Art History to Architecture

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Firstly, I just wanted to say that I am a huge fan of your blog. That said, I have a question about preparation for graduate school. I am currently a junior at UC Santa Barbara and I'm majoring in art history with an emphasis in architectural history. The program is not accredited so I will need to pursue a M.ARCH when I graduate. Besides maintaing a high GPA, what are some things that I can do in these next two years to help me prepare for admission to a graduate school? I want to go to a top architecture school so I would like to get a head start on whatever it is that you recommend.

__________

Thanks for being a fan! Also, congratulations on your desire to pursue architecture.

First, the program you are attending is not an architecture program and could not be accredited. With that said, you will wish to pursue a MArch (3-4 years) for those with a degree in a discipline other than architecture like your art history degree.

In addition to stellar academic performance, take courses in art/freehand drawing to create work for your portfolio. Also, connect with some faculty who will write your letters of recommendation. Finally, begin to research programs via the following:

NAAB - www.naab.org
ARCHSchools - www.archschools.org

To the extent possible, visit an architecture program to learn more about the process of applying and the curriculum of a MArch. There is not one directly nearby to Santa Barbara, but perhaps visit LA to visit USC, UCLA, or SCI-ARC.

Dr. Architecture

Architecture and Beyond - Series of Three Articles

Architecture and Beyond

In less than a week, I have posted the following three articles to my Becoming an Architect Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/ARCHCareers/]. 

All three highlight the power of an architectural education; they highlight the myriad of career paths one can pursue after an architectural degree.

Delicious by Design

https://news.virginia.edu/content/i-scream-you-scream-ice-cream-powers-alumnas-culinary-start

This article in the UVA News highlights Stephanie Connock, an architectural graduate and her entry into the culinary arts.

“In Architecture, you have to stand up and present your ideas in front of a lot of people at once and then let them critique you,” she said. “Having that experience has definitely made me more comfortable talking with people and trying to get them interested in my products.”

Guide to Alternatives to Architectural Practice

http://architizer.com/blog/young-architects-guide-alternatives-to-architectural-practice/

In contrast, this article in Architizer highlights six different career paths - 1) Film, Video and Animation, 2) Tech and Web Design, 3) Fashion, 4) Jewelry, 5) Interdisciplinary Research, and 6 Ice Cream.

#6 Ice Cream has a parallel with the UVA article.

Architechies

https://medium.com/@blakehudelson/architechies-4e061e235de1#.j52qelqsm

This last article is a summary of a panel discussion of previous architects as they transitioned into careers in technology.

All three are worth reading regardless of your career path as you see the power of design.

Dr. Architecture

 

Art History to Architecture

My daughter just graduated from UC Berkeley with a major in art history.  She has always been attracted by the field of architecture and is now contemplating a career in architecture. She took an introductory class this summer and loved it. Spent a lot of time in the studio!   

With your experience, what are her chances to be accepted in an M Arch program, given her background in art history?   

Any advice?

Thank you very much!  

__________________

Ultimately, her chances of admission to a Master of Architecture will depend on your credentials - i.e., GPA, GRE scores (if required), portfolio, letters of recommendation, and personal statement.  In many respects, her admission will NOT be dependent on her actual undergraduate major.

Most, if not all of the architecture graduate programs fully expect candidates to apply for a myriad of academic backgrounds -- English, engineering, fine arts, etc.  The programs assume an interest and desire to pursue architecture - the question is if they have the potential.

Given UC-Berkeley has an architecture program, contact them for initial advice on applying.  Have her talk/shadow an architect to learn more about the profession.

As well, consider obtaining the book - Becoming an Architect, 3rd Edition.

Becoming an Architect: A Guide to Careers in Design - 3rd Edition

http://www.wiley.com/WileyCDA/WileyTitle/productCd-1118612132.html

Best and feel free to have her contact me with additional questions.

Psychology to Architecture

I have recently been considering going back to school for architecture but do not have any background in the field, so I was looking for some information on what the path would entail. I have a B.A. in psychology from a top US university and have been working in biomedical research for the past two years. Where would I start in terms of schooling to become an architect?

Thank you for your help.

___________

Given you have a degree albeit in another discipline, you may pursue the Master of Architecture (3-4 years).  If you wish to research potential programs, visit - http://www.naab.org and/or http://archschools.org.  Both will provide you with a list of institutions that offer the Master of Architecture.

