22 Careers to Pursue with a Degree in Architecture

Have you ever been awestruck by the magnificence of those tall skyscrapers and wondered at the brilliance of the mind that construed them? Becoming an Architect does that - it takes your breath away by the sheer creativity. 

The world of Architecture is not limited to only becoming an Architect. It opens up a whole new arena of possibilities and exhilarating opportunities as there are various types of Architecture jobs to pore over. 

So let's discuss what Architecture is all about and the list of careers in Architecture you can explore after your graduation.

What is Architecture?

"Architecture is the learned game, correct and magnificent, of forms assembled in the light" - Le Corbusier. 

True to these words, you can not define Architecture within a format, for its perception differs among people.

But in conventional terms, Architecture is the study of designing and constructing buildings with a sense of aesthetics. Most often, it includes designing, selecting decorations and furnishings, landscaping, remodelling existing structures, restoring dilapidated buildings, and overseeing construction. 

Architecture is not just an art of creation but also a science of experimentation. There are three basic rules of Architecture that every Architect follows closely: Firmness, Commodity, and Delight. 

Firmness refers to the structural integrity and longevity of the building. Commodity refers to the functionality of the building constructed. Delight refers to the appealing visuals and the vibes it sends off to the onlookers. 

A person with exceptional drawing, designing, and creative skills can find alluring career opportunities in Architecture. They can find a range of Architecture job opportunities right from Landscape Architect jobs to Industrial Designer, and Interior Decorator. 

Architecture Courses after 12th:

For those confused over selecting a stream of study, taking up Architecture courses after 12th grade would be an ideal option. Here is a list of courses offered to students who want to explore career opportunities in Architecture:

Certification Course: 

Duration: 6 Months

Courses: 

• Certificate Course in 3D Architectural Visualization 
• Certificate Course in 3D Interior Design Visualization

Diploma Level:

Duration: 3 Years

Courses: 

• Diploma in Architecture and Design
• Diploma in Architecture Engineering
• Diploma in Construction Technology
• Diploma in Architectural Assistantship
• Diploma in Construction Management 

Undergraduate Level:

Postgraduate Level:

Duration: 2 Years

Courses:

• Master of Architecture (M.Arch)
• Master of Architecture (M.Arch) in Conservation and Restoration
• Master of Architecture (M.Arch) in Architectural History and Theory
• Master of Architecture (M.Arch) in Landscape Design
• Master of Technology (M.Tech) in Construction Engineering and Management

Since the admission is done via NATA entrance examination, students from any stream of study can pursue Architecture courses after 12th. 

Types of Architecture Jobs:

Depending on an Architect's area of specialization, there are multiple types of Architecture jobs that open a wide spectrum of Architecture job opportunities for them. Some of them are listed here:

• Residential Architecture
• Commercial Architecture
• Restorative Architecture
• Research Architecture
• Industrial Architecture
• Urban Planning
• Interior Designing 
• Landscape Architecture

List of Careers in Architecture:

With Architects donning the cap of designers, consultants, and much more, their profile is not confined to only acquiring Landscape Architect jobs. Here's a list of careers in Architecture that might help you pick your choice:

• Urban Planner: 

An Urban Planner is responsible for building sustainable smart cities due to rapid urbanization. They should be able to come up with a plan that reduces slum encroachment. As an Urban Planner, they predict the demographics of an environment and build cities accordingly.

• Landscape Architect:

A Landscape Architect designs parks and outdoor spaces of residential buildings, public buildings, recreational facilities, colleges, and other such open spaces. They plan the location and use Autocad software to design and create models of the project they undertake.  

• Graphic Designer:

A Graphic Designer uses mixed art to produce visual designs based on their client's requirements. These designs are used in digital marketing, advertisements, and publications. They use tools such as Adobe Photoshop, Canva, Inkscape, and Adobe illustrator to create novel designs.  

• Interior Designer:

An Interior Designer creates visually appealing spaces that are functional and efficient. They create customized products that go in line with their vision for a specified interior space. They use tools such as SketchUp, Planner 5D, Roomstyler, etc. to create their designs. 

