Is architecture a good choice?

[BububBubble]

DD is interested in architecture. She loves maths, is quite arty and loves to construct and build things. She loves being busy and working hard. What's it like studying and working as an architect? What type of person would find this path fulfilling? Is there a lot of boring office work involved? What are the pros and cons?

This article may help

www.thearchitectsguide.com/blog/architect-definition-what-does-an-architect-do

Hard work and very competitive.
What about construction project management? Great career.

Highly competitive
Few last the full 7 years
Placements very hard to get - lots of nepotism

But if she's exceptional then def worth a go. Can work anywhere in the world!

Very little maths is used in architecture .... it is a common misconception.

Studying is not intellectually challenging but intense in terms of project load.

Architecture is a lifestyle, and you have to have passion for the subject. Pay is pretty mediocre too.

I would suggest your DD asks for a week or two experience in an architecture office. It will help her get a feel for day to day practice life.

The good thing about an architecture degree is that it can lead on to many other career paths, especially those in the creative field. If I had to guess, only about 20% of my first year university group practice as architects.

I disagree that placements are difficult to get right now. Plenty of offices looking for part 1 and 2s at the moment.

Get her to look at Civil or Structural Engineering. Much better job opportunities

Is she intending to do Physics and MathsA level? If so, lots of opportunities for engineering degrees. Being able to draw is a bonus for architecture. Bath university do ask for maths or physics and they are a top university for architecture.

Project management is somewhat limited in that I’m not sure it’s a Chartered profession. Engineering and Architecture are.

Architects are not paid very well and several we know have struggled with their own businesses. Lots of potential work that they pitch for but don’t get it. There are too many universities offering it now and taking students who are not entirely suitable. So be very sure about this career. We do know other high flying Architects who love it (and live it). She could also consider Landscape architecture. Sheffield university has a great course. There are also specialisms such as acoustics and building services engineers.

Sorry should clarify not many good practices looking for placements - where you do proper work iykwim