As well, a group of schools in Illinois host the Chicago Architecture + Design College Day - Saturday, October 18, 2014 -http://www.chicagocareerday.org --

A good place to start is obtaining a copy of Becoming an Architect, 3rd ed. published by Wiley.

Becoming an Architect: A Guide to Careers in Design - 3rd Edition
http://www.wiley.com/WileyCDA/WileyTitle/productCd-1118612132.html

As you research programs for F15, note that some may require you to take Calculus and/or Physics.  As well, you will need to submit a portfolio with your application.  Start drawing or consider taking a drawing course.

If possible, shadow an architect; contact the local chapter of AIA American Institute of Architects.

Keep in touch in your path.

Best

@DocArchitecture

Accounting to Architecture

I am currently an undergrad accounting major at Temple University and will be graduating this spring. I stumbled upon your ARCHCareers blog after searching "master of architecture for non architects." 

While I've been on winter break, I've been thinking about my plans after graduation and what career or further education I want to pursue. While I enjoy accountancy, I have this nagging thought about not opening up and challenging myself to a discipline that I find more interesting and fulfilling. I originally planned to major in civil engineering and definitely thought about architecture as well, but I never gave myself a chance and went with accounting.

I saw on this post of yours that MArch programs accept applications from people who have an undergrad degree in another discipline. I have never taken any undergrad or high school architecture class and I don't have a portfolio. Ultimately, I have a few questions about all of this:

• If I am seriously interesting in an MArch degree, where should I start?
• Am I in over my head? Have you heard/seen similar stories of non-architects pursuing architecture this late?
• How did you know architecture was the right career for you?
• Is coming from an undergrad business background beneficial in pursuing an MArch degree?

Thank you so much for reading this email. I truly appreciate the time you've given me to read and respond to my inquiries and curiosity during my period of uncertainty. I hope to hear from you soon and have a safe and happy new year! Take care.

Best,

____________

Congrats on finding my blog on becoming an architect.  Below are some thoughts to get you started should you decide to pursue it further.

Where to start - As you are attending Temple, start by visiting the architecture program on your own campus.  Formally meet with faculty and students -- shadow some classes and consider taking a drawing course to start.  You also live in Philly, a great city for architecture -- get outside (when warmer) and look at the architecture.  Consider attending a summer program to jumpstart your interest.

Head - You are now over your head.  In fact, more and more students are like you - starting college in another major and discovering architecture.  You are not late.  Philip Johnson, one of the most famous 20th c. architects did not become one until the age of 39.

Right Career - You may never know for sure, but it is more than a job - it is a career and lifestyle.  That is why you should talk with current students at Temple -- visit Penn.

Business Background - It can be, but ultimately, the portfolio and your academics are probably most beneficial.

Consider obtaining the book, Becoming an Architect, 2nd Ed.

Best.  Do contact me with further questions.

Architect to What?

I have enjoyed reading your blog over the years. I am wondering if you can help with my career predicament. What can I do with a B.Arch degree besides 'straight' architecture -- what graduate programs or careers would I be fit to undertake? Can you help with ideas?

Here is my background. I became a licensed architect in California. I graduated from Cal Poly SLO and then worked at a school design firm, then a residential firm. During my time at the school firm, I initially drafted CDs, and then later became a Project Manager doing construction admin work. I excelled at the management side of things, but felt I wasn't doing anything artistic. I turned to graphic design and web design as a career and left the profession. I have since been working in web design, but sometimes feel I am selling myself short in terms of the broad knowledge base I acquired through my architectural training (math, engineering, environmental control systems, design). I love learning and would like to do more academics if possible, but feel I need to be committed to a particular career/job title end goal. I have not worked in an architecture office for seven years, so feel like it is an impossibility to go back.

I appreciate any advice you may have -- if you have time! I realize you likely get many inquires. :-)

_____________

I am very pleased that you have enjoyed the blog for the past few years.

I appreciate your question as I have been spending time writing on the issue.  Below are a few articles that I have authored on the topic on what I call Architecture and Beyond.

All I can suggest is that you pursue your passion.  As you have discovered, an architectural education is a tremendous foundation for any number of career fields.  Of course, it is not easy to determine the best path.

