Art Careers: Be an Architect

If you see beauty in buildings around you, and you are an artist, you might consider becoming an architect. Architects design buildings. They are involved with every aspect of construction. What they do is draw what the client would like to have made, and they have to deal with the city they are working in to make sure that the building would be zoned correctly. Another job that the architect has to do is oversee the entire construction process.

Many different people hire architects, like corporations, the government and individuals. Architects can manage their own business, or work for other companies. Some of these places include government agencies, architectural firms, commercial or real estate companies. That is not the only place an architect can work. Some architects are hired to work on movie sets. As you can see this can be a very interesting and rewarding career choice.

Some architects specialize in designing a particular kind of building. Some areas of they specialize in could be, schools, health care buildings or restoring historical buildings. If an architect is hired by a company, their job details would include managing projects, marketing, programming, dealing with costs and specifications.

Architects work a regular work schedule except when there is a deadline. If the client wants something different, or a problem arises, an architect must do some overtime to get things done perfectly!

Many firms now have at least 10 if not more, employees who work on the Internet. Architects have websites where they can send their designs by email. They also use the Internet to learn more about their career. Many architects now are working in other countries.

According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, salary for an architect was $62,530 in 2002. The percent of architects that work for themselves are just 30%. The job outlook is good, as growth will continue through 2012.

To be an architect you have to have a five year degree and a license in the state you intend to work. There are over 100 universities that have an architectural program. Some courses you would be taking are: Structures, building design, math, architectural history and technology. If you have a Bachelor's degree in something other than architecture, you can take it at masters level. Since, many architects work in other countries, a couple of languages should be learned also.

After graduating, you have to spend three years gaining experience, then you have to pass the Architect registration exam.