MArch vs. Post-Professional Degree

I was curious if you have encountered many B.Arch grads pursuing an M.arch after licensure? I graduated with a B.Arch a few years ago, have about three years of work under my belt and have started sitting for sections of the ARE, while life is pretty uncomplicated and I have the time. However, I would like to keep the option of teaching open (my understanding is the M.Archs are necessary if one wants to teach later on) and do still have a strong desire to go back to school in the next couple of years. I myself don't know anyone that has taken this track but I just wonder if it does happen occasionally and would like to hear your thoughts on the idea.
_______

First, congrats on your obtaining your BArch and a desire to pursue additional education.

As you BArch is a first professional degree, you do not need to pursue the MArch, instead seek a post-professional degree. At some institutions, it may be called a Master of Architecture; at other institutions, it may be called either a Master of Science in Architecture or by another name.

NCARB maintains a list of post-professional degrees available as you may gain IDP credit by pursuing a post-professional degree.

http://www.ncarb.org/en/Experience-Through-Internships/Meeting-NCARB-Experience-Requirements/Supplementary-Education/Supplementary-Education-Elective/Post-Professional-Degrees-Overview/Post-Professional-Degree-Programs.aspx

While most accredited architecture programs will probably prefer candidates with a post-professional degree, you may be able to teach with only your BArch if you apply to some programs or seek a teaching position within a community college.

I would advise that you not pursue a post-professional degree ONLY to have the credentials for pursuing teaching; instead, determine what aspect of architecture you wish to pursue and seek a program that fits your interest.

Best!

Dr. Architecture

Master of Architecture - Options

My husband is an active duty marine and I am limited on my educational opportunities. I am trying to further my career while moving frequently to different bases. I am strongly considering enrolling in the BS program of Interior Design from the Art Institute of Pittsburgh, Online. An online program seems to be the best route for me. If pursuing the M.Arch I path, are there any BA/BS programs that aren't recognized or that won't transfer when pursuing a Masters in Architecture? When pursuing a Masters from a grad school, is there any discrimination towards previous BA/BS obtained, or is it all fair game?
_________

In one respect, you can obtain any undergraduate degree to pursue a Master of Architecture; however, the degree you receive will determine the length of time for the MArch degree.

For example, if you obtain a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies degree or equivalent, a Master of Architecture will typically take two years, but some graduate programs will require three years. Instead, if you obtain a Bachelor of Arts in Architecture, some programs may require you to take more than two years depending on the curriculum of your BA degree and the courses you took.

If your undergraduate degree is in an unrelated discipline, a Master of Architecture degree will take between 3-4 years depending on the institution. This would be the case of your the Interior Design degree you mention in your email. While you could certainly pursue the online program, there are no online 3-4 year Master of Architecture degrees. The Boston Architectural College (BAC) does have a distance MArch, but only for those that have an undergraduate BS in Architectural Studies degree.

Thus, graduate programs do not discriminate but rather accept you where you are given your undergraduate degree.

I certainly appreciate you limits; do the best you can and I wish you well.

Dr. Architecture

Pre-Architecture Postitions

I am considering pursuing a M.Arch, but before making the time and financial commitment I want more first-hand insight into the profession of architecture, as well as gain some experience to help me through the M.Arch program. A job with an architecture firm would be ideal (I'm willing to do just about any kind of work, as long as I can observe the architects), but I've read those jobs are few and far between. I've read a good alternative is a job with a building construction company. If jobs with architecture firms are indeed difficult to find, what kind of jobs should I look for with construction companies? Do you have any other suggestions for pre-M.Arch jobs?
_____
I can certainly understand your desire to work in the field prior to committing to your studies, but depending on your background, this may be difficult even within a construction company. Many construction companies require union membership.

Instead, I would suggest you attempt to gain informational interviews with architects from different firms - small, large, etc. In this way, you see a diversity of experiences to aid in your decision.

Use the local chapter of the American Institute of Architects in your region or simply the Yellow Pages to aid you in identifying architects with whom to interview and meet. Are you near a school of architecture? Do the same with a school?

