If you want a successful career and you love home design, architecture might be the path for you. Here are the basics of how to become an architect.

Have you always been fascinated by the structure of buildings?

Do you dream of a career that mixes the creativity of design with the structure of math? Architecture might be the career for you.

This article will teach you how to become an architect. Pretty soon, your city’s skyline could be etched with your designs.

1. Do Your Research

Before diving headfirst into a career in architecture, be certain it’s what you want.

Becoming an architect can take up to 6 years. Don’t decide to pursue this career on a whim. Instead, check out books in your local library about architecture to find out if you’re truly interested.

It’s also a good idea to audit a class in architecture at your local university or community college. Decide whether you want a career in residential or commercial architecture.

2. Get a Bachelor’s Degree

If you want to become an architect, you’ll need an accredited degree in architecture. These programs typically take 5 years to complete, which is no small feat.

Your degree should be accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board.

3. Take on an Internship

After you earn your degree you’ll need to take an internship in architecture.

This internship will give you first-hand experience of the field you’re about to enter. It’s a great networking opportunity as well. Many internships will turn into full-time positions if you make a good impression on your supervisors.

Be sure to show up on time every day of your internship. Ask questions and be attentive to show your supervisors you’re very interested in the field.

4. Pass the Test

After completing your bachelor’s degree and your internship, you’ll need to pass the Architect Registration Examination.

This exam is a seven-part pass or fail test.

You’ll take this test in the state you plan to practice architecture in. Keep in mind that each state may have different requirements to become a licensed architect.

It’s a good idea to figure out where you want to live before you take on an internship. The connections you make during an internship may enable you to find an architect job.

5. Get a Masters

While not a requirement, a Masters degree will open up more opportunities to you as an architect. More jobs will become available to you and at a higher pay scale.

If you want to open your own firm, consider a dual degree in architecture and business.

Now You Know How to Become an Architect

You now have all the knowledge you need on how to become an architect.

The ball is in your court, or rather the pen is in your hand, on what you do with the information.

Remember to do plenty of your own research to be sure architecture is the path you want to go down. It can be a very rewarding and lucrative profession once you pass all the tests.

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