2 answers
Terra
Student
Hendersonville, Tennessee
1
Question
Asked
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Where do I start to be an architect, how do I start, and where do I start?
Architects are professionals trained in the art and science of building design.
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2 answers
Marshall Main
Director, Manager, Videographer
75
Answers
Raleigh, North Carolina
Updated
Marshall’s Answer
Terra- That is a great question. One of the easiest first things you can do is go to your local library and get some books on the subject. You can get a lot of information here. This will help you decide what area of the field you want to specialize in.
There will be some technology (software) you will want to learn at some point, knowing what tools are out there is a good idea. Some of these are free, but you will need to do your research and read first.
You can also look in your local area for companies that do this type of work. If they have an internship program and you are old enough to work, this will allow you to be around those that do that kind of work and you can get a little experience. You may be getting coffee and answering phones, but you will be able to observe and hopefully maybe find a mentor along the way.
Then the next thing to do is look for colleges that have a program that specializes in Architectural Design and specialize in your desired field.
There will be some technology (software) you will want to learn at some point, knowing what tools are out there is a good idea. Some of these are free, but you will need to do your research and read first.
You can also look in your local area for companies that do this type of work. If they have an internship program and you are old enough to work, this will allow you to be around those that do that kind of work and you can get a little experience. You may be getting coffee and answering phones, but you will be able to observe and hopefully maybe find a mentor along the way.
Then the next thing to do is look for colleges that have a program that specializes in Architectural Design and specialize in your desired field.
Mónica Butler Martínez
Product Designer (software)
1
Answer
Ocean Springs, Mississippi
Updated
Mónica’s Answer
My husband is an architect and I asked him to write an answer for you. Here's what he shared:
"Great question and one that I had when considering a career in Architecture. You may not realize it but you may have already started by showing interest and wanting to seek information. As an architecture student and as a professional, you will need to conduct research on your own and I suggest you start in the local library, the internet (although it can be overwhelming), and a local architecture firm or college. Another good resource for prospective architecture students is the local American Institute of Architects (AIA) which has a wealth of information on becoming an architect. I suggest trying out drafting and art classes while in school so you have an idea of what to expect and also have work you can use to prepare your portfolio to get into Architecture School. Pay special attention to classes like math, science, and art while you don't have to be an expert in all three it will help if you have a general understanding of these courses.
Once you decide Architecture is what you want to study, apply to a college that has an accredited program. Typically, to become an architect you will need to complete a 4-5 year bachelor's degree in Architecture after which if you want to practice independently, you will need to become licensed by taking a series of exams or you can work for another architect or firm."
First Graduate from Highscool and aplly to an architecture school
Complete a professional degree in architecture (either a Bachelor's or a Master’s degree)
Become licensed to practice architecture
"Great question and one that I had when considering a career in Architecture. You may not realize it but you may have already started by showing interest and wanting to seek information. As an architecture student and as a professional, you will need to conduct research on your own and I suggest you start in the local library, the internet (although it can be overwhelming), and a local architecture firm or college. Another good resource for prospective architecture students is the local American Institute of Architects (AIA) which has a wealth of information on becoming an architect. I suggest trying out drafting and art classes while in school so you have an idea of what to expect and also have work you can use to prepare your portfolio to get into Architecture School. Pay special attention to classes like math, science, and art while you don't have to be an expert in all three it will help if you have a general understanding of these courses.
Once you decide Architecture is what you want to study, apply to a college that has an accredited program. Typically, to become an architect you will need to complete a 4-5 year bachelor's degree in Architecture after which if you want to practice independently, you will need to become licensed by taking a series of exams or you can work for another architect or firm."
Mónica recommends the following next steps: