Understand the Course Prerequisites
Architecture school is an intense academic experience. Before applying, make sure you check the course prerequisites, as different universities require different qualifications and grades. A high school diploma is usually a must, and some schools will also expect completion of a preliminary year-long program in design. You’ll also need to have excellent grades in mathematics, computation and physics. A portfolio of artwork is also beneficial and can help you stand out from the crowd.
Gain Basic Technical Skills And Knowledge
Architecture school also requires a firm grip and basic understanding of science, technology and art. You’ll need to learn about architecture, civil and structural engineering, landscape design, urban planning and design, interior design, and more. If you don’t have the relevant experience or skills from high school, you can take classes or participate in workshops. You’ll need to become comfortable using Auto CAD software, as it is a core part of architecture school work.
Evaluate Different Architecture Schools
It’s essential to research the architecture schools you’re interested in and asses which one will best suit your needs and career goals. Think about the school’s reputation, courses available, faculty, tuition costs, internship opportunities, and scholarships. It’s important to find a school with knowledgeable professors and a stellar record producing successful graduates. It’s also important to consider the location of schools; city schools may have better internships, but rural schools could offer more nature-focused courses.
Create A Well-Organized Portfolio
Portfolios are an integral part of the architecture school application process. Your portfolio should showcase your strengths, display technical skills, creativity, originality and your artistic talents. Before you apply to architecture school, consider taking classes to help you construct a well-crafted portfolio and make sure it is carefully edited.
Understand The Profession And Career Outlook
Becoming an architect is no small feat, so it’s essential to understand the profession and career outlook prior to applying to school. Do research on what a day in the life of an architect is like, the different specializations of architecture, job opportunities, salary projections and the expected hours. You’ll also need to think about the benefits of having a professional license and the depths of knowledge that an architecture degree provides.
Prepare a Realistic Budget
Design school costs can add up quickly, so you’ll need to consider all treasury requirements. Before you apply, figure out how much you can actually afford to pay for tuition and other school costs. If you are considering taking out a loan or accessing financial aid, make sure you contact the school’s financial aid office for information and resources.
Plan For The Interview
Once you’ve applied to the architecture school of your choice, you may be invited to attend an interview. Make sure you prepare for this, as it’s one of the main ways in which the admissions committee assesses whether a candidate will suit the program. Think about possible questions you may be asked and practice your responses before the interview. Remember that the interview isn’t just about your architecture experience; you should also come prepared to talk about your interests and motivations.
Understand Critiques and Work Critically
Architecture school classes require students to develop the ability to critique their own work critically. This means being able to take critique from professors and other students, which can be difficult, as well as learning to recognize strengths and weaknesses in your own work. To prepare for this, make sure you learn how to express constructive criticism and how to accept it gracefully.
Obtain Professional Representation
If you want to pursue professional opportunities after graduation, such as internships or jobs, it’s best to have a professional portfolio and presence. Before applying to architecture school, research the best methods for building a professional portfolio and getting it noticed.Registering with dedicated architecture industry websites and attending industry events can also help you with this.
Research and Read Beyond Mainstream Knowledge
Architecture is an ever-evolving, multidimensional field of study, so it’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest theories, debates and advances in design. Before you apply to architecture school, make sure you familiarize yourself with the biggest names in the field and keep up with new technological advances. To develop an understanding of design architecture, read beyond the mainstream knowledge and explore different regions, cultural concepts and traditions.
Develop Interpersonal Skills
Architecture school teaches you the technical skills necessary to be a successful architect but you’ll also need the ability to collaborate with people from diverse backgrounds and perspectives. Before you apply to school, think about ways to improve your communication and interpersonal skills. Consider taking classes to help you understand how to manage conflicts, negotiate, and build successful working relationships.
Find Mentorship and Networking Opportunities
Having a mentor is a great way to gain valuable insight into the world of architecture and to make connections with potential employers after graduation. Look for ways to find mentors within the field prior to applying to architecture school, such as joining online groups, attending conferences and speaking with current professionals. Networking is essential in the field of architecture, so tacking advantage of any opportunities to meet and speak with professionals in the industry will give you an edge when applying to school.
