How to Become an Architect
Did you always dream of building your own house? Have you always been fascinated by skyscrapers and interesting buildings? If you’re wondering how to become an architect and turn your passion into a career, this is the guide for you. We explore everything you need to know about this profession and provide you with answers to questions such as “how long does it take to become an architect?” or “what degree do you need to be an architect?”.
What Is an Architect?
Architects are professionals in charge of guiding the construction of buildings from the planning and technical drawings to overseeing the safe fabrication of construction projects. Your job will be to combine creativity with the precise use of math, physics, and engineering. As an architect, you’ll work on the design and construction of many types of buildings and spaces. Here are the most common types of architects you could become:
- Residential architect - plans private homes and real estate developments.
- Commercial architect - designs skyscrapers or any office, retail, or restaurant space.
- Green design architect - specializes in creating sustainable and environmentally conscious buildings.
- Industrial architect - designs warehouses, logistic centers, and factories focusing on efficiency and functionality.
- Urban designer architect - works with city planning to create new districts and public spaces to be enjoyed by everybody.
- Landscape architect - designs outdoor spaces like public parks, gardens, walkways, and more.
- Interior architect - works on structural renovations and ensures the best use of space.
What Do Architects Do?
Architects follow their projects from beginning to end. Although your exact responsibilities might vary, tasks you’ll perform in most architect jobs include:
- listen to your client's needs to understand the construction requirements
- research, design, and plan buildings based on client briefs
- prepare drawings and specifications with different software and equipment
- provide costs and project timeline estimates
- collaborate with multi-discipline teams including engineers, project managers, construction workers, and all parties involved in your projects
- ensure specific standards, building codes, guidelines and regulations are respected
- visit construction sites to oversee progress and advise
How to Become an Architect
Now that you know what exactly an architect does, to understand how to become an architect we also need the answer to the question “what is required to become an architect?”. First, you’ll need to complete your architect education with a five-year bachelor’s degree in Architecture from a school accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board.
During these years, you’ll learn all about the types of architects you could become, architectural history, practices, design, styles, and technologies, as well as the math, physics, and engineering necessary for this profession. The next step in your journey to becoming an architect is to complete a three-year paid internship. Depending on your state, you can start this training period either while you’re still in school or once you graduate.
Firms that are part of the Architectural Experience Program are the most popular choices among students, as the program provides good guidance to new grads. As an intern, you’ll learn firsthand how to create drawings, and models, how to choose building materials, and much more, while a senior architect supervises and finalizes your work.
Passing your state’s Architect Registration Examination and obtaining your architect license is the last formal phase before you enter the profession. Keep in mind, however, that in most states you’ll have to take courses to keep your knowledge up to date as well as renew your license periodically. Finally, remember that to become a successful architect you also need certain skills including creativity, organization, problem-solving, communication, and teamwork.
How Much Do Architects Make?
An architect’s starting salary is $58,666 per year, but the average architect salary sits at $79,789. Consider this figure as an approximation only since your wage will depend on various factors such as your experience, qualifications, the size and specialization of your firm, and your location.
For instance, based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics data, architects make the most in the following industries:
- non-depository credit intermediation
- insurance carriers
- scientific research and development services
- management, scientific, and technical consulting services
- credit intermediation and related activities
On another note, the states paying the highest architect salaries are:
If you’re here reading this guide on how to become an architect, we’re sure you also want to know how much you can make as an architect in your city. Simply head to Monster's Salary Calculator to find out. This tool will also show you the salaries for similar jobs, as well as the next potential steps to advance your career.
How to Find Architect Jobs
Once you’ve followed the steps for how to become an architect, the first thing you need to do to land a job is to write a strong architect resume. Use a simple yet effective layout to help your resume stand out to a recruiter’s eye. Clear paragraphs, strategic use of spacing, bullet points, and bold text to highlight industry keywords are all extremely useful.
Always pair your resume with a cover letter. In this document, you can include all the important additional information that qualifies for the role. Just like for your resume, remember to target your cover letter to the specific company and position you are applying for.
Where Does an Architect Work?
Architects can work as freelancers, in private practices, or be hired as employees in architectural firms. Based on the type of tasks you take care of, you could work from home, in an office, or on-site.
Looking for the industries with the highest levels of employment for architects? Check out:
- architectural, engineering, and related services
- residential building construction
- the federal executive branch
- non-residential building construction
As far as locations go, architects have excellent employment prospects in:
In particular, the U.S. metro areas with the highest number of architect jobs are:
Design the Career You Want Thanks to Monster
Now that you know how to become an architect and your architect education requirements are all met, it’s time to jump into your job search. Set up a free account on Monster, upload your freshly updated resume, and turn on customized alerts. Plus, as a Monster member, partner recruiters and companies can contact you directly with exciting opportunities.