How to Become an Architect?
Learn the steps to become an architect, including eligibility, education, entrance exams, and career paths.
In this Career Outline
Introduction to Architect
"Architecture is a visual art, and the buildings speak for themselves." — Julia Morgan
Becoming an architect is a dream for many who envision creating beautiful and functional structures that shape our world. This guide will walk you through the journey of how to become an architect, from choosing the right courses after the 12th to navigating entrance exams and understanding career opportunities.
Steps to Become an Architect:
Step-1
Ensure you have completed your 12th grade with Mathematics as a compulsory subject. This is a mandatory requirement for pursuing architecture courses.
Step-2
Opt for a Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) program, which is typically a five-year degree course. Research and identify institutions providing certified architectural education programs.
Step-3
Prepare for and clear entrance exams such as the National Aptitude Test in Architecture (NATA) or JEE Main Paper 2. These exams assess your drawing and observation skills, sense of proportion, aesthetic sensitivity, and critical thinking ability.
Step-4
After clearing the entrance exams, enroll in a B.Arch program at a recognized institution. This program will cover various aspects of architecture, including design, construction, and project management.
Step-5
Gain practical experience through internships during your B.Arch course. Hands-on experience through internships bridges classroom learning with industry practice, fostering valuable professional connections.
Step-6
After completing your B.Arch, you need to get licensed to practice as an architect. This typically involves completing a period of practical training (internship) and passing the Architect Registration Examination (ARE).
Step-7
While not mandatory, pursuing a Master of Architecture (M.Arch) can help you specialize in a particular area of architecture and enhance your career prospects.
Eligibility Criteria
| Eligibility Criteria | Description |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Must have completed 10+2 with Mathematics as a compulsory subject |
| Educational Background | Higher Secondary (12th) with 50%+ from recognized board. |
| Undergraduate Degree | Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) |
| Postgraduate Degree | Master of Architecture (M.Arch) (optional for higher specialization) |
| Entrance Exams | NATA, JEE Main Paper 2, state-level exams |
- Must have at least 50% in 12th grade from a recognized board. Cut-off varies by college.
- No standardized Entrance exams after 12; it depends on the university.
- A B.Sc/B.A, diploma, or certification in architecture from a recognized institution is required.
- An M.Sc/M. A in Architecture is beneficial for advanced studies and higher qualifications.
Not eligible to pursue this career?
Find out different career options based on your current academic accomplishments. Enquire with our career experts and build a roadmap to your career success!
Tasks to perform as an Architect:
Knowledge & Skills Required
Architects require a diverse range of skills to excel in their positions. Here are the key knowledge areas and skills needed to excel in this field:
| Knowledge Required | |
|---|---|
| Essential for design calculations and structural analysis. | Understanding material properties and forces. |
| Core concepts of aesthetics and functional design. | Knowledge of local building regulations and standards. |
| Sustainable design practices and impact on the environment. | Proficiency in design software used for drafting and modeling. |
| Skills Required | |
|---|---|
| Creative Thinking | Problem-Solving |
| Technical Drawing | Communication Skills |
| Project Management | Analytical Skills |
| Time Management | Adaptability |
The Knowlegde and Skills don't intrigue you?
The reason is that your interests don't align with this career. Identify your interests and match them with careers that require those skills. This alignment will help you grow and succeed in your career faster than you might expect!
Job roles offered for an Architect:
Once you acquire the necessary qualifications to become an architect, numerous career opportunities are available:
Oversee large-scale construction projects such as industrial buildings, roadways, and bridges. Responsibilities include pre-planning, budgeting, contract negotiation, and staff organization.
Develop strategic electrical plans by analyzing operational needs, assessing current conditions, and preparing cost estimates.
Direct teams in designing and implementing manufacturing processes and machinery. Focus on improving processes, quality, and performance while solving technical issues.
Lead engineering teams, manage complex data, and develop new systems while ensuring compliance with documented methods.
Administer the mechanical engineering department, covering both operational and technological aspects, often leading projects under the guidance of a field engineer.
Not sure where you fit in?
With the wide variety of careers and job roles available, pinpointing the best option for you can be challenging. Thorough analysis and dedicated sessions can provide clarity on what to study, which industry and role to pursue, and the most suitable career path to follow.
Career Opportunities for an Architect:
Architects can opt for various fields of work in the companies listed below:
| AECOM | Philips | Flipkart |
| Larsen & Toubro | Architect Hafeez Contractor | Archkons |
| Sanon Sen & Associates | Span Consultants Private Limited | C.P. Kukreja Associates |
| Prem Nath & Associates | OCI Architects | VSA Architect |
| Edifice | SEMAC Private Limited | Manchanda Associates |
| Venkatraman Associates | Sompura Arts | Biplab Talapatra |
Colleges offering courses in Architect :
Here is the list of colleges offering the Best courses after 12th
:| Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur | Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee |
| National Institute of Technology, Kozhikode | School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi |
| College of Engineering, Trivandrum | School of Planning and Architecture, Bhopal |
| National Institute of Technology, Tiruchirappalli | Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi |
| School of Planning and Architecture, Vijayawada | Birla Institute of Technology, Ranchi |
End Note
Pursuing a career in architecture demands passion, imagination, and a robust academic background. For personalized Career counselling for students, reach out to our specialists at SetMyCareer. We offer expert guidance on your professional aspirations and assistance in charting your course to architectural success.
In this Career Outline
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