Congratulations! You’ve completed your Architecture degree. You may be extremely excited to take up your first job. But before you do, you should complete certain other mandatory pre-requisites that will give you the right to work in your State as an architect. In this blog, you will know the Steps To Follow Once You Have An Architect Degree In Your Hands.
1. Take up the NCARB-run IDP
The NCRAB’s Intern Development Program must be completed before architecture graduates can take-up their licensing examination. You are expected to complete 5600 hours of training in various facets of architecture, by training under a qualified professional architect.
2. Pass the ARE® examination
The 6-parter Architect Registration Examination® 5.0 is the official architecture licensing exam in the US. It is conducted state-wise and you must pass in all 6 divisions to get the license.
3. Pursue the NCARB certification
If you’d like to have the option of practicing outside your state (or even outside the US – in New Zealand, Australia, Mexico & Canada), you must pass the NCARB certification. This certificate allows you to seek a reciprocal license to work in other states within the US.
4. Consider purchasing architects professional liability insurance
The job of an architect can be fraught with challenges and risks, particularly when running your own business. You or a member of your team may commit a mistake or the client may be unhappy with the service you provide. If they initiate legal proceedings against you, you risk losing your reputation and your personal finances in lieu of claims.
Architects professional liability insurance protects you from all this, by indemnifying you against any loss, error or risk that occurred due to your neglections. Check this website for details.
Different career options to consider in the field of architecture
Once you’ve done all of the above, you are eligible to apply for a job in an architecture firm. Some of the different specializations you can consider are:
1. Residential architecture
As a residential architect, you will get the opportunity to construct homes, condos, apartment complexes and other non-commercial properties.
2. Industrial architecture
Industrial architects specialize in developing large, industrial complexes that can support a variety of operations. They work towards building smart industries that offer high operational efficiency.
3. Heritage/Restoration architecture
As a restoration architect, you will be entrusted with the responsibility of maintaining and strengthening the crumbling facades of world heritage sites and other national monuments.
4. BIM architecture
As a BIM architect, you will specialize in 3D modelling of buildings, prior to construction. You will work with various other people like material manager, structural engineers, landscape architects and more, to help fine-tune the building design and prevent structural issues.
5. Sustainability architecture
Pollution and climate change are causing great havoc to the world. As a sustainability architect, your job will be to design green buildings, who have a very small carbon footprint and which can be built and maintained in an eco-friendly manner.
6. Urban planner
With cities growing at such a tremendous pace, there is a need for architects who can plan efficient and smart cities. As an urban planner, you will work with the city authorities to redesign the city to meet new-age challenges and needs.
7. Interior design
Interior designers are one of the most-coveted professionals in the field. You will get the opportunity to design homes of all shapes and sizes in very creative and personal ways.
8. Landscape architecture
As a landscape architect, you will work with commercial, industrial and residential builders to plan and develop beautiful outdoor spaces. You can also work with the city authorities to design public spaces that are green and smartly planned.
