Should You Get a Master's Degree in Architecture

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In this video, I talk about my thoughts on getting a master's degree in architecture. As always, what YOU should do depends on what your goals are and what your situation is. The purpose of this video is to share with you my decision and my thought process so that you can take it with a grain of salt and make your own decision about what is best for you.
I will also admit that one of my BIASES is that I have been working at a great firm that has won several design awards in my time there (Robert M. Cain, Architect: www.robertmcain.com/) I admit that if I was at a mediocre firm that did poor design work, then I might have a different perspective on the value of a masters degree. But like I said in the video, you have to make your own decisions; you are the one who knows what is best for you, and you're the one who has to live with the consequences of your decisions.
Drew Paul Bell (of www.DrewPaulBell.com)

[@tanvisawant8512]

This is exactly how I feel! I could so relate to each word you spoke. Thanks for sharing man! Got reinforced!

[@prabhasinisahu8801]

This video is really helpful. I am struggling with all these kind of thoughts bt this video helped me to clear out my queries. You have explained all the points very clearly. Thank you

[@ijyoyo]

Interesting insight! Especially on the decision of construction management potentially or an MBA

[@sumaiyasarwat8659]

You've made the point so clearly. Thank you

[@harryhirsch8527]

good one

[@generaltao1238]

really straight forward point. Thanks for the video!

[@Aisha-ib2ek]

Thank you, this video calmed me down after I thought I wouldn’t get a MARCH

[@shreejeedashora4539]

thank you drew! this video really cleared a lot of doubts in mind.

[@DrewPaulBell]

Great! I'm glad it helped!

[@aanchalbudhrani6620]

This was really helpful. Thankyou so much Drew !

[@DrewPaulBell]

Glad I could help!

[@jacobd2761]

Hey bro I just want to let u know that I've been watching your videos for about 2 years now architecture has been my passion since I was 6 and now that I'm a senior in high school I've been focused on pursuing a career in architecture and you uav really giving me ALOT of helpful information about it just wanting to say thank u and I really appreciate ur post

[@DrewPaulBell]

Awesome! Thanks for the comment!

[@mona-checkoutmychannel7656]

Good luck!

[@nickkoech5316]

I do concur with you. My experience as a practising Architect is that one needs to first grasp the gist of practice before getting to the next step( M.Arch)

[@DrewPaulBell]

I think a masters degree would be a great opportunity to talk to professors about what you’ve seen in practice and codify things you saw but didn’t quite realize. Unfortunately, a lot of people go straight from undergrad to graduate degrees out of fear.

[@Annette.sang8]

Hi Nick..are you an architect in Kenya?

[@johnbanda8758]

What if I get a masters straight out of university then gain on field experience with a masters already on my hands?

[@manueldouglas5180]

In my country (South Africa) you can get a BArch (3 years) but you become what is called a candidate architect where you work under a professional and are not able to sign off designs yourself. You then need the masters and honors and then pass the professional exam in order to finally become a professional

[@playapreez]

You need to confirm whether that is a BArch or BAS - doesn’t sound like a BArch as a BArch is a professional Architecture degree. BArchs are rare as schools are money makers so BArch (5 years) transforms to a BAS (3-4 years) + MArch (3 years). Money.

[@leigh-elmoarendse1236]

Hey Manuel

[@cristobalroig]

i think is more about the people you can relate too than the knowledge it self i more the experience meeting one to one with the architects that you admire and maybe polishing your architecture

[@sauravayyagari7606]

Not entirely related to this video. How can you assess the philosophy, teaching style, pedagogy (Theory vs. Practical) of a school which you would like to go to without doing a college visit, (and even then root out bias)? Some of the colleges in-state are good enough for a bachelors in architecture, yet only one is accredited by NAAB. I can go out of state, but I was just wondering how I could assess the college's principles after I filtered my primary college factors. I tried looking at student work examples online, but it seems that outliers are shown more than others. Other than that I would just take a leap of faith, and shape my schooling as much as I can to nourish my education. I assume that the students would know best what they are learning in a college? Cool, you are putting out some of the best videos on architecture, and you may be bored of the school-related questions since you've become licensed. SOrry

