Pursuing a career in architecture will give you the knowledge and make you an expert in designing different types of buildings. This career is for people who love to work in places that involve areas such as creative thinking, efficiency and teamwork. This career will allow you to utilise your creativity to create useful designs. Starting a career in architecture will train in art as well as science to become a licensed design and engineering expert. Furthermore, you will be in charge of planning and directing the construction of structures.

Pursuing a career in architecture can be a great career choice if you love drawing and making designs. You will have the skills to design different structures such as houses, offices, stadiums, malls, etc. In every part of the world, people need architects to build something that meets their expectations. As a result, this career is in high demand. Additionally, pursuing a career in architecture will allow you to have a high earning potential.

In this piece, I will walk you through the steps to pursue a career in architecture as well as the various specializations to pursue.

Steps to Pursue a Career in Architecture

1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

   The first step to take is to obtain a bachelor’s degree. You should apply to an accredited university and obtain a bachelor’s degree in architecture. This degree will expand your knowledge in areas such as structural systems, environmental systems and building materials. Generally, you will gain the foundational knowledge you need to start your career.

2. Gain Practical Experience

   You can experience this through internship, volunteering or entry-level roles. This experience is vital as it will help you gain hands-on experience in this field. It would be best if you worked under the supervision of a licensed architect. Additionally, this experience can help you to build and develop your skills as well as give you a better understanding of this profession. You can also have access to experts and mentors who can give you better guidance in your career journey.

3. Build Industry Relevant Skills

   This career path requires a combination of both technical and soft skills. You can develop skills such as communication skills, analytical, and problem-solving skills. Additionally, you can build skills that will enable you to use design software.

4. Choose an Area of Specialisation

   Architecture is a broad field. You can choose an area of your interest and carve a niche in it. You can choose areas such as interior, conservation, landscape etc.

5. Pursue a Master’s Degree

   A master’s degree can provide in-depth knowledge and research opportunities in specific areas of interest, such as site architecture, industrial, planning, etc. Additionally, it can also give you a competitive edge when applying for advanced positions or research-oriented roles. You can obtain a master’s degree in architecture or a specialised area of your choice.

6. Obtain Professional Certification

   Acquiring professional certificates can demonstrate your expertise and knowledge. Additionally, it demonstrates your commitment to continuous learning and professional development.

7. Become Licensed

   You need to become licensed to practice as an architect. Therefore, you need to obtain a license from the architecture licensing body. You will be required to write an examination and fulfil some requirements.

8. Join a Professional Association

   As an architect, you must become a member of a professional association. This will give you the chance to network and connect with colleagues, and experts. Furthermore, you can have access to growth opportunities as well as career opportunities.

Areas of Specialisation in Architecture

1. Residential Architecture

   Residential architects build homes, apartment complexes, and other facilities for people to live in. Additionally, they work with individuals who wish to design their own homes, as well as real estate developers who want to build and then sell residential properties.

2. Industrial Architecture

   Industrial architects are responsible for creating specific structures to meet a company’s industrial or logistical needs. Therefore, they often prioritise a structure’s function over its aesthetic look and visual design elements.

3. Extreme Architecture

   Extreme architects build for extreme temperatures and the rising climatic instability that affects human populations. Additionally, they develop novel techniques for building in places with limited transportation and supplies of materials.

4. Interior Architecture

   These professionals combine style and function to develop unique environments that are easy to use as well as relaxing. Additionally, they collaborate with interior designers to provide clients with indoor spaces that meet their needs.

5. Green Architecture

   Green architects design buildings that are environmentally friendly and use sustainable materials. Additionally, they seek to reduce the impact of construction on existing ecosystems and environments.

6. Commercial Architecture

   Commercial architects design buildings used for commerce, entertainment or public affairs, such as Malls, Corporate office buildings, Government buildings, Museums, Hospitals etc.

7. Landscape Architecture

   These architects create public and private spaces by integrating natural and architectural elements. Additionally, with their horticultural expertise, they select ideal trees and plants to improve an outdoor area.

Universities in Africa that Offer Architecture

1. University of Sfax, Tunisia
2. University of Pretoria, South Africa
3. Ain Shams University, Egypt
4. University of Cape Town, South Africa
5. Cairo University, Egypt
6. University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria
7. Mohammed V University, Morocco
8. Hassan II University of Casablanca, Morocco
9. University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa
10. Obafemi Awolowo University, Nigeria
11. Alexandria University, South Africa
12. University of Stellenbosch, South Africa
13. Manouba University, Tunisia
14. Helwan University, Egypt
15. Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Morocco
16. University of Lagos, Nigeria
17. American University in Cairo, Egypt
18. University of Constantine 1, Algeria
19. Cadi Ayyad University, Morocco
20. University of Carthage, Tunisia
21. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Tunisia
22. Ahmadu Bello University, Nigeria
23. University of Monastir, Tunisia
24. University of Johannesburg, South Africa
25. Mansoura University, Egypt
26. University of Sousse, Tunisia
27. Covenant University, Nigeria
28. British University in Egypt, Egypt
29. University of Annaba, Algeria
30. Covenant University, Nigeria
31. Rivers State University of Science and Technology, Nigeria
32. University of Biskra, Algeria

In Conclusion, pursuing a career in Architecture can be a challenging but rewarding journey. This career path will give you the opportunity to design beautiful and functional buildings. Additionally, you will be able to explore your creativity. However, you need to be hard working and committed to thrive in this field.

Good luck!

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