Recent conversations about whether or not to go into architecture have sparked much debate. Some say that with the availability of computer software designed to create architectural designs, it is no longer necessary to become an architect. Others argue that a degree in architecture gives you a solid base from which to launch any career, but that now anyone can easily access this knowledge online so there is little need for students to pursue such a rigorous education process.

It seems that every day we read about yet another company that launches what they call “The Academy” – a free website where users are able to design their own buildings or landscapes. Companies like The Academy offer people who would like to try their hand at creative designing the opportunity to do just that!

These types of sites have flooded the internet over the past few years as companies strive to make money by offering services that seem similar to those offered by professional architects.

However, these websites are only limited to being designers because they don't require you to be aware of structural engineering, zoning laws, or how to properly use mathematics when creating plans.

Four years of study

In fact, most architecture students are granted a degree after only four years of college. Most schools have two departments that award art and building science degrees-art department for those who want to pursue designing decorations or painting as a career and building department for those who would like to work in construction or interior design.

Many universities offer both bachelor’s and master’s level programs in architectural theory and practice. The bachelors usually take three to four years to complete while the masters can be anywhere from one to two years depending on whether you already have your bachelor’s or not!

Architecture is a very popular choice of major to enter into. There are many ways to make money being an architect so there is a steady source of income for professionals. Some may even find it more rewarding than working in other fields due to the creative nature of what they do.

Five years of study

Recent graduates can expect to spend around five years studying architecture, with most firms requiring three-four years per degree level. This includes both undergraduate and graduate levels such as bachelor’s degrees or professional certificates.

Many architectural students are in high demand — up until two years ago there was not much competition for work! Since then though, it seems every firm is vying for their services and talent. As such, some students may find themselves having trouble finding work in the field.

It’s important to remember that employment in the industry is never guaranteed. Even those who have run into more success than others could be out of work at any given time due to economic conditions or personal reasons.

However, aspiring architects should remain optimistic about the future of their career. If you're consistently meeting your goals and working hard, chances are good that you'll succeed in the long run.

Six years of study

In order to be licensed as an architect in your state, you will need to have at least six years after high school graduation before you can sit for the exam. This is true even if you already have some form of architecture certification or licensure.

Most states require that every candidate for their license take either the Professional Practice Exam (PAPE) or the Architectural Technology Examination (AATE). Both of these tests are usually taken around two months apart so there’s a one year window during which someone with no professional architectural experience can become an architect!

The PAPE is much more common than the AATE but it isn’t required by law. Some states don’t make both exams available to candidates until they have completed at least three full years since high school graduation.

Seven years of study

An architecture degree takes around seven to eight years to complete depending on whether you are studying at undergraduate or graduate level. At undergraduate level, students can choose to specialise in either design or building. At graduate level, you need to have studied both before they grant you your professional qualification.

At the undergraduate level, students typically focus on three areas: mathematics, philosophy and visual arts. These are known as the ‘architecture’ disciplines within the field.

Students normally spend one year doing each of these, which gives them a total of two years under their belt. Two more years is needed to achieve your architect license so this is important to note!

This isn't always the case though; some universities offer fast-track degrees that don’t require quite such a long time frame. By spending less than two years on each discipline, individuals won’t be able to use their qualifications to work as architects.

Eight years of study

After earning their bachelor’s degree in architecture, most students are given at least eight additional years to develop their professional skills. This is called the licensure period or bar exam- this varies by state but typically runs for two to four years.

Most states require architects to take both the Architect Registration Examination (ARE) as well as the National Council Licensure Examination for Architects (NCLEX). The NCLEX is more focused on general principles of architectural practice while the ARE tests your knowledge in specific fields such as interior design or landscape design. Some states only require one or the other so make sure you know which ones are needed where you live!

Both exams can be taken once every two years so there isn’t a hard deadline to pass them if you want to work as an architect. But it does help determine whether or not you get hired because employers look at test results when they recruit candidates.

Nine years of study

Even though most architecture students are in their early twenties when they enter school, it can feel like there is no end in sight! Most people agree that after graduating with your degree, you should be able to find work easily.

But before you assume that every firm or company will hire you right away, you need to make sure that you’re ready to take on whatever job comes your way.

Mostly this means having enough proof of your skills as an architect, which includes showing evidence of professional experience and completing any relevant courses.

Furthermore, many architects start working close to two years past graduation – so don’t expect quick employment for yourself if you’re not making adequate efforts now.

Ten years of study

Having an architecture degree doesn’t mean you get to design buildings or even that you are paid well as an architect, but it does give you the basics for designing other things. A lot of people don’t know this, but being able to draw is very important to be successful in many fields outside of just designing buildings.

Architects must take drawing classes throughout their education, so even if they aren’t teaching students how to put together a diagram of a house, they can at least teach you how to draw a face. Or maybe they will show you where all of those pretty shapes come from!

Outside of school, most architects have to take computer science courses too, as such software used for drafting and creating designs can be learned here. Some employers require you to have your own toolbox of softwares, so make sure to up-train for your job.

11 years of study

An architecture degree can be quite expensive, which is why it’s important to know how much time you need to devote to this career. Most people are aware of the fact that architects earn more than other professionals with similar degrees, but what they may not realize is just how many hours per week an architect needs to work in order to pay off his or her debt.

Most students spend around ten months working while pursuing their bachelor’s degree. During this time, they’re studying hard and working hard, leaving little time for anything else. This means that after college, most graduates have no savings, no job experience, and a large student loan balance.

If a person wants to keep their dreams of becoming an architect alive, they will need to find another source of income. A part-time position may already exist, so there is nothing wrong with asking if anyone knows about such positions. Or, a freelance activity could be done by the individual in question.