[@JohnKellett_kreativarchitects]

Slightly different in the U.K. without the undergraduate degree plus the masters plus two years training to get the piece of paper from ARB registering you as an architect there are a few alternative ways such as part time or apprenticeship allowing you to be in employment but those routes take a lot longer. In theory, if you are talented enough, you can just take the ARB exam (not the RIBA one though) without any schooling at all but you need to be very good to do that! In fact I don’t think anybody has done that. But, a VERY small number, after dropping out of University after Part 1, have achieved it

[@damondai1289]

John Kellett Same here in New Zealand, BAS+M.Arch(prof)+3yr experience under registered architect

[@harbyandrefrancofernandez3310]

So to become a fully liscenced architect hypothetically, i would have to do the full 7 - 8 years? And what happens if you drop out after finishing bachelors or getting masters? What type of jobs could you get architecture related?

[@JohnKellett_kreativarchitects]

Harby Franco Fernandez, Of course, if you want to be an architect you have to do the full course. But, if not up to it an architectural assistant at RIBA Part 1 or RIBA Part 2 is much more useful to a practice than any technologist or technician as long as you have successfully completed part of the course. The degree is also useful in any other other business due to the breadth and depth of study required. A degree in architecture is most definitely not a degree in 'media studies' :-)

[@WiFiTubeTV]

​@@harbyandrefrancofernandez3310 i never head anyone working as an accountant with an archi degree. I can tell you from my own experience after dropping out from my first year master's degreee, I couldn't get any job with just the bachelor's degree because it's pretty specialized and useless without part 2. Only jobs I've manage to get was graphic designer and 3D visualizer and real estate floor plan designer because they were impressed by my portfolio. Don't expect to get into interior design, they flat-out rejected my applications, don't expect to be any sort of designer like product or jewelry or sculptor unless you want to try on your own space and time. I instead did a grad diploma in commerce (2018) to get a more general job (2019) and started my own venture in e-commerce (started as entrepreneurship assignment in my diploma) by studying webdesign, coding etc on my own. From 2015 when I dropped uni to now, I have learned a lot of new things except architecture lol cause no1 hired me. I can tell you, there's many more interesting and lucrative careers out there than architecture. Plus the bs archi schools and movies sell us is complete delusion in real life. Architect isn't the prestigious career they make it look, it's only useful at dinner tables when they ask you "so what to do you"? With e-commerce I made more in one day than an architect makes in a week. However, e-commerce isn't a fix job, you have to work for yourself. I am obsessed with completing my master's degree so i join uni again this year, however, I decided not to become an architect ever. This is from my experience and point of view. I'm a foreigner in a foreign country so it was harder for me to get into the industry. You can always get a job with just your bachelor's degree if you have good contacts. I used to work as a trainee architect with just my degree in my home country before starting my master's because my parents knew the owner of the firm. "Getting a job" is the everything not studying at university. Because the degrees themselves do not guarantee you a job. You learn a lot more on the job than in uni. In my home country the renown architects never went to the universities but to the technical institutes! What an irony...to me universities are only making money by providing theories and bs than cant be use in real life.

[@harbyandrefrancofernandez3310]

@@WiFiTubeTV i get what you are saying and i agree for the majority really. To be an architect you have to fully love what u do. coz it's a lot. i am currently in a stage where idk what i am doing so perhaps architecture will serve me as more of a backup until i do. i am learning so much from it and i don't want to argue as for what's better to stay or leave coz i think that depends on the person. i can tell however, that i don't see myself being an architect on the long run, but because i don't know what i want to do i stick to it for now. If i figure it out, I'll drop out and go for it for sure, but that's easier said than done for most people. Good to see somebody has done what probably seemed difficult at the time. Being a "uni dropout" as most people like go put it, is usually portraited as bad but if u know what u want to do and love it, then bro full respect to you. If u got any constructive criticism or advice, feel free to tell me coz that's how we learn.

[@azizmustapha864]

Thank you for your thoughts.

[@Araop324]

This helped me a lot thank you sir

[@dhruvbs]

thankyou for sharing your thoughts

[@miguelcarlolanot6536]

Thank you for this!

