Architecture

Overview

People need places in which to live, work, play, learn, worship, meet, govern, shop and eat. Architects are responsible for designing these places, whether they are private or public; indoors or out; rooms, buildings, or complexes. Architects are licensed professionals trained in the art and science of building design who develop the concepts for structures and turn those concepts into images and plans.

Architects create the overall look of buildings and other structures, but the design of a building involves far more than its appearance. Buildings also must be functional, safe, and economical and must suit the needs of the people who use them. Architects consider all of these factors when they design buildings and other structures.

Department Website

School of Architecture

Job Titles

Architect Draftsperson Preservationist
Architectural Engineer Environmental Engineer Production Designer
Architectural Historian Facility Manager Project Manager*
Architectural Writer/ Journalist Illustrator Real Estate Appraiser
Art Director Industrial Designer Set Designer
Building Contractor Industrial Engineer Surveyor
Building Designer Interior Designer/ Decorator Teacher/Professor*
Building Inspector Landscape Architect Urban/ Regional Planner
Cartographer Marine Architect
Civil Engineer Mechanical Engineer

Positions that require additional education or training are indicated by a (*). All states and the District of Columbia require architects to be licensed. Licensing requirements include a professional degree in architecture, a period of practical training or internship, and a passing score on all parts of the Architect Registration Examination. Most states also require some form of continuing education to keep a license, and some additional states are expected to adopt mandatory continuing education. Requirements vary by state but usually involve additional education through workshops, formal university classes, conferences, self-study courses, or other sources. (Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook)

Job qualifications are based not only on degree program, but on skills and experience. Students should seek out as many experiential opportunities in their fields of interest as possible, including Co-op and internships.

Employers

Architecture Firms Individual Homeowners
Construction Companies Manufacturers
Design Firms Preservation and Restoration Firms
Engineering Firms Real Estate Developers
Facilities Management Companies Research Institutions
Federal, Local and State Government Transportation Companies
Historic Preservation Society Universities and Colleges

Internships

As part of the process of becoming a licensed architect students follow:

  • The Intern Development Program (IDP) structures the multiyear transition from architecture student to licensed professional.
  • Typically internships in this field require students to be in the third year of undergraduate study or a master’s student. Students may however find internships in related fields.

Co-ops

For more information, please visit the department’s website.
Students enrolled in the College of Professional Studies may click here for co-op and internship information.

Careers

The following resources include various websites and campus resources that will aid you in exploring this career field and industry.

Career & Job Websites

Campus Organizations & Activities

*For additional student organizations click here.
*For additional student activities click here.

Professional Associations

Find valuable industry information, job sites, and professionals in the field you may contact for informational interview requests and networking opportunities.

Social Media

Sample LinkedIn.com Groups providing resources such as industry trends, company information, job listings, and networking opportunities within the field: