 Career & Major Overview
Architects design the overall aesthetic and look of buildings and other structures, but the design of a building involves far more than its appearance. Buildings also must be functional, safe, and economical and must suit the needs of the people who use them. Architects consider all these factors when they design buildings and other structures.
Significant Facts
- More than 1 in 5 architects was self-employed—about three times the proportion for all professional and related occupations.
- Licensing requirements include a professional degree in architecture, a period of practical training, and passing all divisions of the Architect Registration Examination.
- Architecture graduates may face competition, especially for jobs in the most prestigious firms; opportunities will be best for those with experience working for a firm while still in school and for those with knowledge of computer-aided design and drafting technology.
 Nature of the Work
Architects provide professional services to individuals and organizations planning a construction project. They may be involved in all phases of development, from the initial discussion with the client through the entire construction process. Their duties require specific skills—designing, engineering, managing, supervising, and communicating with clients and builders. Architects spend a great deal of time explaining their ideas to clients, construction contractors, and others. Successful architects must be able to communicate their unique vision persuasively.
The architect and client discuss the objectives, requirements, and budget of a project. In some cases, architects provide various predesign services—conducting feasibility and environmental impact studies, selecting a site, or specifying the requirements the design must meet. For example, they may determine space requirements by researching the numbers and types of potential users of a building. The architect then prepares drawings and a report presenting ideas for the client to review.
After discussing and agreeing on the initial proposal, architects develop final construction plans that show the building’s appearance and details for its construction. Accompanying these plans are drawings of the structural system; air-conditioning, heating, and ventilating systems; electrical systems; communications systems; plumbing; and, possibly, site and landscape plans. The plans also specify the building materials and, in some cases, the interior furnishings. In developing designs, architects follow building codes, zoning laws, fire regulations, and other ordinances, such as those requiring easy access by disabled persons. Throughout the planning stage, they make necessary changes. Although they have traditionally used pencil and paper to produce design and construction drawings, architects are increasingly turning to computer-aided design and drafting (CADD) technology for these important tasks. Continual revision of plans on the basis of client needs and budget constraints is often necessary.
 Architects may also assist clients in obtaining construction bids, selecting contractors, and negotiating construction contracts. As construction proceeds, they may visit building sites to make sure that contractors follow the design, adhere to the schedule, use the specified materials, and meet work quality standards. The job is not complete until all construction is finished, required tests are conducted, and construction costs are paid. Sometimes, architects also provide postconstruction services, such as facilities management. They advise on energy efficiency measures, evaluate how well the building design adapts to the needs of occupants, and make necessary improvements.
Architects design a wide variety of buildings, such as office and apartment buildings, schools, churches, factories, hospitals, houses, and airport terminals. They also design complexes such as urban centers, college campuses, industrial parks, and entire communities. In addition, they may advise on the selection of building sites, prepare cost analysis and land-use studies, and do long-range planning for land development.
 Architects sometimes specialize in one phase of work. Some specialize in the design of one type of building—for example, hospitals, schools, or housing. Others focus on planning and predesign services or construction management and do minimal design work. They often work with engineers, urban planners, interior designers, landscape architects, and other professionals. In fact, architects spend a great deal of their time coordinating information from, and the work of, others engaged in the same project. Many architects—particularly at larger firms—use the Internet and e-mail to update designs and communicate changes efficiently. Architects also use the Internet to research product specifications and government regulations.
During the required training period leading up to licensing as architects, entry-level workers are called interns. This training period, which generally lasts 3 years, gives them practical work experience in preparation for the Architect Registration Examination (ARE). Typical duties may include preparing construction drawings on CADD, building models, or assisting in the design of one part of a project.
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 Earnings Potential
Median annual earnings of wage and salary architects were $56,620 in 2002.
The middle 50 percent earned between $44,030 and $74,460. The lowest 10 percent
earned less than $36,280, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $92,350.
Earnings of partners in established architectural firms may fluctuate because of changing business conditions. Some architects may have difficulty establishing their own practices and may go through a period when their expenses are greater than their income, requiring substantial financial resources.
Becoming a Professional
Becoming a licensed architect requires three primary steps:
- Obtain a first professional degree from a program accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). Most states require aspiring architects to hold an accredited degree.
- Complete an internship, a training period that typically lasts three years. The American Institute of Architects (AIA) and the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) established the Intern Development Program, which standardizes intern training.
- Pass the Architect Registration Examination (ARE), administered by the NCARB. This four-day exam covers site, building, and structural design, building systems, materials, and practice-related issues. Interns who pass the ARE become licensed as professionals in building design to protect the public health, safety, and welfare.
AIA membership requires a program of continuing education.
Aptitudes for Success
To be successful in an environmental design and planning career, aspiring professionals should develop:
- The ability to perceive and interpret societal needs, goals, and values in regard to the earth's limited resources.
- Analytical abilities through training in mathematics and the physical and social sciences.
- The ability to organize and synthesize concepts.
- Artistic talent--the ability to see and compose functional, creative environments.
- The ability to communicate effectively--orally and in written and graphic form--with clients, the public, and other professionals.
 Related Occupations
Architects design buildings and related structures. Construction managers, like architects, also plan and coordinate activities concerned with the construction and maintenance of buildings and facilities. Others who engage in similar work are landscape architects, civil engineers, urban and regional planners, and designers, including interior designers, commercial and industrial designers, and graphic designers.
Working Conditions
Architects usually work in a comfortable environment. Most of their time is spent in offices consulting with clients, developing reports and drawings, and working with other architects and engineers. However, they often visit construction sites to review the progress of projects.
Architects may occasionally be under stress, working nights and weekends to meet deadlines. In 2002, more than half of all full-time architects worked more than 40 hours a week.
What Career Opportunities does Architecture offer?
You have to check out our complete list of careers that you can enjoy with a degree in Architecture. Go now
What schools offer Architecture?
Different schools have different approaches to Architecture education. If you are interested in Architecture, please contact the universities listed in our database for information.
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