[@nunosilva187]

In Portugal, Architecture is an integrated master degree, which means that here you have 2 years of license in Arcgitecture Studies and you have to take 3 more years to complete the Architecture Master´s Degree. I don´t know how long you have to study in other countries.

[@zheenahaydari5145]

Thank youuuu yes it definitely helped im a fourth year architectural student and its my last year so everybody is asking me so what are you gonna do after you graduate and i really dont know if i should work at first or directly study masters and if i study masters what would be my thesis topic its really hard to decide what you want

[@shubceee]

So did you go for the master or the job

[@janhavioza8613]

Hello sir. I have done Bachelors of Engineering in Civil and Environmental Engineering from India. Is it possible to study Masters in Sustainable Architecture with Civil background? And is it a good career option to earn back all the expenses being an international student?

[@nailamahaveen8250]

I searched for some advice regarding what to do after architecture. I came across your video. I haven't come to a conclusion but I would say this video was very clear and helpful. What is your advice about pursing MBA now that I'm in my 5th year of architecture?

[@DrewPaulBell]

I think you should work a minimum of 2 years in an architecture firm before going back to get an MBA. 2 years of experience would be good. 4 would be better. If you could experience more than one firm, that would be ideal. You can learn more if you have experience in the topic you’re studying. If you’re learning about business for the first time in a classroom, a lot of the concepts will be lost on you. When you work in a firm for a few years you will understand why leadership, communication, accounting, customer relations, market share, etc are important. You will be able to ask better questions because you will have seen how architecture firms work and you will be able to focus on what you need to run a successful architecture firm instead of some random business. I think getting an MBA could be a great idea if you play your cards right. But that starts with getting experience working in a firm before going back to school.

[@ishitagarg5449]

how would an MBA degree help you? since job placements after that r purely in management positions for marketing finance hr etc

[@sauravayyagari7606]

Cool, you are putting out some of the best videos on architecture, and you may be tired of the school-related questions since you've become licensed. SO I have some questions about the inspiration of role models. "Inspiration is for amateurs" (which we surely are) "Steal, don't Copy" (make it your own) "Reach for the moon if you don't make it you'll land amidst the stars" Quotes are kinda cheap, but I was wondering what the outcomes of most Architecture Bachelors are after say 1 year, 5 years, 10 of working, (a little early eh)? I seem more theoretical than you, and I already knew I was getting a Master's but I was just pondering on the greats from Zaha to Gehry to Cook to Ingles and Aravena (which KZbin pushes), even Mies, Philip C Johnson, and some other modernists.

[@Gitochi]

Well im finish my career in venezuela, so if i want to get a job, in europe or NA i need to do some Master or Postgraduate, so any firm would accept my title.. what do you think

[@madhans4275]

Being an architect is it good to study construction management and become construction manager?

[@cristobalroig]

i think is more about the people you can relate too than the knowledge it self i more the experience meeting one to one with the architects that you admire and maybe polishing your architecture yes definitely expensive , but architectural practice is more the day to day , in a master you have time to reflect on your own stuff , not for everyone agreed

[@AngelGarcia-xl5io]

So if I get an associates degree in architecture, would I then be able to transfer to a college or university (which has an accredited program by NAAB) and earn an accredited bachelor’s in architecture? And if so, would it be another 5 years of school??....or would it be only to take what’s required to obtain the accredited bachelors degree in architecture??

[@rhandel13]

Do you not need a masters in Georgia? I’m getting my b arch in New Mexico and you need a masters to practice here but I’m thinking about moving back to Georgia to be closer to family.

[@soumyatanwar6082]

Do we have masters of architecture as in not a specialized subject but in general, as a masters degree?

[@swoyaman4969]

Iam a 3rd year civil engineering student , can I study master of architecture after I graduate ?

[@byalecay1172]

Hello Do you know how can I convalidate my architecture Spain degree in uk?

