Architects are involved in all phases of the construction process from the initial consultation to the design and construction of commercial, government, and residential buildings. It’s the responsibility of the architect to meet the client’s budget, requirements, and time table. In addition to designing a functional and safe structure that complies with local building codes, architects must also develop a creative, resourceful, and aesthetically pleasing solution.

Training to Become an ArchitectTo become a professional architect, students must complete a five-year Bachelor of Architecture degree that includes 150-170 credit hours of comprehensive coursework covering design, history, construction, urban planning, environmental studies, advanced calculus, and physics. Many universities also offer professional architecture degree programs at the graduate level to applicants with a well-rounded Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Art degree. In addition to a degree from an accredited program, professional architects much complete at least three years of work experience under a supervising architect before taking the Architect Registration Examination needed to become a state-licensed architect. Careers and Job Responsibilities for Architects

Although architects spend much of their time working in the office or design studio, their job responsibilities go far beyond drafting blueprints. Architects frequently visit construction sites and assist clients with negotiating bids, managing properties, and monitoring building progress. Architecture interns and new graduates typically work in design firms verifying building code requirements and assisting with drafting and rendering CAD designs and blueprints. Internships and professional positions at major architectural firms are limited and extremely competitive. Because establishing an architectural firm is so costly, more than one fifth of architects are self-employed.

Average Earnings for Architects

Entry-level positions and internships for graduates pay less than positions offered to professional architects, however, internships are an important step on the way to becoming an experienced professional. In 2008, the median annual salary for professional architects was approximately $70,000. On the low end, architects earn $40,000 with the highest paid architects bringing home more than $100,000. According to employment data, architectural positions are projected to grow faster than average over the next decade due to an increased need for public infrastructure, schools, elder care facilities, and retirement communities in the Sun Belt.