• Restoration Architect:

A Restoration Architect preserves the heritage of historic buildings by restoring them. Sometimes they alter monuments to increase their longevity. Simply put, a Restoration Architect is a historian, a creator, and an innovator. 

• Research Architect:

A Research Architect researches the process involved in the design and construction of buildings. They study the products used in an architectural design that ensures quality of the end result. They develop new architectural designs through intense research. 

• Framing Carpenter:

A Framing Carpenter builds the framework of proposed structures of a construction project. They use tools such as plumb bobs and levels to create perfectly vertical and horizontal structures. They read blueprints and interpret building safety regulations and codes. 

• Lighting Architect:

A Lighting Architect plans and designs the lighting systems of a building. Their area of expertise extends to lighting companies, retailspaces, and architecture firms. They ensure the lighting systems installed are visually fulfilling, and working efficiently.

• Architectural Draftsman:

An Architectural Draftsman develops technical drawings by interpreting the designs provided by Architects and Engineers. They use CAD software to build schematics and 3D designs. They incorporate building specifications, codes, and sites in their drawing. 

• Political Architect:

A Political Architect bears a moral responsibility by advocating political changes for the people. They are Architectural Activists voicing their opinions through modern art. They utilize public spaces to showcase their political stand. 

• Space Architect:

A Space Architect builds robotic rovers and space probes for all space-related missions. They build living and working environments in space research facilities. They are involved in base design, launch plan and construction that require knowledge of extreme environment conditions. 

• Computer-Aided Design (CAD) Designer:

They design complex layouts using CAD software. They produce drawings that complies with the standards of the industry or company they design for. They work with the project team to execute projects on time and within the budget proposed. 

• Architectural Illustrator:

An Architectural Illustrator converts complex three dimensional objects into relatable two dimensional images. They use different art forms to capture minute details of a structural design. They use SketchUp software to create architectural renderings. 

• Industrial Designer:

An Industrial Designer designs and develops commercial, industrial, and consumer products. They ensure the products are designed for both small-scale and large-scale production. They take up product research to analyze the functionality and commercial value of the product.

• Furniture Designer:

A Furniture Designer designs furniture and other craft products on a large or small scale production. They constantly study new designs released in the market to improve their skill. They choose appropriate furniture materials to ensure the durability of the product. 

• Architectural Historian:

An Architectural Historian specializes in disseminating information on historical monuments and buildings. Also known as "Conservation Architects", they are involved in preserving the interiors of historic buildings. They undertake historic material analysis and architectural paint research.

• Structural Designer:

A Structural Designer determines the aesthetics, functionality, and framework of monuments and buildings. They analyze the stability, strength and rigidity of the buildings constructed. They create digital blueprints and drawings of construction projects such as bridges and buildings. 

• Residential Architect:

A Residential Architect specializes in the design and planning of residential buildings. They determine the functionality and spatial needs of a residential project. They design the layout, draft measurements, and work with Civil Engineers to implement the architectural design. 

• Commercial Architect:

A Commercial Architect plans and designs commercial buildings such as retail shops, high rise buildings, and other non-residential buildings. They have sound knowledge of commercial building codes. They abide by the safety regulations involved in the construction. 

• Sustainable/ Green Design Architect:

A Sustainable/ Green Design Architect builds eco-friendly and energy efficient buildings. They use sustainable construction materials and green building technologies to create such revolutionary edifices. They develop structures that are sustainable and pleasing to the eyes. 

• Extreme Architect:

An Extreme Architect designs and constructs structures in areas with extreme climatic conditions. They are specialized in understanding the variations in the local environment. They are equipped to deal with unconventional problems arising from natural disasters. 

• Building Information Modelling (BIM) Architect:

A BIM Architect specializes in using the BIM software to model the information of the building under construction. They use software like Revit, and Archicad to create 3-D models. They follow the International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC). 

Conclusion:

The field of Architecture extends beyond design and construction. Those who want to tone down their field work can enter into research or teaching. Experienced Architects can work from the comfort of their home by offering their services as a freelancer. 

Becoming an Architect is a highly rewarding as well as an interesting job. The list of career opportunities in Architecture is boundless. Let your buildings be as high as your imagination.