Spend time assessing what you like -- interests, skills, etc.  Make the match between what you like and what is out there in terms of employment -- What is your timeline?

Keep searching and pursue it with a passion.  It will be hard to get back into architecture, but if you want it, go for it.

http://www.architectsuccess.com/2012/04/01/architecture-and-beyond-opportunities-abound-by-lee-w-waldrep-ph-d/

http://dhbusinessledger.com/main.asp?SectionID=35&subsectionID=101&articleID=8361

Best.

Sales Analyst to Architecture

Dr. Architecture,

After perusing the website, I saw a plethora of information regarding a career in architecture following the traditional route (ie, receiving a bachelors in ARCH and proceeding from there). How would one transition careers if they did not study ARCH as an undergraduate? 

I am currently a sales analyst who majored in finance and supply chain as an undergraduate and am looking a for a career change. I would appreciate guidance to some sources you are aware of that may aid me in such a transition.

____________

If you have an undergraduate degree in any discipline you can apply to the Master of Architecture (3-4 years).  About 50-60 architecture programs in the U.S. have the Master of Architecture for those with a degree in another discipline.

For a list of accredited programs, visit http://www.naab.org --

Be aware that you will need to submit a portfolio as part of your admission application.  If you have no creative work, you may wish to take a drawing / art course to develop your skills.

Best.

Chemical Engineering to Architecture

Dear Dr. Architecture,

I am a student from Saudi Arabia, I have just finished my bachelors degree in Chemical Engineering with first honors (3.8/4 CGPA).

I have always wanted to study architecture and become an architect, and so I've been looking and reading about the professional masters in architecture programs available in the US.

I have a couple of questions that I would greatly appreciate your help with.

• Q1) Regarding the Portfolio, I'm wondering what to include in it. Is it okay if it is a mix of drawings and photographs for example? I'm asking this since I'm coming from an engineering background. I would greatly appreciate if you would mention some examples of portfolios that you found to be well done.

• Q2) While I see myself as a very creative person, I admit that I have no background in drawing buildings. Will the professional masters program provide me with some education (i.e drawing techniques/courses) on this matter? or is it taken that anyone going into architecture should have such background.

• Q3) I'm a young graduate, turning 23 years old this August. What is the average age of people admitted in such programs, based on your experience.

• Q4) Since this is a major career change, I would like to know, based on your experience, the main things that would change with this move from chemical engineering to architecture. (For example, I know that architects usually get paid less than engineers, and I accept that fact with the thought that I will be making a name for my self in the architecture business, thus working on mega projects and getting paid more.)

I have a lot of other questions, but I won't like to swarm you with all of them.  I will be reading your book soon enough, as it looks as a valuable resource in this matter.

Lastly, I thank you in advance for helping people interested in architecture, and apologize about the length of this email.

Best regards,

_________________

Answers to your questions --

1) First and foremost, always inquire with the programs to which you are applying as what to include.  Typically, they wish to see creativity through drawing, art, etc.  You may certainly including photography, but do not let that be the only medium.  I would suggest the website -- www.portfoliodesign.com -- for ideas on your portfolio.  Also, you can see examples at issuu.com.

2) As your background is not in architecture, a graduate program will certainly provide instruction in drawing and the basics of architecture, but I would encourage you to take an additional course prior to beginning.  Also, consider drawing everyday (30 minutes) in a sketchbook.  Start with drawing what you see (household objects).  Eventually, draw what you cannot see from your imagination.  It is all about connecting your brain, your eye and hand.

3) I have no idea on the average age, but I would guess that you are younger than it at age 23.  Many graduate students are older (mid to late 20s) and some are even older (30s and 40s).

4) For your last question, I am not sure how to answer because I no very little of chemical engineering.  Aside from less financial compensation, you will be involved with creativity where there are no right or wrong answers to the problems.  I would suggest shadowing an architect if possible and keep asking lots of questions.

Feel free to ask additional questions after reading Becoming an Architect, 2nd Edition.