[@almarosechamanara4867]

Thank you Paul for all your thoughts they were a great help. But my situation is kind of different and I need some second thoughts on it. My bachelor degree was in Urban development engineering from a foreign but good university and I had the chance to work for a licensed architect for a year and half in LA. Now I got admitted to USC and Calpoly for 3years master program. Although at Calpoly I have the opportunity to do it in 2years and skip the first year because of my experience and my portfolio. But the consultant advised me that the degree is not the only way of getting the license and I can complete my 7.5 credited years by experience and ARE exam. So I was wondering what would be the down sides of not going to school and get the license in this way?

[@DrewPaulBell]

The benefit to getting the NAAB accredited degree is that it will make reciprocity easier. So you can get your license in other states faster. The easiest way to get reciprocity is with an NCARB Certificate. To get an NCARB Certificate without a NAAB accredited degree, you have to hold a license in a jurisdiction continuously for 3 years. So after you get your 7.5 credited years (assuming thats the what you need because I didn't double check that amount) and you pass your exams and you get your license, then you have to hold that license for 3 more years before you can get a Certificate. Why would you want a Certificate? It makes applying for reciprocal licenses easier. It's less paperwork, you don't have to translate and resubmit old transcripts, hours logged, etc. This obviously only comes into play if you want to move to another state or stamp a project in another state within the next 10.5 years. I will also say that I only briefly looked up the rules on NCARB.org. I have looked up rules for people in the past too, and they are always extensive and they very by each state. The short answer is that getting the NAAB accredited degree gives you more flexibility. But if the financial burden effectively takes that flexibility away, then it may not be worth it. I'm not sure who your consultant is, but I would recommend asking someone from NCARB about your specific situation and what the pros and cons are.

[@abinpathrosevijayan3489]

Hi Paul, am a licensed architect in Indian and I am looking forward to work in Canada and totally with you on not wanting to take up masters and just work/practical knowledge but what I understood is that an immigrant requires a license to work which mean I need to take up master's degree. Is it true? Are there any other way to avoid masters and directly work in a firm?

[@paribirar2438]

Can someone plz answer this.. Do we get a license to practice on our own after M.Sc in architecture?

[@shaghp.6615]

Thank you for your video ,, i have a question what if i did a 4 year bachelor's degree and masters in construction management ? Can i be a licensed Architect?

[@DrewPaulBell]

No, one degree has to be a NAAB accredited architecture degree.

[@lohittalukdar9198]

I am thinking of doing llb after my BArch....is it a good decision????

[@sir_gil]

I’m going to start my AA in architecture this summer does anyone have any tips or recommendations?

[@BIGFATMANTRAS]

Good One!

[@arshia9084]

I've completed my bachelor of design, Am I eligible for a master in architecture?

[@salwazain3928]

is there lateral entry to b arch after taking diploma in architecture

[@md.shafiqulislam802]

My bachelor was political Science. May i apply for Msc in Architecture in any European University?

[@jonathanjayarreola1710]

If you got a scholarship in a master's degree, would you take it? I just got offered by the Budapest University of Technology and Economics. Anyone who have been there?

[@nasseralajmi5259]

Thank you man your thoughts are on point. in my country Saudi Arabia, the master's degree will get The person pursuing a license one year closer. do you think it’s a good deal or not. I would like to hear your thoughts about that.

[@DrewPaulBell]

I say you should do whatever saves you time. If getting the masters saves you a year, do it. ...I can’t speak about the financial cost, so you have to decide whether it’s a “good deal” or not for you. But my main focus was minimizing the time I spent in school. I don’t think you learn as much in school as you do in the profession. As Mark Twain once said, “never let your schooling get in the way of your education.” ;)

[@NimrodClover]

Hi DPB - I don't exactly agree that a BArch and MArch, both with no work experience, are equal. I say this because when I finished all my education at University of Illinois I had a BS in Architecture and a MArch as well as a MArch in Civil Engineering. When I went to my first interviews, those who had an MArch simply had a deeper grasp of the subject. In my opinion attempting to squeeze everything into a 5 year BArch just is not possible. A 4+2 gave me a stronger foundation, or at least another year of study coming out of school. Again, everyone has a different experience at school. I will just say that along my career, I've had to hold the hand of more BArch people than MArch people and thus their value to me or the office was greater. I will also add that my combination of degrees from University reduced my internship time before I could sit for the Architectural Registration Exam to the minimum. I passed all sections on the first go and was registered just after turning 28. (it would have been almost a year earlier had they not changed over from the paper test to the computer test that year) Like you, my emphasis was on setting a target and getting there as fast as possible. For me it was being registered as an Architect. This was sort of the whole reason I went to college in the first place. I just realized that I was passing the ARE exactly 10 years after graduating from High School. I do like the videos.

