Architects

High School

To prepare for this career while in high school, take a college preparatory program that includes courses in English, mathematics, physics, art (especially freehand drawing), computer-aided design, social studies, history, and foreign languages. Courses in business also will be useful.

Postsecondary Training

Because most state architecture registration boards require a professional degree, high school students are advised, early in their senior year, to apply for admission to one of the 176 professional programs accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board. Competition to enter these programs is high. Grades, class rank, and aptitude and achievement scores count heavily in determining who will be accepted.

Most schools of architecture offer degrees through either a five-year bachelor's program or a three- or four-year master's program. The majority of architecture students seek out the bachelor's degree in architecture, going from high school directly into a five-year program. Though this is the fastest route, you should be certain that you want to study architecture. Because the programs are so specialized, it is difficult to transfer to another field of study if you change your mind. The master's degree option allows for more flexibility but takes longer to complete. In this case, students first earn a liberal arts degree then continue their training by completing a master's program in architecture. Visit Study Architecture (https://studyarchitecture.com/) for information and resources to plan your education.

A typical college architecture program includes courses in architectural history and theory, the technical and legal aspects of building design, science, computer-aided design techniques, and liberal arts.

Other Education or Training

The American Institute of Architects offers lectures, workshops, seminars, online courses, and other continuing education opportunities. Contact the institute for more information.