Career Change - Business to Architecture

I am looking to make a career change as I'm not satisfied with the past positions I've had as an executive assistant and customer service positions. I graduated four years ago with a degree in Business, Marketing emphasis, however, marketing, isn't the field I want to pursue. The more I think about it, the more I would like to go into drafting & design or architecture. My favorite part of my last job was space planning in AutoCAD for commerical office space. The main focus was laying out furniture and cubicles and removable walls, with some time spent removing/adding hard wall, electrical, plumbing, mechanical systems while maintaining the structural integrity.

I've been looking at drafting and design programs vs. architecture programs and don't know which might be best for me. Ideally, I'd like to go further into space planning, restaurant and store design and don't know if a full architecture program would be necessary.

Do you think I could find the opportunities desired by getting a second degree in drafting and design and not becoming a licensed architect? Could I still work as a drafter at an architecture firm without being licensed?

I do have some money in savings so I'm not terribly worried about the financial aspect because I do have a part time job as well, but I don't want to use up all that I have if I can help it.
__________

From what you have shared, I do not think you would be content with just a drafting and design program because you will be implementing the ideas of others and not your own.  Thus, I would suggest you pursue an NAAB accredited Master of Architecture degree.

With that said, you may wish to pursue drafting and design courses to develop an entry level set of skills to make the transition to architecture or related field - interior design.

You could certainly work within an architecture without being licensed, but you will not be satisfied in the long term.  Start by contacting the programs in your region (http://www.naab.org).  Visit the program to explore the process.

Also, consider obtaining the book, Becoming an Architect, 2nd ed.

Best. 

Career Change - Online Education?

I am interested in pursuing a second career in architecture. I already have a BA in Art Studio from Davidson College and an MBA in Information Systems from City University in Seattle, WA. After 26 years working (somewhat by accident, actually) in information systems, I've realized I really am not happy at what I've been doing. 

I've been doing some career exploration and began taking several architectural design and graphics classes at our local community college. Finances are a bit tight so I need to keep my current position or I need to be working while attending school (as I am currently doing). Moving is out of the question at the moment as well with my family situation and current mortgage. 

Are there any online programs that are accredited? I'm 47 years old so time is of the essence to complete an accredited degree and work toward licensing. What do you recommend?
__________

First, you may wish to search previous questions I have answered on the ARCHCareers blog - http://archcareers.blogspot.com -.

From a strict practical standpoint, you are eligible to apply to a Master of Architecture (3-4 years) given your previous education; but as you are in Seattle, UW would be your only choice for the professional accredited degree.  

arch.be.washington.edu

Given the nature of an architectural education, there are limited choices for online education - Boston Architectural College, Lawrence Technological University and Academy of Art University.

Perhaps, you can start by simply taking a class or two at UW to confirm your interest in architecture.  Also, have you thought about applying your current skill set to the architecture profession.  You could do what you are doing but within a larger architecture firm or the Department of Architecture at UW.  There are a lot of cool things happening within the profession.

In this case, you are NOT an architect, but you would not need to return to school.  Contact the local chapter of AIA - American Institute of Architects and the Department for ideas.

Go to a lecture at UW to connect with architects and the profession.  

Best!  Read books, blogs, and websites -- search Google for keywords that make sense for you.

Architecture / Planning

I am pleased that I came across your blog as I am interested in your opinion on the possibility of my making a career change at a rather late stage after moving away from an early career in architecture.

I am 54, admittedly a bit of a late-bloomer, do possess a background in architecture at the designer level, have an AAS in Architectural Design and Drafting as well as BSc in IT Management, am fairly adept at the creative/artistic side of architecture, do possess at least a nascent portfolio and am seriously considering a career change before I embark on graduate level IT management track.   My current dilemma is that having attained the level of IT director within a multi-national A/E firm, and having worked within the A/E sector my entire career, I question the wisdom of shifting gears at this stage of the game.

I originally spent six years as an architectural draftsman/designer before making a decision to move to CAD/IT management.  That decision was made, in part, on the idea that management of IT services within the A/E sector was going to be a progressive need, the salaries appeared to better and I had a natural desire to be in a management position.  Since that point my career trajectory has been decidedly IT based as I moved from CAD management into progressive IT management and consultancy assignments. Although I have demonstrated a certain aptitude towards management of IT services within the A/E sector I am more of a hybrid IT generalist than an IT specialist and am finding it increasingly difficult to advance my career in an ever-changing IT world.  That fact, coupled with the fact that my heart is just not in IT makes things a bit precarious.

