What Is Architecture?
Architecture is both the process and the product of planning, designing, and constructing buildings or other structures. Architectural works, in the material form of buildings, are often perceived as cultural symbols and as works of art.
Is Architecture School Challenging?
Many people in the architecture industry have not had it easy, and they won’t hesitate to remind you of their very lengthy path. Many people may try to crush your aspirations of being an architect. Although it’s simple to slide into narcissism, do your best to avoid going too far.
Is Math Required For Architecture?
Is math challenging in architecture? The arithmetic needed for architecture is generally not too challenging. You won’t need to pass a test in advanced calculus to work in the field; instead, you’ll need to be able to do operations like addition and multiplication as well as create and solve equations.
How To Become An Architect In South Africa
Essential Information
Architects plan structures suitable for people to live, work, shop and worship; they are often involved in the design of building complexes and their surroundings. They may design entire neighborhoods or buildings that become cultural monuments.
The education requirements to become an architect include a 5-year professional bachelor’s degree in architecture, though a graduate degree may also be acceptable. Architects also need to be licensed.
| Required Education | Bachelor of Architecture or Master of Architecture |
| Other Requirements | Internship, state licensure |
| Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)* | 1%(for all architects, except landscape and naval) |
| Median Salary (May 2019)* | R 1230689.60 (for architects, except landscape and naval) |
Educational Requirements for an Architect
Most states require architects to be trained in a program approved by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). These programs generally result in a Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.), Master of Architecture (M.Arch.), Ph.D. in Architecture or Doctor of Architecture (D.Arch.).
Bachelor of Architecture
B.Arch. programs last five years and focus on architectural theory, structural design and construction methodology. Courses generally cover topics like environmental design, architectural documentation and universal design for the disabled.
Students also receive instruction in the use of drafting tools and computer-aided design and drafting software. Some programs combine classroom and design studio work with paid, professional work experience.
Master of Architecture
Some M.Arch. programs accept students holding a bachelor’s degree in any field, while others require a bachelor’s degree in architectural studies or a related field. NAAB-approved master’s programs can take 1-5 years to complete based on a student’s previous architectural education.
Like undergraduate architectural programs, M.Arch. programs can incorporate paid, professional work in the field, as well as faculty-supervised studio work. Courses focus on design, engineering and project management.
Some institutions offer a post-professional M.Arch. Applicants must have a B.Arch. or M.Arch. in order to be considered for admission. This program is an advanced research degree, and students may research areas such as urbanism and architecture or ecology and architecture.
Doctor of Architecture and Ph.D. in Architecture
According to National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB), the only accredited D.Arch. program is offered by University of Hawaii – Manoa. A D.Arch. is a seven year program that admits students with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in the field;
however, it offers a combination of undergraduate and graduate study, which allows students straight out of high school to enroll. D. Arch. is a professional program.
A Ph.D. in Architecture is not a professional degree, but it can lead to research, consulting or teaching positions. Ph.D. in Architecture feature advanced study of architectural theory and research methodology.
Students may concentrate in a specific area, such as sustainability and building science. Students may be required to submit a dissertation basis on original research at the end of the program.
Architectural Internship
After graduating from an NAAB-approved program, aspiring architects might have to complete an internship approved by the Intern Development Program (IDP) in order to meet state licensure requirements.
The National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) oversees the IDP to ensure that interns receive specific training in construction documents, schematic design and other relevant areas (www.ncarb.org). Interns are expected to maintain work reports that document their experience.