Dr. Architecture

Architecture Programs

I know a student (B, average math, no design background, only art is ceramics) who wishes to enter an architecture program. He could obtain an internship with an architectural firm in India first semester and enter college in the spring. He'd like to attend a college next fall where he can transfer into a pre-professional architecture program if he cannot be admitted to one directly. He lives in Virginia, and certainly cannot get into VPI or UVa. Any suggestions?
________

I would suggest you focus on programs that offer the four year pre-professional degree. These degrees would be most flexible if he pursues the internship or is not directly admitted. You could pursue any program in the country, but programs in the near region include the following:

Catholic University of America (Washington, DC)
Cincinnati, University of (Cincinnati, OH)
Clemson University (Clemson, SC)
Hampton University (Hampton, VA) - 5 1/2 Master of Architecture, but in Virginia
Kent State University (Kent, OH)
Kentucky, University of (Lexington, KY)
Maryland, University (College Park, MD)
Memphis, University of (Memphis, TN)
Miami University (Oxford, OH)
Morgan State University (Baltimore, MD)
North Carolina at Charlotte, University of (Charlotte, NC)
Ohio State University (Columbus, OH)

Another option would be community colleges that have articulate courses with an architecture program. For many 4+2 programs, the first year or two is mainly general education courses which would allow him to take these courses and transfer after his first year.

Dr. Architecture

Architecture - Career Decision

I am interested in architecture and I just finished high school this year and graduated with science subjects,physics, chemistry, mathematics and English in my home country Tanzania, out of the six options of courses I was asked to choose, I later was chosen to do computer science... is computer science related to architecture? Can i just pursue that degree then do architecture later? Or will I have lost a lot of time by then? And what will be the major requirements since I don't have a portfolio of work....Another thing is that I have an opportunity to study a foundational course in the UK at Sheffield Int. College which will direct me to Structural engineering and architectural studies. What is the difference between this and architecture itself?

My great desire is to be an architect. I just need to know what path I ought to take so that I won't waste time and later regret
_________

First understand that my expertise is in becoming an architect in the United States. With that said, I would suggest to you that computer science is not related to architecture. In the US, you could certainly pursue architecture (Master of Architecture) after you received a degree in computer science. It would certainly take you longer.

To apply to a Master of Architecture degree, you will definitely need a portfolio of creative work. If possible, take courses in art, freehand drawing to produce materials for your portfolio.

Below are definitions of the two terms.

Structural engineering is a field of engineering dealing with the analysis and design of structures that support or resist loads. Structural engineering is usually considered a specialty within civil engineering, but it can also be studied in its own right.

Architecture is the art and science of designing and erecting buildings and other physical structure

In summary, if your passion is architecture, you may wish to consider studying it as soon as you are able. I wish you the best.

Dr. Architecture

IDP Hours

I came across your blog"ARCH Career" and found various posts which is very helpful.
I am B.Arch graduate from India graduated in 2008. I am currently in San Francisco, CA.
I just got in a part time job now, and I want to know if I can add those part time working hours to my IDP? Also I worked in India for 1 year in an Architectural Firm. I worked 6 months in 1 Firm, another 6 months in a different firm. Can I add these too to my credit hours? If so do I have to get a letter from my Previous Employee who hired me(From India)?

How do I start my IDP Hours? Do I have to register before I start accumulating my IDP hours?
I know I asked way too may questions.Sorry about that. I asked many people and no one seems to really know about the Foreign Degree.

I would really appreciate if you could help me regarding this.
___________

First, I am pleased to know that you have found the ARCHCareers blog helpful.

Now, the best place for all of your answers on IDP is NCARB -- http://www.ncarb.org/en/Experience-Through-Internships.aspx

Everything you possibly want to know is outlined in the IDP Guidelines also available from the website. For example, with respect to working part-time, it counts if it meets this requirement.

Effective 1 July 2008:
To earn training hours in most work settings, you must meet the following requirements:
FULL TIME: 32 hours per week for a minimum period of eight consecutive weeks
PART TIME: At least 15 hours per week for a minimum period of eight consecutive weeks

Normally, you experience in India would count, however, NCARB now has the six-month rule which means you must document your experience within six months; again, review the IDP Guidelines.

To begin, start a NCARB Council Record - www.ncarb.org.

I also found the attached Path to Licensure Handbook from the AIA California Council which may be helpful. -- http://www.aiacc.org/cgi-bin/htmlos.cgi/001331.2.1010201881819558723

Dr. Architecture

Seeking Employment - Frustration

Dear Dr. Architecture, I am a 23 year old who just recently graduated from a University with my Masters Degree. Unfortunately I attained my degree in Architecture. Which I guess is one of the worst degrees to have in this economy. I have applied for numerous jobs, but I have not received any responses. Most of the jobs require experience(2-5 years). I cannot become a licensed architect unless I am employed as an architect or intern. Currently, I am working a part time job that does not require a degree, and I have moved back home to California. Do you have any suggestions for me, should I go back to school, is there a better state to find an architect job? I am getting really frustrated, any help you can give me will be greatly appreciated.
________

Certainly, the profession of architecture has suffered greatly during this economic time, but I would disagree with your statement -- "one of the worst degree ..." I would say the exact opposite.