I am sensitive that the idea that my age may preclude me from achieving an active career in architecture, or perhaps urban planning, yet my overall desire to make an impact on the landscape drives towards this career change idea.   Having worked in a number of US cities, as well as a number of international locations, I am struck by what to me is an obvious need for a more cohesive approach to urban development with a strong tie to architecture.  Given the aforementioned statements I wonder if a combo Master of Architecture/Urban Planning track such as the one offered at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee might be a viable option for me at this point in my career.

_______________

As my expertise is on Becoming an Architect, I would share the following:

If the factors in your current career are not what you want them to be, I would certainly have you consider pursuing architecture as a new career.  While there is certainly age-discrimination, you would still be an asset to an employer given your previous employment.  With your degree, a Master of Architecture would take 3-4 years.

As for the pursuit of a combined architecture/planning degree, I must defer to others as I am not as familiar with planning as a career.  Have you discussed your thoughts with the academic staff at UWM?  Visit the American Planning Association (APA - www.planning.org) for insight.

I firmly believe that one should pursue their passion and opportunities will become available.  With that said, you know the particulars to your career/life to best make the decision to change.

A final resource is the book - What Color is Your Parachute by R. Bolles -http://www.jobhuntersbible.com

Best! 

From Funeral Director to Architect

Hi, I'm 33 years old and I'm only 10 hours away of getting my Bachelor's in Business Management. I have an Associates in Mortuary Science and am a Licensed Funeral Director & Mortician with 16 years of experience and have been licensed 11 years now. I want to pursue my one of my dreams of becoming an architect. I'm single and no kids. My question is what route for schooling and career path should I take in pursuing for this. Also, I'm not the best in freehand drawing of buildings and such, would that be a hinderance to me in this profession? I am however pretty decent at mechanical drawing.
____________

As you are only 10 hours from your undergraduate degree, I would highly advise that you simply complete it allowing you to apply and enter a Master of Architecture (3-4 years).  Of course, you could apply as a transfer to an undergraduate degree in architecture but I am afraid this route would take longer.  For example, at the institution I work, it would take you three years to complete the BS Architectural Studies degree and an additional two to complete the MArch degree.

Plus, with your degree in business management, you may be more valuable upon graduation with your MArch.

Your best sources of information on architecture programs is NAAB (www.naab.org) or ARCHSchools.org. Both provide a list of accredited programs.  With some exception, you have probably missed out on applying for this fall.

As such, you may wish to consider attending a summer program in architecture. Because you will need to submit a portfolio when applying to a graduate program, another suggestion would be to take a art/life drawing course to develop your freehand skills.  While computers are prevalent in the profession, you still need freehand skills.  -- a computer screen is simply a sophisticated blank piece of paper.

Also, consider shadowing an architect you may know through where you live.

Best

Becoming an Architect in 50s.

With all the education that is required and post-graduation experience that is required before sitting for the exam is it too much for someone like me just turning 53 ?.  Probably couldn't get in one of the large firms....I was looking at the classes and see its like another 4-6 years plus experience,I'll be like 60-62 before taking exam.....Oh we'll.....I knew I should of stayed at that firm I was at in 1987....still kicking myself for leaving and they were going to pay for school too......

 

Thanks for least reading this and giving me positive feedback if you can

___________

I know of individuals that have pursued architecture when in their 50s.  You do not provide much of your background, but if you wish to pursue architecture, why not do it.  Even if you did not apply for this fall, you would graduate in 3-4 years after beginning.  If you worked during the summers, you could be completing your IDP and taking the exam within the 2-3 years upon graduation putting you at about 58-60 when you become an architect leaving you 20-30 years of practice.

Philip Johnson became an architect at 39 years and practiced until in his 90s when he died.

http://archcareers.blogspot.com

Of course, depending on your professional background, you may be able to enter the industry now without the education and not becoming a licensed architect.

Best.

Job Search - Prior to MArch

I am currently in my 3rd year of undergraduate studies at the University of Chicago. Though I am not currently studying in a field directly related to architecture, I plan to pursue a masters degree in architecture after graduating. I aspire to one day become a licensed architect. 

