Architecture

What to expect

Getting a degree in architecture

What to expect

What does it take to design and build a masterpiece? Well, you will need plenty of inspiration and creativity, but, first of all, you will need a qualification in architecture.

Architecture is a fascinating field that blends art and culture, science and technology and even elements of business. Unfortunately, for many, architecture courses don’t generally live up to expectations.

Even so, there is no doubt that once they qualify, architects are able to have some of the most rewarding, creative and varied careers around.

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Getting a degree in architecture

Visit the University Ratings section for architecture course ratings.

Courses and specialisations

There are two types of architecture degrees: a five-year version and a two-part version that begins with an undergraduate ‘pre-professional qualification’ in architecture, arts, applied science, design or environmental design with an architecture major, followed by a specialist qualification in architecture.

Core units tend to predominate in architecture programs, although there may be some room for electives. But these units cover everything from engineering and structural design, building and project management, to graphics and design. Apart from the usual lectures and tutorials you can expect to spend plenty of time in the architectural design studio, and on practical assignments outside the university.

And if you would like to study even more widely, consider a double degree — you could combine architecture with landscape architecture, construction or law, to name just a few.

Getting in

Architecture is a competitive field. The usually poor graduate ratings certainly don’t deter architecture aspirants from applying. Students queue up, which causes the cut-offs to remain high. Most architecture courses require at least some competence in maths.

Where to study

Degrees in architecture are offered at fewer than 20 universities around the country. Although there might be one close to home, given the competitive entry standards, you should be prepared to move if this is your dream field.

What to look for

There are several things to consider when you’re shopping around for an architecture course. The first is whether the course is on the list of accredited degrees (check out the Architects Accreditation Council of Australia website listed below).

You should also find out how many opportunities for practical learning each course includes. Just like doctors and lawyers, architects need to gain practical experience in their field before they are allowed to practise. In fact, two years of practical experience under supervision (one of them after the degree is complete) are required before you can sit the Architectural Practice Exam in order to practise.

Many universities should and do incorporate work experience in their architecture curriculum. Some departments either recommend or require that students take time out for a stint in professional practice before continuing to the second phase of the degree (in a two-part course) or before they finish the degree.

Careers for architecture degree graduates

Since graduates are required to do this kind of internship following completion of their degrees, a clear majority — more than in any other field — wind up in a private practice after graduation. Most architects stay in private practices, sometimes in their own business or partnerships.

Once you qualify as an architect in Australia, your degree should take you anywhere you want to go. Australian qualifications in architecture have always been well recognised, but the advent of the APEC Architecture register has made working overseas much easier. Qualified architects in Australia and other registered countries can apply to practise in Canada, China, Hong Kong, Japan, Republic of Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, the Philippines, Singapore, Taipei, Thailand and the United States.

Architecture is a fascinating field that blends art and culture, science and technology and even elements of business. Unfortunately, for many, architecture courses don’t generally live up to expectations. Graduates are typically less satisfied with their courses than those studying in other fields. In the 2009 national Course Experience Questionnaire survey graduates reported low levels of satisfaction with their teachers and with the
skills they gained.

Since graduates are required to do a kind of internship following completion of their degrees the majority (65 per cent in 2009) end up working for private practices. Employment prospects are currently below average, with 31 per cent of graduates looking for work in 2009. However, nearly half of the architecture graduates in 2008 went on to complete further study (46 per cent). Starting salaries are well below average, at just
$36,513, but bear in mind that salaries go up once students are registered practitioners.

For more information

For more information about this field have a look at The Royal Australian Institute of Architects website . For details about registration, check out the Architects Accreditation Council of Australia .

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