To become a building architect, a minimum of a bachelor's degree and licensure is required but a master's degree in architecture may be a better choice, especially if a professional has a bachelor's degree in an unrelated field. Any degree in architecture should be awarded by a university that is accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board.
Essential Information
Building architects design private and public buildings that are aesthetically pleasing, safe and functional. Architects are usually involved in a project from design to completion of the building. Minimum requirements for an architect are a bachelor's degree and certification that meets state requirements.
| Required Education | Bachelor of Architecture; Master of Science in Architecture optional |
| Other Requirements | Licensure requirements vary by state; prospective architects must pass the Architect Registration Exam |
| Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)* | 1% growth |
| Median Salary (2019)* | $80,750 annually |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Education Requirements
Nearly every state requires a building architect to have a professional degree that is awarded from a degree program accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). Many architects have a Bachelor of Architecture, which is offered by 123 schools of architecture, according to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov). Some architects choose to earn a master's degree, especially if they earned a bachelor's degree in an unrelated field. Graduates of architecture bachelor's degree programs are often required to gain experience by completing training programs before they're allowed to sit for licensing examinations.
Bachelor of Architecture
A Bachelor of Architecture program teaches students the design theory and history of architecture. Technological workshops teach students freehand drawing, computer-aided design (CAD) and research writing. Students design models and are assessed on the aesthetic qualities and structural integrity of their designs. They also learn about trends in architecture, including regional and historical styles. A professional architecture degree program can be completed in five years.
Master of Science in Architecture
A Master of Science in Architecture program gives students the opportunity to build on the skills and knowledge they learned in their Bachelor of Science program in architecture. The B.S. program will have covered many principles of architecture, but does not qualify graduates to work as architects. Most master's degree programs are based on research and theory of architecture. Topics include building science, building sustainability, design theory, environmental design and methods of design.
Career Information
Building architects can expect to see job growth of 1% through the 2019-2029 decade, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov). Growth could be spurred by an increase in population, especially in the southern states, which is projected to occur as baby boomers retire and relocate to warmer climates. In 2019, the BLS reported that architects earned a median annual income of $80,750.
Architects continue to be in demand as populations continue to grow. To become an architect, it is better to pursue a master's degree in architecture rather than stop after completing a bachelor's program, as graduate training vastly improves employment prospects. An architect's responsibilities include design, development, and delivery and must focus on the artistic as well as structural elements of the building.