I understand the requirements and efforts necessary for me to apply to such programs as a liberal arts undergrad, but in order to make myself more competitive and to get a better feel for the profession, I think I want to pursue an internship/job opportunity related to architecture for this summer. 

Unfortunately, this is incredibly difficult for someone with minimal CAD experience and no undergraduate studies in architecture. I've written about buildings quite a bit both as a journalist and in university, but other than attacking this problem from that angle, I don't really know how to get my foot in the door. Any suggestions?
______________

Congrats on your desire to pursue architecture and to become an architect

As for getting yourself in the door of an architecture firm prior to your graduate degree and with minimal experience, I offer the following:

First, do your homework on potential employers - architecture firms and others.  Ideally, you wish to work for an architecture firm, but there may be other design-related disciplines/employers that may also be helpful in your transition.  The AIA Illinois has a book entitled Archipages which lists all AIA-member owned firms in the state of Illinois.  The AIA Chicago has a website with many Chicago-based firms.

Next, you need to do an inventory of your skills (separate from AutoCad).  Although you may not have architectural skills, you do have skills that may be of interest to potential employers.  You mention writing - perhaps, you can be hired for a firm's marketing department to write proposals, marketing briefs, etc.  You can still be valuable to a firm even without architectural skills.

As well, you need to connect with architecture firms beyond the job search.  Become involved with the AIA Chicago (attend lectures, volunteer, etc.) to meet architects and architectural students/graduates who may help with connections.  Consider attending lectures at either IIT or UIC and meet those others that attend.

As you write - have you thought about blogging about buildings and architecture to become more known.

These are some ideas -- keep connecting and consider obtaining Becoming an Architect, 2nd ed.

Best.

Mathematician to Architect

First, I have to say that I love your blog. You're very informative, and although there are resources available online that have vast amounts of information, few of them feel so personal and reliable. Just had to get that out of the way first.

I have a question for you regarding a career switch. I've just received a Bachelor's in Mathematics from a small state university in Oklahoma (University of Central Oklahoma), and I am considering making a change to architecture. For some context, I have obviously had way, way too much math, including every Calculus course to be taken, but I also have a minor in Engineering Physics, which allowed me to take classes regarding static structures and forces, something I understand could provide a very good foundation for some architecture coursework. I am, however, very interested in the design side and many of the less "scientific" aspects (although I find them just as captivating), so rather than Architectural Engineering, I'd like to pursue Architecture. I have had a consistent passion for art and for design, and have actually done a few things such as building my own guitar, sketching and designing small things around the place I have like a drug addict, and carving and painting, so building a portfolio may not be as hard for me as for others, but it will still take a long, long while and I have a long, long way to go.

I have done some - though not enough - research into options for making a switch this dramatic, but as it stands, going back for another undergraduate degree would be highly difficult for me as I have no means to pay for it now that I've invested so heavily in something so much different (different courseloads, different research, different everything, it seems like). I am convinced that this is something that I'd love to do, but four years of experience tell me not to jump into something so quickly. I've thankfully had the fortune of saving a little bit of money on school so far, so it's not altogether not an option to go back, but I've also located some programs that are "career-switch" programs for graduate degrees, such as one at UT-Austin or the University of Cincinnati that require about 3.5 years to finish, but results in an accredited degree (or something close to it) through a Master's in Architecture.

However, again, money and funding are a huge problem for me. I simply can't afford to take out loans that something like UT-Austin or other places would require, but I haven't found much information on ways to pay for something like this. In mathematics, the way I know people usually get around this is getting some kind of assitantship for the duration of their M.S., M.A., or Ph.D, so it comes out fairly even. I'm noticing the system in architecture is a little different.

So, here's the question: would there be any good resources you could point me to, or any advice you could give me, on funding such a long shot option? I've read a lot of posts - including on here - about how one of the greatest architects of the 20th century started architecture pretty late in his life, so I know it's possible, but it just seems so difficult. My grades were decent - 3.25 GPA overall and 3.5 subject plus several honors and awards, and some research to my name - so hopefully there is some hope.

Also, are there other programs in the U.S. or in Europe that have the career-switching Master's like this that you know of? I've found about three or four, but have had some trouble finding more. 

Thank you for the time, and keep up the awesome work on this blog!
____________

Thanks for the compliments on the ARCHCareers.org blog.

