Career in Architecture

Architecture is the study which deals with planning and designing of building and structures. Architects use the available space to its maximum in the given budget and they also see to it that it fulfill all the requirements. The work of an architect includes building of houses, multi storied high rise building, stadiums, roads, bridges, parks, dams etc. The architect must have the skill to strike a balance between the aesthetics as well as the technical aspects of it.

Initially architects work as assistants to established architects where they are responsible for researching zoning regulations, working with subcontractors (electricians, plumbers, etc.), and drafting plans, either manually or with computer assistance. After a few years as they gain experience, they start designing parts of a building where they have to be in constant touch with the contractor and ensure that the construction is taking place as per the plans. Later as established architects they actually to design and plan buildings as the lead architect.

Eligibility and Duration:

Entry to the course is after 10+2 , provided you have opted for mathematics at the plus two level and must have scored a minimum 50% aggregate. The B. Arch is a 5 year course. Further on completion of the graduate course, the post-graduate awards offered are the Masters degree (M.Arch.), the PG diploma and the Ph.D.

Aptitudes and personality traits:

Academically good background in physics and mathematics
Imaginative and creative with a bent towards designing
An awareness of social and environmental factors
Physical stamina to work on the desk as well on the site
Good concentration level
Flexibility
Patience
Good communication skills
Team spirit
Observant attitude

Selection Procedure/Exams:

There are a number of National and State level entrance examinations a student could appear for to get admitted to first year of five years full time undergraduate course in Architecture (Bachelor of Architecture) in various colleges of India. Following are some of the important exams a student can appear for:
MH-ARC-CET
AIEEE
IIT-JEE
NATA
MH-AR-CET
MASA
GATE

Specializations:

After completion of B.Arch degree one can specialize in urban designing, regional planning, building engineering and management, architectural conservation, industrial design, landscape architecture, naval architecture, architecture concerning traffic and transport planning etc.

Future Prospects:

Employment opportunities for architects are available in government as well as private sectors. In the private sector they have openings with the builders, architecture firms, and consultants etc. With some years of work experience they can even set up their own business as Consultants and Contractors. Some of the government organizations that absorb architects include Public Works Department, the Archaeological Department, Ministry of Defence, Departments of Railways, National Building Construction Corporation Ltd., City Development Authorities etc.

Description of the stream / field:

A naval architect is a professional engineer who is responsible for the design, construction and repair of ships, boats and offshore structures that are stable, seaworthy and have the economic performance for a comfortable travel in all conditions. They also have to be sure that the design takes care of the technical and safety standards laid down by the various governing agencies.

Naval architects are responsible for more basic ship design, power requirements, structure and stability. They are concerned with the basic safety of the ship, as well as ship performance. They usually work in shipyards where they supervise ship construction, conversion and maintenance. Their work involves both indoor and outdoor work.

Eligibility & Duration:

Bachelor's degree in Naval Architecture / Ocean Engineering. You can also pursue your Bachelor's in Architecture and then do a postgraduate specialization in Naval Architecture. Qualified Naval architects can also join the Indian Navy to undergo specialized 2 year training in Naval ship design at the Naval College of Engineering. Also Indian Navy recruits naval architects every year to serve its requirements.

Aptitudes and Personality Traits:

Good design and technical skills
An eye for detail
Sound analytical and numerical ability
Good communication skills
Mechanical ability
Physical stamina to work on the desk as well on the site, patience, team spirit and sense of responsibility are some other important traits of this profession.

Selection Procedure/Exams:

IIT-JEE
The Indian Maritime University (IMU) Entrance Exam
Cochin University of Science & Technology

Future Prospects:

There is a great demand for naval architects in the countries where ship building industry is in a large format. They can also work in naval dockyards and ship design centers as well as in research centers.

After undergoing the 1 ½ year practical training on a ship and after receiving the MOT certification from DG Shipping, naval architects can also join ships for onboard duty.

Specialisations:

Marine Technology
Ocean Technology
Research

Description of the stream / field:

The landscape architecture is concerned with organizing and modifying a landscape or area, for aesthetic, practical or in some cases, both the above purposes. It falls under a design profession which applies artistic, cultural, and scientific knowledge to the design, planning, and development of the land.

The chief responsibilities of a landscape architect include conceptualization, planning, designing and execution of the development of a piece of land. In addition, sufficient research about the land and its surrounding resources, having expert knowledge about natural and chemical fertilizers, a concise understanding of irrigation and planting processes, are also some of the other important responsibilities of a landscape architect.

Eligibility & Duration:

A Candidate should have passed the B.Arch. exam with aggregate 50 percent. Following the Bachelor’s programme, students complete a 2 year post graduate course in landscape architecture.

Aptitudes and Personality Traits:

Creative ability
Appreciation of nature, talent in art and design
Business acumen

Good communication skills
Ability to get along well with others
Problem solving skills

Selection Procedure/Exams:

Graduation marks
GATE

Future Prospects:

Initially students can choose to join large firms, where they are exposed to multiple projects and have the opportunity to work with a large number of people. However, if they are interested in specific aspect of landscape architecture, for example, residential planning or parks, they can enter that specific stream immediately.

Description of the stream / field:

The basic goal of environmental architecture is simple, attractive, comfortable and affordable houses that do not harm the earth or environment in its manufacture or use. There is a new growing concept of green building, and in many cases, bricks are replaced by hollow, concrete blocks and solar panels are used instead of wooden frames. Environmental Planners understands the importance of balancing environmental issues with human activity in urban and regional planning practices and develop specialist knowledge and skills.

Due to fast depleting natural resources, more and more builders are making use of environmental architects, while designing huge projects. Thus they ensure lesser pollution and lower depletion of resources.

In Mumbai, the government has made it mandatory that every building should comply with Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) if it falls under certain categories. The study of environmental architecture is thus very important for the preservation of natural resources.

Eligibility & Duration:

A Candidate should have passed the B.Arch. exam with aggregate 50 percent. Following the Bachelor's programme, students complete a 2 year post graduate course in landscape architecture.

Aptitudes and Personality Traits:

Creative ability
Precision skills

Eye for detail
Good at mathematical ability

Selection Procedure/Exams:

GATE