[@najifanowshin6108]

Hey! I graduated with an Economics degree but plan on studying Architecture in US. If I enroll in the 3.5 years Master's program, I fear I might not be a competent architect as opposed to someone with a Bachelor's degree. Should I enroll in B.Arch or just head for M.Arch? Do firms prefer those with B.Arch plus M.Arch more than only those with M.Arch? If don't get a job in the US, i might not be able to practice in my home country because I need a B.Arch for a license. Kindly do get back to me. Loosing my head thinking about these😓

[@DrewPaulBell]

Just get an accredited degree the fastest way possible. You will learn more in practice than you will in academia. Don’t waste time getting a second bachelors degree if you can get a masters in less time. Having a background in economics gives you a more diverse skill set than the other applicants. You just have to market yourself to potential employers that way.

[@angeliamyers790]

I have an associates in Architectural Engineering and I love designing and creating blueprints. Based off of your experience, do you suggest I continue and get a bachelors or would I be able to get a job with an associates?

[@kevinwelsh7490]

blueprints?? how 20th c.

[@willhunter2588]

What if you want to be a licensed architect or want to work in a firm, but you have a bachelor's degree in a different major or are coming from a different career field? Should you get an MArch in that case?

[@DrewPaulBell]

Yes. If you want to become a licensed architect but your undergrad degree is not a BArch, then an MArch is the best decision. That would give you the NAAB accredited degree. And it may be a 3 year masters, but it’s still a much smarter decision than going back and getting a 5 year bachelors.

[@Daniel-tx2vt]

I got into a biology degree because my parents really wanted me to be a doctor. I have 3 more semesters before I graduate and after 1st year I kinda knew that I don’t really like biology and whatnot. According to this video should I go and get a masters in architecture or should I go back and do another 5 year undergraduate and the chase a licence?

[@DrewPaulBell]

If you spend another year and a half to finish your degree, then 3 years on a masters, that’s 4.5 years. If you start in the fall on a BArch degree that’s 5.5 years from now.

[@luisbrito9600]

Hello, can you do anything with a Masters in Architecture for non-majors. I will be graduating this coming spring with my Bachelors in Civil Engineering, but I have always been interested in Architecture. It would be another 3 years of school! and I have already done 5. I just want to be happy with my career. I am not super passionate about Civil, but the design side of Architecture gets me pretty excited. Thanks for your videos!

[@DrewPaulBell]

Yeah that’s one way to do it. As long as the MArch degree is NAAB Accredited, you’ll be able to sit for the architecture registration exams.

[@moto8572]

Drew Paul Bell but how would one go about getting experience since the you’d have a bachelors in civil Engineering?

[@DrewPaulBell]

There are architecture and engineering firms (A+E firms) that do both. You could apply to those firms and express your interest to change from civil to architecture. Then only take a job if you think you would actually get to do architecture work at that firm.

[@polosma77]

Luis, you might be able to get licensed as an architect ( be elegible to take the ARE tests) in some states of the US. based of experience and no education required.(neither a bachelor or master). You just need to have several years of experience working in a architecture firm doing projects for that state. My story is similar to you, later in life I realized that I like more arch than civil. You dont need a student debt to get a master, just make sure to have a mentor and architecture work in that firm. I would like to apply for my license in NYS where education is not required.

[@DrewPaulBell]

This is true in New York, but unfortunately very few states allow this path. Only a handful of states allow someone to sit for the exams without having a NAAB accredited degree. You can check your jurisdiction’s requirements online. Start with NCARB’s website and then you have to go straight to the jurisdiction’s laws/ codes.