Given you have an undergraduate degree (albeit in another discipline), you are eligible to apply to a Master of Architecture degree at any number of institutions.  The MArch will take between 3-4 years depending on the program to which you attend.  To research schools, visit http://www.naab.org or http://www.archschools.org -- both have a list of accredited programs.

Given some of your coursework was related, you may receive the waiver of some courses but because of design studio, the overall length will still be 3-4 years.

As for funding, contact the programs directly as many have assistantships and fellowships for students.  Most of these will be awarded on merit.

You will also need to develop a portfolio for admission.  Consider taking an art or drawing course to create materials for your admission.

Finally, visit -- http://archcareers.org and consider purchasing Becoming an Architect, 2nd Ed.

Best

Psychology to Architecture

First and foremost, I have your book, and have read it among others. I have this burning fascination with Architecture and design that will not go away and I do not think it will. Therefore, as I enter my degree in Psychology at UCLA I am realizing working with people and design is a much better fit for me. Thus, I think I may be in the right field.

Anyway, I am in a Psych program and am starting my junior year at UCLA, with full intention of applying for Berkeley's Summer IN ARCH program for 2013. I am looking for CADD classes to take at home on the side, as well as reading material and studying on my own. The love truly never did die! Anyways, do you think this program would be a good fit?

I am not presently perfect at math but realize that taking Calculus and some Drawing Classes this year would be good elective choices. I also realize that the Summer program is not accredited but it seems the experience of Berkeley and also the possible LOR and portfolio build up may make the program valuable. I think it may also give me a cost-effective way to see if I really would enjoy Architect school.

Any advice based on my situation would be greatly appreciated. I thank you in advance for reading my email and any response you may give.

____________

Thanks for reading my book; I am hopeful that it is providing you some insight.

I congratulate you on your desire to pursue architecture after your psychology degree at UCLA and attend the summer program at Berkeley, but I would not suggest you take CADD courses.  Instead, take drawing or art courses to develop materials for your portfolio as you apply to potential graduate programs.

Also, as you are at UCLA, visit the architecture studios and talk with architecture students.  See if they have a course you can take as a non-major.  Consider attending their lecture series.  Contact some of the professors at UCLA for reading lists -- visit the architecture library.

Do not worry about the summer program not being accredited as it cannot be -- Only full degree programs in architecture can be accredited -- visit http://www.naab.org - to understand the accreditation process and a list of programs.

Get involved in the discipline and profession by seeing architecture; begin to sketch and draw what you see in LA.

I hope this gets you off to a good start.

Internship Seeking

I have my Bachelor of Arts in Architecture from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. I started the fifth year program but ran into funding issues, i.e. I ran out of money. Now I need to work instead of finishing my degree. I wish it were different but this is not the case so…

A little about me, I am about to turn 39 and returned to school after many years as a carpenter. I have a lot of building experience. I was an independent contractor for many years so the resume looks a little thin for someone of my age. I bring a lot to the table that many of my academic colleagues do not. Much of this is due to my work history but mine is not the typical route to Architecture. Do you have any advice on how to proceed? 

My fear is that I will not represent myself properly and be looked over for someone who is a bit more of the typical candidate. I suppose that I am just wondering about how to best move forward with my career shift. 

My philosophy on work is more about fit than anything else. I'm not looking to be the next starchitect, I just want to do good work. I know that somewhere out there a firm could use someone with my skills but how does one go about finding that firm.  

Any advice that you have would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for taking the time to read this.

________

 

I can certainly appreciate your current situation; my best suggestion is to NETWORK.  I truly mean network -- each day, you should be meeting between 4-6 new individuals that can assist you in your search for an internship.

Start with those you know - family, friends, classmates, faculty and move to those you do not know.  Connect via FB, LinkedIn, other social media, attending architectural related events, volunteering, etc.  Your full-time job is to secure an internship and/or position.

Given your background is slightly different, you need to truly step back and determine what you bring to the table that your classmates do not -- what skills do you bring?  While it is necessary to present your education and background via a resume, your best approach is in-person.  Knock on doors of architectural firms.

One book to recommend is What Color is Your Parachute by Richard Bolles.  It provides tremendous input on job search and career change.

Be very proactive and keep at it.

Best!

Mechanical Engineer

I am a college student and I am emailing you because I have a question about the profession of architecture.

