EDWIN CHAVEZ How to Architect

DESCRIPTION OF ARCHITECTURE Architecture is an art and a science. It requires the creative manipulation and coordination of materials and technology, and of light and shadow Architects plan and design buildings and other structures. An architects work can be perceived as art and part of culture. There are different types of architects. You have landscape architects, commercial architects, residential architects, etc.

SKILLS REQUIRED An architect must be creative and know how to mess about with his materials. They have to be able to put their ideas on the table effectively. Have good people skills. Know how to manage their firm and employees (if you own a firm)

SCHOOLING It all depends on what kind of architect you chose to be. Math and structures are important components in architecture programs, so advanced math courses in high school are recommended. Many architecture programs require calculus, which can often be met with AP calculus credit or by taking a placement exam. High school physics courses are strongly recommended as an excellent preparation for understanding basic principles in structures, electricity, heating/cooling, lighting, acoustics, and energy conservation. Most architecture students are required to take a number of architecture courses, which may include drawing and drafting, the history of architecture, international architecture, architectural theory, and architectural design.

AFTER COLLEGE After graduating with a bachelor of architecture degree or a master’s degree in architecture, most aspiring architects will be required to complete an internship. This internship usually involves the graduate working alongside experienced architects at established architectural firms for 700 hours. For most future architects, this internship usually takes about three years to complete. After you’ve completed your internship, you can then take the Architect Registration Examination, which is given by the National Architectural Accrediting Board Only after you have graduated from an accredited architecture school, completed your internship, and passed the Architect Registration Examination can you legally call yourself an architect. For many, this entire process can take up to seven or eight years to complete.