Architecture Graduate Programs

Architecture Graduate Programs and Curriculum

There are many factors to consider when choosing a master’s degree program. It’s important to recognize that an ideal architecture graduate student should possess most, if not all, of these qualities:

• Attention to detail
• Artistic, with a flair for the dramatic
• Excellent listening skills
• Strong and creative problem solving skills
• Outside the box thinking
• Strong communication skills
• Understanding of basic construction techniques and principles

Different schools have different approaches regarding the teaching of architecture.. Some schools choose a technical route, some utilize a historical approach and others adhere to a more artistic method. Other schools combine all of these approaches within one degree program. It’s important to decide which method you are most comfortable with and pursue a degree at a school with that focus. Still, most Master of Architecture programs will require you to have a basic knowledge of:

• Architectural theory
• Building science
• Physics
• Architectural history
• Calculus
• Materials
• Digital design (AutoCAD)

The National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) is the only agency that accredits master’s degree programs in architecture. Most state registration boards require an architecture licensure applicant to have graduated from an NAAB accredited Master’s Degree Architecture program.

Architecture Career Paths

The vast majority of architects work within architectural and engineering agencies. The next largest group is self employed, while a small number work in construction or are self employed. Competition for jobs are typically high for architects, so it's best for graduate students to complete internships during their studies in order to network with professionals. A growing career path for arcitects is the specialization of environmentally sustainable designs.

Data according to

Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Ed.

ArchitectureFuture Job Outlook

Architects as a whole are expected to experience much higher than average growth within their field. However, competition will be fierce for positions within the top elite firms. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the architecture industry to experience a 16 percent increase in job growth by 2018.

Based on the Occupational Employment Statistics Survey done by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median income for an architect was approximately $72,550 in May of 2010. As with any job, pay levels vary with the industry of employment.

Data according to

Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Ed.