Someone who has a degree in architecture is probably best equipped for job searching because of a degree in architecture is the best liberal arts degree -- it teaches one to problem solve creatively. Granted, you have been unable to secure employment but perhaps you need to broaden your search and truly analyze the skills you can offer a prospective employer.

I understand that such an approach may postpone your officially becoming an architect but did you know that you can still gain some experience in IDP although not employed.

First, one resource to read is What Color is Your Parachute by Richard Bolles (http://www.jobhuntersbible.com/). It is a book to do, not just read. Also, become connected with the AIA in California; depending on when you graduated, you may still be eligible for free membership (http://www.aia.org/about/memberservices/AIAS077102). More specifically, connect with other emerging professionals through programs offered by the AIA. Some chapters have networking programs and support groups for those seeking employment.

Network! Volunteer! Spend eight hours a day seeking! As mentioned before, expand your employer base; what skills do you have to offer a prospective employer and who are those employers that can use your set of skills.

Do not give up! The profession of architecture will need you when the economy recovers.

Dr. Architecture

Architecture Internships in NYC

I would love to do an Internship in New York.
Could you help me, getting some answers to the many questions I have about how to contact the Architects or better, which Architects.
And also if you do have some information about the J- Visa, as I am from Europe.

Thank you!
__________
I think a number of aspiring architects would love to do an internship in NYC.

Probably your best source for a list of architects in NYC is the following: http://aiany.aiany.org/firm-directory.

As for visa information, below is the best source.

http://travel.state.gov/visa/visa_1750.html

Dr. Architecture

3D Animation in Architecture

I have a bachelors degree in film from the University of Notre Dame and a certificate in 3D animation from the Center for Digital Imaging Arts at Boston University. I specialize in 3D architectural visualizations and am looking to work for an architecture firm. However, I am having difficulty finding anywhere that is hiring. As I am just starting out in this field, I am unsure how to get my name out or how to find these kinds of positions.

I am located in Williston, VT (right near Burlington) but should theoretically be able to work for anyone from home. Do you have any suggestions of places I should look at or how I should proceed with my career search? I am also happy to provide any other information you think may be useful. I appreciate your help.
__________

Congratulations on your degree from Notre Dame and additional certificate. As you may know, my expertise is truly on becoming an architect, but I will add my insight that I will hope be helpful.

As you wish to work for an architecture firm, you should be connected to architects; the best way is to become a professional affiliate of the American Institute of Architects (AIA - http://www.aia.org -- AIA Vermont - http://www.aiavt.org/)

Additional resources
SMIBE is a volunteer-run educational and professional organization that supports the advancement of moving image arts about the built environment.

http://www.smibe.org/

There are too many to list, but simply use a search engine in your internet browser to search for "3D animation in architecture firms." Read professional journals, attend conferences on the topic and even consider beginning a blog on the topic to get you name out. I found this one -- not exactly, but seems to be helpful.

http://knol.google.com/k/3d-architectural-renderings#

Think of yourself as a business that has a skill/expertise to offer. Who might need your skills? Think big beyond just architecture. Perhaps a realtor does to market their homes for sale.


Dr. Architecture

Job searching

I was hoping you could help with career questions. I have a liberal arts degree and curious about any work available for someone without a architecture degree, I have some CAD and Photoshop experience. Any advice is greatly appreciated.

__________

First, my expertise is on becoming an architect, but I will share some thoughts.

Given the current job market in architecture, it is highly unlikely that architecture firms will hire anyone without any architecture degree. With that said, you can certainly promote your skills to architecture firms, but you may need more than just SOME CAD and Photoshop experience. Outside of traditional architecture firms, possible other employer types might include engineering firms, landscape architecture firms, interior design firms or even construction companies. You have to think about possible employers who could use your set of skills beyond just the CAD and Photoshop. What skills did you develop from your liberal arts degree that would transferable.

Another thought would be real estate or manufacturers that need employees that know CAD.

Dr. Architecture