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What would be the difference in going into an architecture career with a bachelor's compared to a master's?

I'm currently in my sophomore year of college and I've been asked a few times if I was getting my master's but I'm not really sure if I want to, I know overall having a master's would probably get you into more opportunities but is there more? Like if I started working at a firm with my bachelor's would I be doing less designing and more busy work or drafting compared to someone with a master's?

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Henry’s Answer

Hi Cedella,

Great question! A master's degree helps postgraduates earn a professional qualification. While it can open up teaching opportunities, if you're looking to join a firm, having a master's doesn't make a big difference. There's a little more focus on designing, but you won't miss out if you don't have one. What's really important is gaining experience in every part of your work as a design professional.
Thank you comment icon Thank you a lot for your answer! I feel less pressured and stressed about having to get a master's now, since my main concern was money and how much of a difference that'd make, thank you again! :) Cedella
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Patrick’s Answer

Cedella, I have recently discussed with my own son, who’s currently in a master’s program at University of Nebraska, Lincoln, for architecture. A master's degree in architecture can absolutely be valuable, depending on your long-term goals. He believes that it offers a professional qualification that can open doors—particularly if you’re interested in teaching at the university level or taking on more research-focused or academic roles. While it may not drastically change your prospects when applying to architecture firms, it can help sharpen your design thinking, give you access to more advanced projects, and deepen your understanding of the profession.

That said, I still believe that real-world experience remains the most critical factor in this field. My son has talked to many firms who said they are ultimately looking for designers who are well-rounded, practical, and capable of working across all phases of a project—from concept development to construction documents. My son also believes that it will enhance his resume, but does realize that it won’t replace the value of hands-on experience.

Also, one of the great things about the Master of Architecture program is my son did not have to have a undergraduate degree in Architecuter. He studied Art in school. He is an good example of why you can still pursue this path and graduate with the same professional qualifications. So, while a master’s degree isn’t always required to be successful in architecture, it can certainly add value, open new doors, and give you a competitive edge, especially if you’re thinking about teaching or exploring specialized areas of design.
Thank you comment icon Yeah, one of the reasons why I've been thinking about this so hard was because I felt like having a master's would open more doors than a bachelor's, but then I felt like if I started working with a master's with no actually work experience I have high expectations placed on me. I think I'm going to get my bachelor's then start working, and after a few years if I want to further my education I will! Thank you for the help! Cedella
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Michael’s Answer

I agree with Henry. I wanted to go all the way to PhD, but it took (working my way through a few at a time) four years for the Associate's, then another six for the Bachelor's. By that time, I was done. If I'd stayed at the BBQ restaurant I worked at my last two years of HS, I'd own at least half a dozen by now. My sister took a while to get to PhD, but she wanted college professor, and is at UH Clear Lake. The post-graduate degrees put you more in line with employers who are seeking either someone with that education, or someone who uses it in leu of experience. In (most) of the professional world, experience is the key. Once your foot is in the door, with the Bachelor's, you control your destiny. No doubt you've heard of Frank Lloyd Wright.

In 1886, at age 19, Wright was admitted to the University of Wisconsin–Madison as a special student. He worked under Allan D. Conover, a professor of civil engineering, before leaving the school without taking a degree; in 1955, the university presented Wright, then 88 years old, with an honorary doctorate of fine arts.
Thank you comment icon I've definitely heared of Frank Llyod Wright and a few months ago I got to see one of his houses in person since the owner was offering tours to people on my campus! I think I am going follow your advice and get my bachelor's then go to work, maybe after a few years of working I'll come back for my master's maybe not! Thank you for the help! Cedella
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Aric’s Answer

Hi Cedella,

Henry really got it right for you. Getting a Master's Degree opens up the chance for you to teach, which is a great opportunity! Plus, it won't affect your job prospects. People from different undergraduate backgrounds, like business, liberal arts, or math, can also pursue a Master's in Architecture and be in the same position as you when looking for jobs. You've got this! Good luck!
Thank you comment icon Thank you! I'm having a lot of fun in the major right now, especially our recent project! Since I'm not thinking of teaching I think I'll stick with a bachelor's for now and come back for a master's later if I feel up to it! :) Thank you again for the response Cedella
Thank you comment icon Great!! Good luck! Aric Gitomer
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Chanyapatch’s Answer

Recommend after finish bachelor's degree, you should look for a job and working at least 3-5 years for keeping your experience then after that if you can manage your time, recommend continuing master's degree level for upgrade your education level for new thing and knowledge or learning about new technoligy.
Thank you comment icon Yes! I think that's what I'm going to do, since most of the responses mention that having a master's allows you to teach as well and that's not a priority of mine right now, I'll definitely get my bachelor's and then start working! Thank you! :) Cedella
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