University of the Witwatersrand - WITS
speciality: Architecture

Benefits of an Architecture Degree

Usually, a major reason that motivates students to study Architecture is the possibility of having an impact on their community. How do they do this? By exploring the world, analysing people’s work on constructions and looking for answers to identified problems, they become more creative, more open to new things, bringing a new vision to the world.

Critical thinking skills are constantly being developed by graduates who study Architecture because they get the opportunity to visualise the structures before they are made.

Upon completion of studies, there are many possibilities for employment, and salaries can be generous. A particular increase in the employment rate is expected to be in the Green Design field. This requires creating environmentally-friendly constructs that do not harm nature and generate sustainability. 

Architecture Degree Structure

Young people must have a university degree in Architecture to pursue a career in that field, that is an Architecture Bachelor or Master of Architecture. Often, undergraduate programmes last 5 years, and Master programmes last between 2 and 3 years, depending on the chosen university and the form of education followed. One notable thing is that Master programmes are often for those who have not completed a Bachelor’s specialisation, and that is why the course component can be similar to the Bachelor’s. As far as Doctoral programmes are concerned, the duration is 3 years, and the architects work on research projects.

At the same time, it should be mentioned that the United States and other territories have introduced a professional license Architect Registration Examination. This is a mandatory exam which tests the candidate’s skills, abilities and knowledge. In the UK, for example, the final registration to become an architect is regulated by the Architects Registration Board.

Although the list of courses may differ from one country to another, some of the most important modules for a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture are Computer Assisted Drawing (CAD), Physics, Visualisation, Science, and Technology. 

Throughout their studies, students can take part in various internship programmes or choose a tutor architect to work with. In this way, they get a better idea of what this profession is about in practice and gain the necessary experience needed for their professional development.