[@mostafw9669]

Drew i think some states need to be done master to get licensed,,!!!! please help me about that cause im living in maryland and i saw requirement must be pre -professional to get it thank you

[@DrewPaulBell]

Start here: www.ncarb.org/get-licensed/licensing-requirements-tool and then click through to Maryland’s state requirements to see the specific rules for becoming a registered architect. It doesn’t look like you need a professional degree to get an architecture license in Maryland, but you need to hear the laws straight “from the horses mouth,” so to speak.

[@yourfavoriteclaymationpeng2926]

I'm preparing to switch my studies to a Bachelor's in Architecture degree and I was curious, does getting a masters along with a bachelors make you seem more lucrative to firms or is it unnecessary?

[@DrewPaulBell]

Agreed!

[@sunitapokharel4087]

Hi! I just had a question. Can I do bachelors in civil engineering and then do masters in architecture like can I be both?

[@DrewPaulBell]

Yes. In the US, if your bachelors doesn’t have any design studio classes, the masters degree will likely take 3 years instead of 2. But every school is a little different and I’m not sure about other countries.

[@maskedarabgirl3499]

Does being able to have my license in My home country, means that I can get it in other countries or should I study masters in that country too?

[@DrewPaulBell]

It depends on the country. You probably don’t need to get a masters in the country you want to work in, but it can help to establish yourself in that location. To be sure, look up the requirements for the county you plan on moving too.

[@niantode]

just curious. If you have the opportunity to have a master's scholarship would it affect your stance?

[@DrewPaulBell]

It would depend on how much the scholarship was for and what the area is study was.

[@jackspresso1446]

Have you read the Fountainhead? If so, what are your thought on it and Howard Roark’s philosophy on architecture?

[@DrewPaulBell]

I have. My answer is complicated. First of all it’s fiction. A lot of architects take offense to Roark in that story but I think they’re taking fiction too seriously. Rand was really trying to convey a philosophy, not say something about architecture. A lot of architects dislike the philosophy too though. I personally like the philosophy which puts the individual above the collective. That idea is actually fundamental to the way I live my life. But that being said, I don’t think she actually laid out her philosophy well. The characters are very one dimensional. She clearly had an opponent, and she doesn’t give them a fair stance. Her characters who represent collectivists are pathetic idiots. But real people who have collectivist ideas are smarter than she portrays them. The inverse is true for her individualist characters. Individualists aren’t as flawless as she makes Roark. As for Roark’s philosophy on architecture, I remember that he stood for progress instead of repeating the past. I’m not sure he had a well-worked out architectural philosophy exactly, but it’s been several years since I read the book. I do favor progress over traditionalism. But I wouldn’t through out the baby with the bath water. I think there’s a way to create architecture that is uniquely modern but still respects history. I think that’s the ideal.

[@jackspresso1446]

Drew Paul Bell Thanks for the reply. I’m only about halfway through the book, but I agree with a lot of your views on it. Your answer kinda reminds me of Jordan Peterson’s view on Rand, and Jordan is also a large proponent of the individual over collectivist narrative. Overall, I’m still enjoying the book. I think learning about Rand’s life before reading the book made it easier to understand her views

[@DrewPaulBell]

Haha. Yeah, I actually finished watching the Maps of Meaning lectures two weeks ago and heard him mention Rand in the last one: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bIeUloCsfKyWjrMh28m16s I came to my own conclusion before hearing Jordan Peterson's view on it, but he did a much better job articulating the problem than I ever had, so I borrow from what he said a little lol. As I was reading both the Fountainhead and Atlas Shrugged, I could look at the story and think it was so clear. But then I would look at the real world around me and see that it was not as black and white as the books were. The characters in Atlas Shrugged had slightly more of a character arc than anyone in the Fountainhead did, and I think it made the story better. But Peterson's critique still holds true. The Atlas Shrugged characters may be more nuanced than the Fountainhead, but not by much. I think her general idea wasn't wrong. If she was right, maybe it shouldn't matter how she presented her philosophy (I used to think that.) But it does feel like it is missing something despite the fact that there are a lot of ideas worth considering in the book. It is one of those books almost every architect has read. And while anyone can find something to be critical about in it, I think it's worth reading. I'm glad that you are. The thing I respect the most about Roark is his un-compromising sense of principle. And while that is the very thing most critics probably hate about him, I think it's one of the key pillars of the book. ...Speaking of "pillars"...An interesting complement to her books, is Nathaniel Branden's book The Six Pillars of Self Esteem. (Ayn Rand had a love affair with Nathaniel Branden at one point.) I think the essence of what Branden described in his book is exactly the thing about Roark that I like so much. May be worth checking out at some point!

