A degree in architecture opens doors to a lot of very exciting and diverse career paths.
Whether you’re interested in interior design for interior spaces, project management, or specialized technical roles like an architectural technologist, town planner or a structural engineer, the skills you develop in architecture can serve as qualification and be applied in many fields.
Here are 20 jobs you can pursue with an architecture degree as you’re on your way to hopefully become an architect, each offering unique opportunities and experiences.
Table of Contents
- What Can You Do With An Architecture Degree
- 1. Architect
- 2. Interior Designer
- 3. Urban Planner
- 4. Landscape Architect
- 5. Project Manager
- 6. Graphic Designer
- 7. Framer
- 8. Lighting Designer
- 9. Building Information Modeling (BIM) Technician
- 10. Construction Manager
- 11. Set Designer
- 12. Historic Preservationist
- 13. Real Estate Developer
- 14. Sustainability Consultant
- 15. Architectural Critic
- 16. Facility Manager
- 17. Exhibition Designer
- 18. Environmental Designer
- 19. CAD Technician
- 20. Academic Researcher
- Bottom Line
What Can You Do With An Architecture Degree
1. Architect
As a traditional architect, you’ll design buildings and oversee construction projects.
This role involves creating detailed plans, consulting with clients, and ensuring that designs comply with safety regulations and building codes.
Architects often work on a variety of projects, from residential homes to commercial skyscrapers.
2. Interior Designer
Interior designers focus on the aesthetics and functionality of indoor spaces.
They select furniture, color schemes, lighting, and materials to create environments that are both beautiful and practical.
This role often requires a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of how people interact with their surroundings.
3. Urban Planner
Urban planners develop plans and programs for land use in urban areas. They work to improve infrastructure, manage resources, and create sustainable communities.
This job requires a blend of architectural knowledge, public policy, and environmental awareness.
4. Landscape Architect
Landscape architects design outdoor spaces such as parks, gardens, and campuses.
They plan the layout of these areas, selecting plants and materials to create functional and attractive environments.
This role combines creativity with a deep understanding of nature and sustainability.
5. Project Manager
Project managers in the architecture field oversee construction projects from start to finish.
They coordinate with clients, contractors, and architects to ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget. This role requires strong organizational and leadership skills.
6. Graphic Designer
Graphic designers create visual content for a variety of media, including websites, advertisements, and publications.
With an architecture degree, you bring a unique perspective to graphic design, particularly in spatial thinking and aesthetics.
7. Framer
Framers construct the skeletal structure of buildings. This role involves reading blueprints, measuring materials, and assembling frameworks.
It’s a hands-on job that provides a deep understanding of the physical aspects of building construction.
8. Lighting Designer
Lighting designers specialize in creating lighting schemes for buildings and outdoor spaces.
They work on everything from theatrical productions to urban landscapes, ensuring that lighting enhances the visual appeal and functionality of spaces.
9. Building Information Modeling (BIM) Technician
BIM technicians use software to create detailed digital representations of buildings.
These models help architects and engineers visualize and plan construction projects.
This role requires proficiency in BIM software and a strong understanding of architectural principles.
10. Construction Manager
Construction managers oversee the daily operations of construction sites. They ensure that projects are completed safely, on time, and within budget.
This job involves coordinating with various stakeholders, including architects, engineers, and laborers.
11. Set Designer
Set designers create the physical environments for film, television, and theater productions. They work closely with directors and producers to design sets that enhance storytelling.
This role combines architectural skills with creativity and an understanding of visual arts.
12. Historic Preservationist
Historic preservationists work to protect and restore historical buildings and sites.
They research the history of structures, plan restoration projects, and ensure that renovations respect the original design and materials.
13. Real Estate Developer
Real estate developers buy land, plan new developments, and oversee construction projects. They work on a variety of projects, from residential neighborhoods to commercial properties.
This role requires a strong understanding of market trends, financial analysis, and project management.
14. Sustainability Consultant
Sustainability consultants advise on how to make buildings and communities more environmentally friendly.
They work on projects to reduce energy consumption, improve water efficiency, and incorporate sustainable materials.
15. Architectural Critic
Architectural critics write reviews and analysis of buildings, urban developments, and design trends. They work for publications, websites, or as freelancers.
This role combines a deep understanding of architecture with strong writing and analytical skills.
16. Facility Manager
Facility managers oversee the maintenance and operations of buildings and campuses. They ensure that facilities are safe, functional, and efficient.
This job involves managing budgets, coordinating repairs, and implementing improvements.
17. Exhibition Designer
Exhibition designers plan and create displays for museums, galleries, and trade shows. They design layouts that enhance the visitor experience and effectively present artifacts or products.
18. Environmental Designer
Environmental designers focus on creating sustainable and harmonious relationships between buildings and their natural surroundings.
They work on projects that integrate natural elements and promote ecological balance.
19. CAD Technician
CAD technicians use computer-aided design software to create technical drawings and plans for construction projects.
They work closely with architects and engineers to develop detailed blueprints and schematics.
20. Academic Researcher
Academic researchers in architecture contribute to the field through teaching and research. They explore new theories, technologies, and methodologies in architecture, often publishing their findings in academic journals.
Bottom Line
An architecture degree equips you with a versatile skill set that can be applied in many industries.
Whether you pursue a traditional role like an architect or explore a more specialized path, the knowledge and experience gained through an architecture degree provide a strong foundation for a successful career!
Good luck!