Basics of Architectural Study
Architecture is the process of designing and constructing buildings and other physical structures. Architectural design involves the creation of a plan that takes into account the needs of the person who will use it, as well as the environment in which it will be built. For anyone wanting to pursue a career in architecture, they must be mindful of the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) subjects they undertake.
Architects must possess a range of skills and knowledge enabling them to build buildings of extraordinary beauty and functionality. Alternately, they must understand the local environment and climate, use the right materials, and be able to adhere to the budgets set out by their clients. Additionally, they must be comfortable working with a project team, collaborating with other professionals, and efficiently leading the construction.
The IGCSE Subjects Required For Architecture
Getting your qualifications and entering the world of architecture requires determination and a lot of hard work. At the very minimum, an aspiring student of architecture must have studied mathematics, physics and chemistry. However, the IGCSE subjects required for architecture cannot be limited to these three. Mathematics, physics and chemistry provide just a basic fundamental understanding of mathematics, science and the principles of design. Other subjects may also be beneficial to potential architects.
Design technology is a core subject for architecture and is essential to the foundations of the profession. It can be seen as the bridge between art and science, combining creativity and mathematics with engineering principles. By studying this at the IGCSE level, the aspiring student of architecture can gain a broad understanding of the principles of design, and the physical and engineering aspects of construction including materials, tools and techniques.
In addition to design technology, further mathematics can be beneficial if someone wants to focus on the construction side of architecture as it provides an in-depth look into the mathematics used in building plans and engineering. Similarly, economics or business studies can provide useful knowledge on the financial aspects of being an architect, such as ensuring that a project has the potential to turn a profit for a client. Similarly, digital technology can provide valuable knowledge to make sure the most appropriate technology is used in the construction process.
Career Opportunities For Architects
In today’s world, architects can choose from a growing list of career prospects. With the growth of the internet and e-commerce, architects can create online stores, apartment designs and other types of buildings virtually, allowing them to design residential and commercial spaces in a more dynamic and interesting way. They can also become project managers, draft estimators and even technical authors.
Apart from structural prospects, architects can also gain a financial benefit for their expertise by freelancing or consulting. These opportunities allow them to make use of their expertise to assist other professionals in a wide range of projects. Additionally, architects can play an integral role in the decision-making part of a project and participate in the development of innovative construction techniques.
Today, architects can choose from a number of career options, depending on the direction they decide to take. However, no matter which direction they take, having a good knowledge of the IGCSE subjects required for architecture is essential in order to create effective and successful building designs.
Benefits of Studying IGCSEs in Architecture
Studying the IGCSEs in architecture will give aspiring architects a strong foundation to build upon in order to reach their desired career. These qualifications provide evidence that a student has the theoretical and practical knowledge to undertake their profession. As well as this, they provide a student with the opportunity to develop their ability to work independently, build solutions to problems and provide technical support to fellow professionals.
In the Architecture and Engineering sector, the qualifications gained from studying IGCSE subjects enhance the employability of an individual and result in more job opportunities, increased job satisfaction and more suitable and rewarding positions. Ultimately, having a formal qualification in these subjects provides the knowledge and skills an individual needs to excel in their chosen career.
Choosing the Right IGCSE Subjects for Architecture
Choosing to study the right IGCSE subjects for architecture will provide the aspiring architect an advantage when looking for employment. By understanding the roles and responsibilities of an architect, the students can plan their study more effectively, select the appropriate modules, and prepare to pursue their chosen profession.
For instance, a student interested in programming and engineering should take up computer science or digital technology, while another interested in the aesthetics of design might look at psychology or art courses. Furthermore, one who is keen to develop their managerial and problem-solving skills should select business and economics courses.
At the same time, students can also pick up some of the additional IGCSE subjects for architecture such as geography, hospitality and hospitality management, sustainability, urban design and planning, and construction technologies. This will enable them to specialise in their chosen profession and build a range of knowledge and experience.
Understanding Syllabus, Examinations and Results
IGCSEs are recognised internationally and awarding bodies vary, though the examinations are often taken in the school or college. It is important to understand the syllabus before signing up for the examination and to research past examination questions and typical answers. This should enable one to better prepare for the examinations and manage their expectations of the results. Furthermore, taking mock examinations and attending tutorials or lectures can be extremely helpful as these will inform the student about their educational weaknesses and help them prepare for the examinations.
It is interesting to note that the UK educational system is different from the American system. In the UK, IGCSE subjects must be chosen externally by a student and the subjects can be limited by the particular school or college. However, in the US, the IGCSE exams for architecture are available in state-based exams presented by established educational institutions.
It is also important to be aware of the specific entry requirements for universities and other higher educational institutions. Most will require the student to have achieved a minimum of a 5 or higher on their IGCSE exams, whilst some universities require coursework assessments and a portfolio.
Conclusion
The IGCSEs are an important part of any aspiring architect’s educational plan. Understanding the knowledge and skills required to gain entry into the profession and being aware of the different syllabus, examinations and results is critical to one’s success. Therefore, it is of paramount importance to undertake relevant research and pick the right IGCSE subjects if they want to pursue a career in architecture.
