Architectural Education: What To Expect In College & Beyond

Becoming an architect requires significant education and training, both in the classroom and on the job. Whether students are just starting their journey toward a career in architecture or are already a practicing architect looking to advance your skills, it's important to understand what to expect from architectural education. From coursework and hands-on experience to licensure and job outlook, this article will provide an overview of what students can expect in college and beyond as they pursue a career in architecture.

Coursework: Architectural education coursework covers a wide range of topics, including design, history, theory, technology and professional practice.

Design studios: Design studio courses are the heart of architectural education, where students learn to develop and refine their design skills. Students typically work on projects that range from small-scale residential buildings to large-scale commercial or institutional structures. 

Building technology: Building technology courses focus on the technical aspects of constructing buildings, including materials, construction methods and building systems. Students learn to integrate these elements into their designs while meeting environmental, safety and accessibility standards.

Hands-on experience: Hands-on experience is an essential component of architectural education, as it provides students with opportunities to apply what they have learned in the classroom to real-world projects.

Internships: Many architectural education programs require or encourage students to participate in internships or other work experiences with architectural firms, contractors or government agencies. These internships allow students to gain practical experience working on real projects and to develop their professional networks.

Design-build projects: Some architectural education programs offer design-build projects, in which students design and construct a building or structure. These projects provide students with hands-on experience in all aspects of the design and construction process, from initial planning to final construction.

Licensure: Licensure is a critical aspect of a career in architecture, as it is required in most states or jurisdictions to practice architecture professionally.

Professional degree: To become licensed, architects must typically hold a professional degree in architecture and must have registered themselves with the Council of Architecture. The COA oversees the maintenance of the standards periodically by way of conducting inspections through Committees of Experts.

Work experience: In addition to holding a professional degree, architects must gain a certain amount of work experience before they can become licensed. The exact amount of experience required varies by state, but it typically ranges from three to five years.  

Job outlook: The job outlook for architects varies depending on factors such as the economy, demand for construction projects and government funding for infrastructure projects.

Urbanisation over the past few decades has increased the need for infrastructural development. With the development of many small towns, India needs trained architects, for integrated, organised urban development. This rapid progress also highlighted the need for skilled individuals in the infrastructure sector. It also highlighted the wide gap between the actual professional skills required and students' capabilities. There is a need to decrease this gap.  

Demand for sustainable design: As environmental concerns become increasingly important, there is a growing demand for architects who specialiae in sustainable design. This includes designing buildings that are energy-efficient, use renewable materials and have a low environmental impact.

Salary: Architects' salaries can vary based on a number of factors, such as level of experience, location, industry and specialty.

Overall average salary: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for architects was around 10 lakh rupees. The lowest 10 percent earned less than around 8 lakh rupees while the highest 10 percent earned more than around 12 lakh rupees.

Experience level: Architects with more experience typically earn higher salaries. For example, architects with less than 5 years of experience earn a median salary of around 6 lakh rupees per year, while architects with over 20 years of experience can earn over 30 lakh rupees per year.

Overall, students pursuing architectural education can expect to gain a wide range of skills related to the design, construction and management of buildings and structures. With licensure and experience, architects can enjoy a fulfilling and potentially lucrative career.

Rekha Kejriwal

Guest Author The author is Academic Director, Academy of Fashion & Art (AFA)