Is Architecture a Hard Major?
When I decided to study architecture, it was an easy decision. I thought I knew what I was getting myself into.
Turns out, I had no idea what it would be like. The entire experience was like a roller coaster of ups and downs.
That said, I have no regrets and I actually learned a lot. Though, it’s not a decision to take lightly.
Architecture is a hard major. Let’s talk about what you can expect and if it’s worth it.
Which degree is best for architecture?
If you want to become an architect, you’ll have to take up Bachelor of Science in Architecture for a degree.
You typically need to go through five years of architecture school, with a 2-year apprenticeship after. Then pass the board exams to legally sign the plans you design.
That said, an architecture degree doesn’t always mean you have to become an architect. Because Architecture is a creative and technical major, you’ll likely find a lot of career opportunities from it.
Is an architecture degree hard?
To put it simply, Architecture is likely one of the hardest majors you can take. It combines your creative and critical thinking skills, so it can test the limits of your mind.
Considering the costs, it’s probably not one you can “try” and then get out of easily. Sunk cost fallacy can be hard to combat, especially if you’re already a few years in.
Also, contrary to popular belief, it’s not the Maths that make it hard.
“What makes Architecture hard is the heavy workload you’ll have to take on and the number of criticisms you’ll likely get, given that it’s also a subjective design course.”
Let’s dive deep into the potential challenges you might meet.
1. Subjects in architecture school are not ordinary subjects
You’ve probably heard that being an architecture student requires you to complete a lot of design plates.
These plates take a while to finish. They will need a lot of brainpower aside from your drawing skills.
Not to mention, there are many subjects requiring these plates. And you’ll likely have multiple plate deadlines in a week.
That said, you’ll also have regular subjects. So, if you’re struggling with Calculus, for example, just think of the amount of time you’ll have to allot to study and draw.
Some subjects require manual drawings (drawings by hand). But subjects that allow for digital plates (i.e., those you can do with Computer Aided Design) will help you get plates done faster.
2. Many skills are required to succeed in the architecture field
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to be great at drawing. It just has to be good enough to communicate your ideas.
That said, there are those subjects (likely minor courses) that grade you based on how good your drawings are. These are likely Visual Techniques courses that teach you how to draw.
“Being an architect isn’t about designing what you want. It’s about solving problems through spaces. ”
In a design plate, you’ll be handed a problem (i.e., a client who wants a specific project). You’ll have to propose design solutions that will make that project successful. So, your critical thinking skills need to be good too.
Additionally, keep in mind that architecture isn’t a solo field. Unlike other careers where you can function on your own, architecture is a collaborative field.
That collaboration starts in the classroom. You need to know how to work together, how to cooperate, how to exchange ideas, and how to harness your best skills to contribute.
When you practice in the real world, you’ll be working with engineers, contractors, suppliers, and clients. It’s best to know how to handle and work with people with different ideas early on.
3. Architecture is a competitive industry
There are a lot of career opportunities after studying architecture. That said, it’s a very competitive industry.
Construction is in demand, and there will always be new projects — unless everybody decides to stop building anything.
But does that mean it’s easy to get the job you want?
Take it from the perspective of architecture and construction firms. From a pool of hundreds or thousands of architecture graduates, who will you choose?
“You’ll want to stand out given that there are a lot of you who studied architecture.”
That said, not every company will have an overwhelming amount of applicants. Some will even have high turnovers.
But a high number of potential employees can mean that it can be tricky to ask for higher pays and get into companies you’ll actually like. You’ll want to be able to clearly show your edge to position yourself right.
4. Architecture costs a lot
Yes, money-wise, it costs a lot. You’ll need cash for your drawing tools, laptop, and a very expensive tuition fee. Unless you qualify for a scholarship.
Not to mention, the actual pay for a typical architecture employee isn’t that high. It can take a lot of time just to get the ROI for your education.
Additionally, money isn’t the only cost of an architecture degree. You’ll likely lose time for family, friends, and yourself.
It’s best to know how to manage your energy and time well, so you don’t end up burnt out. But that’s a very challenging thing to do.
5. It doesn’t always pay well
Let’s break this down a bit. Architects have this image that’s very classy, and therefore enables people (including you) to assume that architects are paid more than they really are.
But that’s not exactly true.
“If you want to earn a lot as an architect, you probably need to start your own firm and be your own boss. But any successful business owner will undeniably become rich, so you don’t technically have to be an architect.”
If you only plan to be a regular employee, expect a typical wage (or possibly lower) than the other fields.
In many instances, the amount of investment, energy, and effort spent won’t always be returned in cash. Which is a very disappointing circumstance.
Take up architecture if it makes sense for you financially. But understand the cost in the long term. It may make more sense for those who are in the family business.
Is studying architecture worth it?
Given all the hardships you may encounter, is it still worth taking up Architecture for a degree?
It could be worth it if you enjoy the work itself. For example, if you truly enjoy problem-solving and design. And if you could find a company that pays more than the average (because the average is not a good number).
It could also be worth it if you’re someone who loves a challenge, and isn’t exactly struggling to make ends meet. For those who want to put their minds to the test, Architecture is certainly a degree to consider.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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To become an architect, you’ll need to take up Bachelor of Science in Architecture. It’s typically a 5-year course. After which, you’ll have to go through an apprenticeship program, then take the board exam.
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Yes, math is needed. But it’s not more important than other subjects or skills. It’s best to improve on the design and critical thinking. Practicing architecture is about problem-solving through designing spaces.
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Simply put, architecture refers to designing spaces and buildings. Civil engineering is one of the engineering practices needed to construct and build those spaces or buildings. Together with civil engineers, mechanical and electrical engineers are also commonly involved.
