If you have a creative bent of mind, an artistic hand, and can handle a decent amount of math and geometry, then a career in architecture is just perfect for you! Architecture is a creative and fulfilling profession that requires a combination of innovative thinking, practical skills and technological expertise.
There is a growing need today for qualified architects who can contribute to India’s built environment by creating sustainable, green buildings as well as conserving the architectural heritage of our country. A degree in architecture earned abroad will give you the much-needed international perspective, an exposure to global trends and hands-on training to make a real difference in the industry.
Why study architecture?
Architects work with clients, contractors, engineers, government bodies and specialists such as engineers, to design all aspects of our built environment. Because of their ability to design and their extensive knowledge of construction, architects' skills are in demand in all areas of property, construction and design.
Whether it is to design energy-efficient buildings, conserve old buildings, redevelop parts of our towns and cities, or manage a construction programme, a qualification in architecture will provide the perfect foundation for your career.
There are several different study options in the field of architecture. You can either enrol in a Bachelor or Master of Architecture program, or you can complete a undergraduate degree in a related field such as mathematics, engineering, or even art. On completion of your undergraduate degree, you could then go on to graduate school and join a Master of Architecture programme. You can speak to professional architects you know in your city about the type of training they would recommend.
What do the courses teach you?
An undergraduate degree in Architecture aims at producing confident and independent designers who can make valuable contributions in the flied of architecture and the built environment.
In the first year of study, you will learn the fundamentals of architectural design including designing three-dimensionally, in context to scale, and developing an architectural brief. Design skills are usually supported by representational techniques such as architectural drawing, model making and graphic representation.
In some institutes, the courses also introduce you to architectural history and the architect's role in society. You also learn to analyse architectural sites and find out how to ensure the environmental sustainability of architectural projects.
During the second and third years of study, more complex projects are undertaken. You are exposed to building law, construction technology, basic contract management procedures, etc. You can choose to specialise in the area that interests you most, such as landscape architecture or interior architecture.
At the masters level, you can pick an area of concentration like Urban Design or Sustainable Design.
Most courses in the USA and the UK are taught by practising architects,interior designers and interior architects which means you are exposed to the latest trends and contemporary issues in the industry. Many leading universities have collaborated with cultural institutions and businesses in their regions to give students an opportunity to work on live projects.
Before you enrol in an architecture course, always make sure that it meets the criteria established by the country where you plan to live and work. It’s advisable to choose a course/university that is accredited by a national or international organisation in the field of architecture. For example, courses in the UK are accredited by the Royal Institute of British Architects or The Architect's Journal.
Entry requirements
For a bachelor’s degree, you need to have completed year 12 of your studies, and for a master’s degree, a bachelor’s degree in either architecture or related field will be required.
Apart from these, there will be English language requirements which you will need to satisfy to pursue a degree abroad. Contact the universities directly for specific entry requirements.
Career opportunities available
The study of architecture provides direct entry into professional practice. Architects can be employed in general practice or choose to specialise. Some of the specialisations available are urban development, commercial, industrial and institutional developments, historic building conservation and housing renovation.
Architects work in advisory roles with individuals, property owners and developers, local authorities and commercial organisations.
Reuse and regeneration of the cultural heritage in built form is an expanding area and there is a growing need for architects to act as consultants between local or regional communities and planners or government.