*Article contributed by Jade Sohn.
There are approximately 107,400 architects currently in the United States, and there is a fast-growing demand for more of these professionals. Architects have several avenues to pursue, and it’s a lucrative business. But becoming an architect takes some planning and forethought.
Professional liability insurance
The job of an architect, as with any other job, involves some risk that could end up in a lawsuit – even if they were not at fault. For example, faulty costs, a delay in construction, and negligence on the part of a contractor working on the project can end in a lawsuit against the architect. Architect’s professional liability insurance protects architects from claims and expensive litigation. The insurance saves the architect time and money and lets them work on several projects simultaneously.
Studying architecture to become an architect
State architecture boards require that candidates complete a 5-year Bachelor of Architecture program from an accredited university. A subsequent Masters of Architecture degree is not mandatory, but an option to pursue after an undergrad program, for better prospects.
The next step – an internship
The National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) requires that all architect graduates complete 5,600 training hours under the Intern Development Program (IDP) – under the superintendence of a licensed architect. The internship must cover important aspects of architecture, including programming, zoning requirements, contract negotiations, site analysis, and project management.
Architecture examinations
Once the internship is completed, architecture graduates must take up the Architect Registration Examination (ARE), which is made up of seven papers that extensively cover all the important facets of architecture. The exam must be taken up in the candidate’s home state, as it is a state requirement.
The final steps to becoming an architect
The final steps to become an architect is to apply for an architect license. The application must also carry proof of an architect degree (this is the basic qualification; if candidates have completed other architect programs, those details must be submitted as well) and proof of internship.
A quick note – it is possible to become an architect with an architect degree, but this is a challenging prospect, and the requirements for this vary from state to state. It would also require several years of practice as well as meeting strict jurisdictional criteria over and above an internship program.
Moving ahead with an architect license
Architects typically join a large firm or work out of a home office. While both these options are lucrative, architects who are associated with large firms tend to make more money. The amount of exposure in various architecture fields and years of experience are determining factors regarding pay. Also, architects who specialize in eco-friendly designs and healthcare facilities have better job opportunities.
*Article contributed by Jade Sohn.