As development hit every nook and corner of this world, the glass building and skyscrapers became the grandeur of an idealized economy. Architecture is the science behind such beautiful skylines we are in awe of. A career in architecture is in every sense, creative as well as lucrative. Architecture has changed immensely in the past decade.
Since it is seen as an elite profession, many students with diverse backgrounds have come forward to join architecture colleges. Moreover, a career in architecture in India promises immense growth and opportunities.
Here is a step by step guide on how to pursue a career in architecture in India:
Step 1: Foundation of a Career In Architecture
In order to initiate a career in architecture in India, you will need at least a bachelor’s degree in Architecture or better known as B.Arch. Bachelor of Architecture is a 5-year-long undergraduate course. This course is the perfect combination of academic and functional knowledge of planning, building design and constructing diverse structures. Additionally, it focuses on subject knowledge from the field of science, arts, and technology and combines it with the sound knowledge of architecture principles.
In order to pursue this course, the minimum eligibility is to clear 10+2 with Maths and English as compulsory subjects. Also, they must have scored at least 50%. The average fee for this course is between INR 2-6 Lakh.
The National Aptitude Test in Architecture (NATA) and Architecture Aptitude Test (AAT) are two of the most common entrance tests for getting admission into B.Arch. NATA is acceptable by most of the top colleges in India. In contrast, AAT is conducted by the IITs.
Step 2: Making A Decision
Since the construction and designing field has seen a boom in the past decade, there is a high demand for architects in both private as well as government organizations. Once you have a degree in B.Arch, you have to make a decision if you want to go for further studies or start a job. While it is possible to become an architect after gaining an undergrad degree in Architecture, many students prefer to do Masters before starting a job.
Masters of Architecture (M. Arch) is a 2-year postgraduate course. It takes a student through various cycles of expert education which results in them receiving a license at the end of this course.
The minimum eligibility to pursue this course is to have at least 50% marks in B. Arch. The average course fee is between INR 60k-2Lakh.
In order to qualify for M.Arch, a candidate needs to appear for CEED (Common Entrance Examination for Design), which is an online test. This exam is jointly conducted by IITs and the Indian Institute of Science. The minimum eligibility to appear for CEED is to have a graduation in design, fine arts or engineering.
Additionally, CEED is conducted in two parts where part A is more of a screening process. Finally, after clearing this exam, you have to appear for an interview which will be the last stage of your admission process.
Top Colleges in India That Offer B.Arch & M.Arch Courses
- School of Planning & Architecture, New Delhi
- Indian Institute of Technology, Mumbai
- Indian Institute of Technology (NITC), Calicut
- National Institue of Technology Calicut, Kerala
- Punjab University, Chandigarh
- Sir J.J. College of Architecture, Mumbai
- Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar
- Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi
- Birla Institute of Technology, Ranchi
- Manipal University, Manipal
Step 3: Building A Skill Set
Gaining a degree in Architecture is not enough because building a strong skill set is equally vital for a successful career. Therefore, here is a concise list of the skill set an architect needs to have:
- High levels of creativity and imagination
- Strong capacity to work for long hours under high pressure
- An analytical mind with strong mathematical skills
- Project management and strong planning skills
- A perceptive eye for detail
- Leadership skills
- Impeccable design and drafting skills
- Proficiency with CAD (Computer-Aided Design)
Scope of Architecture
In todays world, high structures are increasing in demand. To fulfill the demand of a sustainable structure, an architect is needed. It is not just about the landscape designing but also about the interior designing. The scope of an architects career is widespread.
A fresh graduate in architecture can also earn 2 to 2.5 lac on an average. However, this is just a rough estimate. With exceptional skills and talent, even fresh graduates can earn higher income in the field of architecture.
If you have software designing skills, your remunerations will be higher than usual for sure. If you start working at a construction company or architecture firm, your remuneration might not be too high. But you are sure to have a beneficial experience and learn new things every day.
As a fresher, learning should be your priority and not the earning. You will get to build a strong network comprising of people from the same field as yours. These contacts are sure to benefit you at some stage of your career. Therefore, it is a good option to start working in an already established architect firm.
Moreover, with time and experience, you can eventually start your own business. Because by that time, you will have established experience in architectural designs as well as a wide network built for yourself. Another of the most sought after organizations for an architecture to be a part of is the national building organization or the archaeological departments as well.
Other Options For Building A Career In Architecture
Completing a degree in architecture is a tedious process. So is the entrance exams related to architecture. But at the same time, it is totally worth it because it unfolds a massive stream of job prospects. However, being an Architect is not the only option in the field of architecture.
There are plenty of possibilities for you to consider if you have a degree in Architecture. So let’s take a look at all the options,
- Production Designer
- Real-estate Developer
- Art Director
- Urban Planner
- Graphic Designer
- Industrial Designer
- Photographer
- 3D Visualization Artist
- PR and Communications Specialist
- Architectural Journalist
- Web Designer
- Creative Director
- Entrepreneur
The list is, of course, incomplete because the careers here can be combined in many ways. Also, there are a tremendous number of options apart from these in this field. Therefore, just remember that there is an ocean of opportunities out there waiting for you.
Good luck!
