Architects often earn low salaries despite their highly trained and specialized skillset, an issue both in the UK and globally.
Thankfully, the industry is finally realizing that unionizing is the most effective way to secure a fair salary. This could benefit both employees and firms.
Education
In order to become an architect, you must possess at least a bachelor’s degree. Some states also require you to complete an internship and pass a certification exam before beginning your professional practice.
Architecture is a highly technical field, so you must have some background in engineering and construction to be successful. Additionally, excellent communication skills are essential as you will frequently collaborate with other architects, engineers, and professionals in the industry.
Undergraduate architecture degrees typically cover a range of subjects, from history and theory to computer-aided design tutorials. Furthermore, students often participate in field trips to famous buildings or sites of architectural significance. Assessment for students typically involves essays and assignments; additionally, they take part in critique sessions where they present their work to tutors and other students for feedback.
Licensing
Architects are professionals who apply their skill and expertise to design and plan buildings. Their projects range from private residences to small to medium-sized commercial establishments.
To become an architect, you must earn a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. After graduation, you must complete either an internship or training period and pass the Architect Registration Exam in order to receive your license and begin practicing architecture.
A license grants you independence and shows hiring managers that you possess the knowledge, abilities, and experience to do your job safely. It also serves to reassure clients and the public that you are an established expert in your field.
Depending on the state you work in, you may be required to obtain continuing education credits every two years. This could involve additional architecture school classes, workshops, self-study courses or conferences.
Experience
Architects may find employment in private practices, government agencies or for construction and manufacturing firms. They also have the option to pursue self-employment as consultants or work in other related fields.
An architecture student’s experience during their studies can increase their salary upon graduation, as it takes a considerable amount of time to acquire the professional skills and qualifications necessary for architects.
The amount architects earn is determined by their job responsibilities, years of experience and where they work. For instance, a senior architect with 20 years’ worth of expertise could earn up to $70,000 annually.
Industry
Architects can work from home or a commercial office, but they typically spend time away from their desk meeting with clients and visiting construction sites. In certain instances, architects may need to work on weekends or evenings if deadlines are pressing.
As an architect, there are numerous career prospects and salary increases as you gain experience and build up a clientele. Additionally, architects have the option of working for themselves or taking on individual contracts to supplement their income.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that architect salaries nationwide have increased year after year. At present, the median annual wage stands at $80,750.
