2010. Start the portfolio that will be required -- www.portfoliodesign.com -- Talk with architects and interior designers to gain perspective.
Finally, you may be burned out on nursing, but strongly consider a career in heathcare architecture, one of the largest industries within architecture. Given your experience, you would be valuable to employers.
Dr. Architecture
Friday, May 22, 2009
Becoming an Architect
I am 37 and a resident of California. I have an undergrad degree in Liberal Studies. I'd like to pursue a career in architecture. Do I have to get a degree in architecture or can I start as an intern and work my way up and eventually get certified? What would be your recommended course of action? I'd like to avoid school if possible.
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In general terms, it is very difficult to become a licensed architect without first obtaining a NAAB accredited degree in architecture (www.naab.org). However, very few states will allow an individual to become registered with either a preprofessional degree in architecture or a high school diploma, but the experience required would be increased.
As it turns out, California is one of those states. With only a high school diploma, a candidate would need 8 years of acceptable experience. For more details, contact the state board in California or the following:
While it is possible for you to pursue licensure without any additional schooling in California, I would NOT recommend it. First, you will find it extremely difficult to secure an intern position with no background in architecture. Next, as most states and NCARB require a NAAB degree for licensure, you will be limited to practice only in California.
I recognize that you wish to avoid school, but architecture is a very technical field. As such, you have much to learn both in the classroom and working within a firm.
Dr. Architecture
Dr. Architecture
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