Is Architecture Hard? Why choose Architecture as a Stream

Choosing the right stream for one’s career is a life-changing decision. Streams like architecture which are uniquely specialised often make one think of questions like; should I be an architect?  Is Architecture hard? Is Architecture for me? Is Architecture a good career? The article attempts to address these queries by focussing on architecture as a stream and answering a few questions.

Architecture as a stream involves planning and designing the infrastructure, including houses, factories, offices and other buildings. Apart from this, an architect’s job is also to determine the purpose and requirements of the structures and figure out the preliminary estimates on cost and construction time. It is a stream which functions on specifications such as scaled drawings and documents, creating contract documents for building contractors, and managing construction contracts by monitoring if the architectural plans are being followed.

What Does One Study in Architecture?

Architecture is a technical course which mainly focuses on the development of skills required to become an architect. Students pursue Bachelor of Architecture and further a Master of Technology or Master of Architecture to master the process of construction of buildings, complexes, highways, and civil construction of any kind. An architect’s skills comprise innovative ideas and analytical skills. Understanding the theory and practices of designing are one of the key requisites for the course study. One must be well-acquainted with commercial drawing techniques as well.

What Are the Subjects One Studies?

Architectural studies, which usually begin with a Bachelor of Architecture degree, comprise the following subjects:

  • Architecture Design
  • Building Construction
  • Theory of Structures
  • Building Management
  • History of architecture
  • Architectural Drawing
  • Computer & Software Training
  • Workshop Practice
  • Architectural appreciation
  • Design Applications

The programme also involves training and internship at government organisations or architectural firms to give students hands-on experience of the projects.

Architecture graduates tend to pursue M. Arch. (Master of Architecture) which focuses on specialisation in architecture, in a field of interest. Besides, some of the other popular and desirable postgraduate programmes are Postgraduate Diploma Programme in Design (PGDPD) and Master of Technology (M.Tech.) in Urban and Regional Planning, M.Tech. in Housing, M.Tech. in Environmental Planning, M.Tech. in Infrastructure Planning and M.Tech. in Construction Management

Is Architecture Hard

What Are the Job Prospects after Studying Architecture?

Students often presume that getting a job after Architecture is hard. After pursuing degrees in architecture, the candidate get an ample amount of opportunities to join public and private sector organisations. Architecture as a career in India has many avenues in government bodies such as the Public Works Department, Archaeological Department, Ministry of Defence, National Building Organization, National Institute of Urban Affairs and Indian Railways.

One can have a flourishing career in architecture through the following job profiles:

  • Architectural and Engineering Manager
  • Architectural Engineer
  • Architectural Historian
  • Art Director
  • Building Contractor& Researcher
  • Civil Engineer
  • Construction and Building Inspector
  • Construction Manager
  • Drafter
  • Industrial Designer
  • Interior Designer
  • Landscape Architect
  • Surveying and Mapping Technician
  • Surveyor
  • Urban and Regional Planner

Being an Architect doesn’t always involve joining an organisation. After gaining sufficient experience, many architects choose to start their firms or freelance as a consultant for various projects.

What is the Future of Architecture?

Architecture is omnipresent. It is a field which involves space creation, management, and development. Hence it is everywhere. People always need places for residential, commercial, official and recreational purposes. Therefore, architects play a pivotal role in creating those spaces for them. A career in architecture in India holds much more significance because the need of architects is growing with time, and the field is heading towards innovative and developmental projectsfor a better tomorrow.

 It is the need of the hour that architects collaborate with civil engineers, urban and regional planners, drafters, interior designers, and landscape architects to plan efficient spaces. Not only does it involve commercial viability but also has social relevance, considering the environmental factors associated with space development.