Employment Opportunities
Architecture degrees provide a broad range of employment possibilities. According to a London School of Economics study, Architecture graduates tend to be well remunerated and highly skilled, with 93% of them being employed just six months after graduation. Architects are in high demand all over the world, and architects with a degree have higher average earning potential than those who graduate without a degree. With this in mind, graduates can look for employment opportunities in private architectural firms, universities and government organisations. They can also look for positions in landscaping, urban planning, interior design, and construction. Additionally, Architects can find roles in design,cultural institutions, non-profit organisations, city planning and property development. Many other associated career paths may be available to Architecture graduates, such as marketing or sales in the construction industry.
Departmental Transfer
Architecture graduates can also pursue a departmental transfer by taking up a degree in a related field such as Engineering, Landscape Design, Town Planning or Civil Engineering. Engineering degrees focus on the design and implementation of physical structures and systems, while Landscape Design and Town Planning combine construction knowledge with elements of the natural environment. Civil Engineering degrees are more focused on designing and building large-scale projects such as bridges and highways. A degree in any of these related fields can equip students with the knowledge and experience required to become a successful architect.
Post-Graduate Degrees
Architecture graduates who want to move into academia can also consider pursuing postgraduate degrees such as Master of Arts in Architecture or a Master of Architecture degree. These degrees can enable graduates to undertake research activities in different domains of architecture; for example, in green building, urban infrastructure development or sustainable architecture. Many universities offer Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programs in Architecture, in which students can explore more advanced topics and contribute to their new field in deeper ways than possible in other degrees.
Overseas Opportunities
Having a degree in Architecture can be beneficial in terms of taking up work abroad. Graduates may be able to find work with international construction firms, in project management, urban planning or property development. Overseas employments can offer architecture graduates with excellent salary package, along with other benefits.
Entrepreneurship
Architecture graduates can also set up their own business in architecture and design. This can allow them to take up freelance projects or to open a design firm. However, aspiring entrepreneurs should bear in mind that setting up their own business will require sound business acumen and the ability to bid for and win contracts from clients.
Continuing Education
Architecture graduates who want to continually upgrade their knowledge can pursue Continuing Education (CE) programs offered by many universities. This can equip them with the latest research, materials and practices, enabling them to keep up with the ever-evolving industry. CE courses are also ideal for experienced professionals looking to upgrade their skills.
Networking
Architecture graduates should also use their degree to network and build relationships with professional organisations and industry bodies. Joining professional groups can open up job opportunities and provide a platform to discuss industry trends, get advice and share experiences.
Online Learning
In today’s digital age, many universities and institutions offer online courses that can help architecture graduates stay ahead of the competition. Online courses can offer guidance on areas such as software applications, building techniques, automatic drawing and project management. This can help graduates to update their skills, refresh their knowledge or even explore new fields in the architecture industry.
Career Development
Graduates should also look to develop their career through job and career fairs, job postings and internships. These can offer a great way to get exposure to different industries and positions, see what employers are looking for and gain experience in the industry. Additionally, architecture graduates should keep up to date with architecture trends, news and technology advancements to ensure they stay on top of what’s happening in the industry.
Consultancy
Architecture graduates can also use their degree in a consultancy role, helping to advise and counsel other architects and designers on their projects. Architects can help provide advice and strategies on how to develop their designs, plans and projects in an efficient and effective way. By taking on consultancy roles, architecture graduates can take advantage of their expertise and knowledge to assist and strengthen the practices of other architects.
Mentoring
Architecture graduates can use their degree to offer mentoring services, to those who are interested in a career in architecture. As mentors, graduates can help aspiring architects who are studying or looking for positions. They can provide career advice, guidance on getting into the industry, and tips on how to succeed in their chosen field.
Research
Architecture graduates can also use their degree to pursue a career in research. Researchers can explore architectural topics such as environmental sustainability, conservation, urban regeneration and landscape design. They can also study the impact of architecture on different aspects of society, take part in archaeological digs and find innovative solutions to problems in the industry.
