How do I get in?
To become a fully qualified architect takes seven years. This involves five years at university: a three-year degree plus a two-year diploma, followed by an additional two years training in a professional practice. Minimum course requirements are five GCSEs, including maths, English and two sciences, plus two A-levels in academic subjects.
What job could I do?
Architect - the role of an architect varies considerably between practices. The head architect of a company can seem more like a businessman, primarily trying to attract new clients. Not all architects spend their time designing new buildings; more staple work for smaller companies consists of house conversions etc
Project architect - the progect architect is responsible for the conceptual design, detailed design and project management for a particular building
Architectural technologist - an architectural technologist or technic ian assists an architect by providing expert advice about construction principals and specification of materials
Computer-aided design (CAD) technician - CAD programmes are now widely used in the architectural field. They enable the practice to produce a highly detailed three-dimensional computer image of a design. This can be rotated and viewed from any angle
Model-maker - architectural model-makers are commissioned to produce a scaled-down model of a building design. These can be as intricate as required and give the client a clearer idea of how the completed building will look
Perspective artist - a perspective artist, or illustrator, produces a full colour drawing of the design after completion - including people, cars and landscaping.
Pros and Cons?
Pros
Job satisfaction is high; seeing your design realised is rewarding
Your skills will help you design your own perfect home.
Cons
Job security is low as the building industry is sensitive to changes in the economy
Architects must compromise their designs to fit the client's vision
Careers in Sheffield Earning potential?
As with other professions an architect's salary varies from region to region and from practice to practice. Experience is everything and for a young architect the quality and variety of work undertaken during the first few years is more important than the salary. Trainee salaries start at £13,000 while an associate architect can expect to earn from £28,000 to £38,000 a year.
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