If you have studied physics, mathematics and chemistry at the 10+2 level, you can apply for admission.
B.Arch is a five-year programme and most schools and colleges select students through a written test. On completion of the Bachelor's programme, one can study architecture at the postgraduate level which varies from 18 months to two years.
Entrance test for B. Arch programmes:
- All India Engineering Entrance Examination (AIEEE), a national-level entrance examination conducted by CBSE
- National Aptitude Test is conducted by the National Institute of Advanced Studies in Architecture (NIASA), Pune and the Academic Unit of the Council of Architecture (CoA)
The private sector is extremely rewarding. In the government sectors, the pay scale is not as lucrative. Architects practicing through their own firm could earn a lot, and this could be from thousands to lakhs. Consultants can charge anywhere between 4 and 10 per cent of the total cost of construction in case of apartments and multi storied buildings.
Payoff
Still recuperating from the economic slowdown, a fresh Architects’ annual salary can be between Rs 3 lakh - Rs 6 lakh depending upon the company. CSs with four-five years of experience make Rs 25 lakh to Rs 1 crore a year in large corporate houses and multi-national companies, as per ICSI figures. Compensation, of course, depends on an individual’s performance and varies from one sector to another.
Skills
- Understanding people's needs is at the core of the profession
- An aspirant should be a creative artist with an interest and bent towards designing
- Ability to sketch free hand plan - though not of utmost importance - is beneficial while explaining intricate details of the structure to clients
- Imaginative outlook
- Awareness of social and environmental factors.
- Apart from being technically sound, good mathematical ability is important as the work involves complex designing problems and working out cost estimations.
- Good communication skills; physical stamina to work on the desk and on site
Important Facts
- Allows you to stay young as every project is a new learning
- Allows one to live dreams through designs
- Get to travel a lot
- Profession does not really allow for flexibility or part time work from home options
- Not a regular nine-five job; takes over life in its entirety
- Less remuneration than jobs in related fields