Architects will still be required in the future because everyone needs a house to live in, as well as buildings, offices, schools, churches, and so on. In New Zealand the population is growing. In Auckland, there is a lack of housing. In Christchurch there was a major earthquake, which crumbled lots of buildings and houses and they are redesigning the city. There are many buildings being built and houses as well, which all require architects. If you want to build your dream house, you need an architect.
What you need to do to apply to become an architect, what are the different career options, what money do they earn, and what is involved in a typical week?
When you go to university, you have a number of options to study architecture. You could choose the following options:
Level 6 (National Diploma in Architectural Technology.) You will need 6,280 credits to finish this qualification. You can study full time for two years, or part time.
Level 7 (Bachelor of Architectural Studies.) You need 7,360 credits to finish this qualification. You study for full time for 3 years, and start in February.
Level 9 (Masters of Architecture.) You need to have completed your Level 7 to enter into this. You will need 9,240 credits to finish this qualification. You will study full time for 18 months (minimum), or part time for two and a half years (minimum).
The first round of interviews for all options, are held in November and May.
I have chosen to look at what you need for the Level 7, Bachelor of Architectural Studies. This is where I would start and then go onto Masters.
To apply, I will need an application form, portfolio in hard copy, evidence of drawing techniques, photographs, completed visual arts courses, models, designed or built objects, and a written statement outlining my reasons to be an architect. I need to have a portfolio so that I can show that I can draw, design and communicate ideas. I might need to have an interview.
To study at Auckland University, it would be based on my achievement of the published NCEA Level 3 rank score.
I will need 16 credits at Level 3 or higher in these subjects: classical studies, english, geography, history, history of arts, Te Reo Maori or Te Reo Rangatira.
I will also need 16 credits at Level 3 or higher in these subjects: accounting, biology, calculus, chemistry, economics, mathematics, physics and statistics.
To study at Unitec, I would need a minimum of 42 credits at NCEA Level 3 or higher National Qualifications Framework.
I would need 14 credits at Level 3 or higher from the approved subject list and another 14 credits or higher taken from no more than two additional subjects.
I need 14 credits at Level 1 or higher in Mathematics, plus 8 credits at Level 2 or higher in English or Te Reo Maori. A minimum of 4 credits must be in Reading and a minimum of 4 credits must be in writing.
Some of things you learn as an architecture student are how to design, sketch, draw, model, use computers to design, research, deal with clients, communication, planning, project managing and managing budgets.
You will learn in a digital design studio and fabrication workshop where you will make my models, you will use audio-visual equipment and a computer lab. There is a special library, lots of historical books and archives. You would get to work on real projects with registered architects and also go on exchange trips overseas.
Career options as an architect include; architect, architectural historian, building industry consultant, building technologist, computer-aided design professional, film designer, design-based librarian or archivist, or heritage architect, interior designer, project manager, urban design and environmental design.
The money you could make when you first graduate from university is between $40,000 and $55,000 a year.
Over the next five years you could earn between $50,000 and $80,000, depending on where you work. Architects in the Auckland region tend to earn $5,000 to $20,000, more than other parts of New Zealand.
Registered architects can expect to earn $60,000 to $90,000.
Principal architects with more than five or more experience can earn between $60,000 to $110,000. Self-employed people may earn more.
A typical week will involve:
Designing, 3D design
Listening, communicating with clients, builders, construction people, other designers
Travel to meet clients and site visits
Budgets
To conclude, architecture is a career that will still be relevant in the future. It is an ideal career for people with artistic talent and good organisational and communication skills. The study involved can be intensive, and the career opportunities and pay may vary, but it is an interesting and exciting career pathway. Do you have any of the attributes required by an architect?
Sources:
United NZ (Info pack)
University of Auckland (Info pack)
www.careers.govt.nz
Nicole (Interview)
Katrina (Interview)
