PROS

you can do what you love

Architecture is a passion. Becoming an architect is for people who can’t imagine doing anything else. If you’re a perfectionist and love to be creative, architecture might be for you. You can also make things real and tangible, which is very satisfying. You can express yourself through your work and implement your vision.

you do a lot of different things

You will never get bored as an architect. The projects are complex and you will perform all kinds of tasks. Furthermore, the field of architecture is always changing. Trends and technologies are constantly evolving. You’ll have to do some professional development to stay current, but that means you’ll always be learning.

architecture matters

You are making a difference with architecture. It may not be curing cancer, but it is giving people safe and healthy places to live and work. What you do also counts because you are responsible for keeping your buildings safe. Yes, it’s a lot of pressure, but isn’t that the case with all things worth doing?

CONS

Becoming an architect requires a lot of effort.

It takes a long time to become an architect. His training period is similar to that of other professions such as law and medicine. He at least he will take eight years to license him in the United States. First, he will need to earn an accredited degree in architecture, which is either a 5-year Bachelor of Architecture or a 2-3 year Master of Architecture. Then he must complete a program known as IDP (Intern Development Program). This will take at least 3 additional years to complete. During this time, he will work in an architecture office and gain professional experience. He must also pass the ARE (Architect Registration Examination). This is a 7 part exam that assesses your competency as an architect. After doing all this, you are finally an architect!

Hours and Pay

An architect’s salary isn’t bad, but if you compare it to professions with similar training and licensing requirements, it’s much less. According to Salary.com, the median income for architects is $42,000 to $113,000 depending on experience. Expect long hours and a lot of stress. This is a deadline driven profession.

Times are hard when the economy is down

Architecture and construction depend on the economy. When the economy is good, architecture is a lucrative profession. Businesses are growing and families are improving their homes. This means tons of new projects for architects. When the economy is bad, opportunities disappear and many architects are out of work.