Who Builds Big Index | Engineering Webography | Career Info Index
Architects design structures -- from houses to soaring skyscrapers. All good architects must also have the ability to conceptualize and communicate their ideas effectively, both verbally and on paper, to clients, government officials, and construction crews.
Meet an architect: Miguel Rosales
Architecture is a rewarding profession, but the path to becoming an architect is rigorous and long. To begin, all architects must complete an academic program specifically focused on architecture. Possibilities include a five-year Bachelor of Architecture program or a two-year Master of Architecture program in addition to an undergraduate degree in architecture. In order to be eligible for accreditation, nearly all states require three years of practice as a junior associate, draftsman, or researcher -- in addition to having an accredited sponsor. Finally, all architects must pass the Architect Registration Exam and master computer assisted design programs before being hired as an architect.
Number of people in profession: 91,000*
Percentage male: 80
Percentage female: 20
Average hours per week: 45
Average starting salary: $ 24,700
Average salary after five years: $38,900
Average salary after 10 to 15 years: $80,000
Civil engineers, construction managers, draftsmen, structural engineers
* Based on a 1999 National Science Foundation survey
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