Architecture
What is Architecture?
Architecture is the profession and art of designing buildings, open areas, communities, and other artificial constructions and environments, usually with some regard to aesthetic effect. Architecture often includes design or selection of furnishings and decorations, supervision of construction work, and the examination, restoration, or remodeling of existing buildings.
"architecture." Dictionary.com Unabridged (v 1.0.1). Based on the Random House
Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2006. 06 Nov. 2006.
<Dictionary.com
http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/architecture
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WHAT COURSES DO YOU NEED TO TAKE?
First you must decide what kind of Architecture degree you would like to pursue. There are three different ways to becoming an Architect.
- Five year first professional degree bachelors. (Barch)
- Four year pre-professional plus a two year professional degree. A Bachelor of Arts or Science in Architecture then a Masters Degree in Architecture. (BArch or BScience then MArch)
- Four year non-architecture degree plus a three or four year professional masters degree in architecture. (March)
The American Institute of Architects. AIA.org 2006.
06 Nov. 2006.
<aia.org
http://www.aia.org/SiteObjects/files/K12CareersinArchitectureBrochure2006.pdf
>
In addition, to be called an architect, it is necessary to be licensed in the state in which you will work. Most states will require you to have an NAAB accredited first professional degree to have completed an internship period, typically three years, in an architecture firm. All states require applicants to pass a rigorous, eight-part architect registration examination (ARE).
1997-2000 Intellisight, Inc. Akropolis.net Nov. 2006
Depending on your degree path the courses you take will change. The following is an example curriculum for architecture programs as an undergraduate seeking a BArch degree:
A. Professional core courses
- Basic design and research
- Design-research
- Visual communications
- Structural and environment control systems
- Architectural data systems
- Design and planning theories
- Architectural History
- Basic design and research
B. Professional area studies
- Architectural environmental control systems
- Architectural building materials
- Architectural and planning theories
C. Professional degree studies
- Architectural professional practice
- Integrated building systems
- Architecture design thesis
- Architectural environmental control systems
D. Supporting Arts
E. Electives