So, here it is: I am currently a mechanical engineering student, but I've become somewhat disenchanted with my major. However, I have always been interested in the idea of architecture. Are there any opportunities in the field of architecture where I could put my ME degree to use? In other words, are there ways to get in architecture "business" without having a degree in arch.? I am open to any thoughts or ideas, including professions related to architecture.

__________

Given that many firms are EA - Engineering Architecture firms, I would guess that there may be opportunities to put you ME degree to use within the architecture profession. It may more difficult for you, thus you may wish to attempt to take architecture courses or a minor while you complete your ME degree.

For the long term, you may wish to consider pursuing the Master of Architecture (3-4 years) for someone with a degree other than architecture.  Read an answer from a previous question.

http://archcareers.blogspot.com/2010/03/mechanical-engineer-to-architect.html

I hope this helps!

Lateral Entry into Architecture

Originally ten years ago i wanted to study architecture, but i wasn't sure about it and the general opinion about job-possibilites after graduation was bad at that time, similar to nowadays. Looking back now i know that it was a bad idea to let me influence through these opinions. I'm now 31 have a bachelor degree in sportscience and business administration and working in marketing for an IT company. So far it doesn't sound bad, but i'm totally unhappy with it. I've a good spatial sense, good taste concerning colours, pattern and i can draw good (especially when it goes into detail and
exact proportions of objects), so I want to use this talent to create space, buildings, interiour.

I'm thinking about studying again, this time architecture. But if it would be possible i would do rather a master degree than a bachelor one, of course i do not want to waste any time anymore. I tried to find some examples of people who started as well late with architecture and earn enough money to make a living, but i couldn't. I'm curious about your opinion. Do you know anybody at this age who went into architecture? -what do you think about Master Degrees (3 Years) which are designed for people who have no architecture background so far? Which of these are recommendable? An important point is as well the question about the financing. Without studentship and additional work i won't be able to afford it.

Therefore I'm thinking about alternatives. Is there any design field which is complementary to architecture and maybe easier to access and in demand?

Any advise and hints are helpful!

___________

Although you are a little older (31), you can still pursue your dream of becoming an architect.  Given you have a degree albeit in another discipline, you can pursue the Master of Architecture (3-4 years) for individuals that have a degree in another discipline.  For a list of programs that offer such a degree, visit both NAAB (http://www.naab.org) and ARCHSchools.org.  Just be sure you pursue an accredited degree as it is necessary for licensure.

In my almost 20 years of working in three different architecture programs (IIT, Maryland, and University of Illinois).  I have know plenty of individuals who were your age or older.  Philip Johnson, one of the greatest architects in the 20th century did not become an architect until 39; he practiced until his death in his 90s.  Other than the financial impact, I would not worry about your age - besides, you have something that other do not - another degree.

Most graduate programs do offer assistantships and fellowships, but you would need to check with individual programs.  Given your background, you may be able to contribute to the program.

As for other career fields connected to architecture, you may consider any of the following:

Interior Design
Construction Management
Landscape Architecture
Urban Planning
Graphic Design
Product Design
etc.

You may also try to pursue employment in a design firm doing what you do now.  You would not be doing architecture, but you would be engaged in the environment.

BArch or MArch?

I just came across your website/blog. and I thought you're the perfect person for me to ask a question which I desperately need an answer to. 

I did my Bachelor in Interior Design, worked for a year then started my MSc in Sustainable Design of the Built Environment, which I'll be finishing off this June. I am now really interested in architecture and I'm looking to further continue my studies to be able to become an architect. 

My problem is I don't know whether to go for a BArch or MArch. I am really confused. I would really appreciate your insight on this? 

I hope I'm not bothering you. After going through your blog, I am under the impression that you help people in Architecture topics?

Many thanks and regards

________

 

I am pleased to help.

Given you have (will have) two degrees, you should consider applying to the Master of Architecture (3-4 years) designed for those that already have a degree.  Available at over 50 institutions, these degrees started in the 1980s as more and more individuals with a degree in another discipline were pursuing degrees in architecture.

If you were to pursue a BArch, it would take you a minimum of four and maybe the full five years because of the studio sequence.

A resource for you is ARCHSchools.org, a database of accredited degree programs.

I hope this helps!