[@kubaalbrecht8615]

I am confused at the beginning of the video you said you were a licensed architect but you say you did not to a master and then you say you must do a masters to become a licensed architect? Could you clarify if i missed something?

[@DrewPaulBell]

If you get a 4 year bachelors then you need a masters. But if you get the 5 year NAAB accredited degree, then that meets the education requirements for NCARB and you don’t need a masters.

[@acegmet4197]

hi, free laser distance measure, anyone want?

[@museumofdrawing965]

MArch here. Life is long, hopefully. When your on track post Barch, your timeline for learning your area is 10-15 years at about 80% employed before you hit the ceiling. Then it wont matter what’s in your resume, its not adding value. Then its about buying into partnership or launching your own practice. Most people don’t have the cash. As the corps are pyramids, theres less room as you go up in age and experience. So you might just get squeezed out no matter your experience around 50, at the first recession. As a mature industry the number of firms is stable. To grow and succeed you need to compete. Two choices, cheaper or better, from a clients point of view. You cant be much cheaper, as the profession has minimum standards to ensure. So yes, your in a trap. If you cant do your own research and develop a new practice chances are you wont keep up. In short you do need to be an academic. Think bodybuilding for the mind, not practical daily stuff. The licensing and internship should be very easy compared to the entrepreneurship challenge. After all its just a paper maze. Those that succeed late into their lives learn to play a higher game, and educational upgrades are just part of that. No worry’s! If you are masters capable, with high GRE scores across the 3 categories, you will find good challenges till the bitter end. This is a more international perspective. In Canada the more technical work that US architects do, we call a technologist, a college not uni market. Canada is very different from the usa.

[@jrmjay9478]

But some of the highest paying firms requires you to have a masters tho 😑😑😑... also I’m thinking about getting a bachelor degree in architecture next year and I wanna to be ready going in so if you guys have any ideas of what I should be studying... please let me know

[@livlyfe4022]

Following

[@ericksongarchitects3840]

The MArch is for mature academics. Work experience is not that relevant. It is for those who seek pro education, a studio experience and an option to be a pro architect or academic. It is really the finishing of a great educational accomplishment. Congrats. You must come into the program with something to offer academically, a degree in another more general background. A portfolio of working drawings is a fail. The world of work is a wholly separate training and approval process.

[@sauravayyagari7606]

So NCARB is for US national licensing, how would I go about doing international projects if I get an education in 'Merica. I was talking to a professor and he said that the best way was to build connections in an urban environment (urban schooling) so that firms can see you easier and get into a simple US-based firm that travels abroad and does similar large-scale projects (skyscrapers, urban planning, hotels, [not keen on working on them, but perhaps])

[@DrewPaulBell]

The easy answer is to work at an international firm. But it also depends on what stage of your career you're looking at. If you want to do international work in your own practice, you need the connections with people yourself, or bring on a partner who does to get the work. The way international architects do projects in the US is they hire an "Architect of Record." So for the Denver Art Museum, for example, Daniel Libeskind and his firm did the schematic design, and then a Denver-based firm, Davis Partnership Architects, did the construction documents, stamped the drawings, and applied for the building permit. Studio Libeskind probably sent one or two employees to Denver to oversee the drawing production. But they formed a contractual relationship where the local firm was established as the architect of record and was compensated appropriately. (This is also how some firms do big projects in other states.) It would be cheaper for a foreign office to partner with a local firm to complete CD's and be the architect of record than it would be to get a license for that jurisdiction/country. I don't have any specific examples going the other way, but I suspect there are similar opportunities for a US licensed architect to design a building overseas and partner with a local architect to be the architect of record.

[@sauravayyagari7606]

I don't know why I put these all in separate comments How can you assess where the outlook for architecture job opportunities, without getting a meteorology or economics degree. That was a joke, but I assume the word of mouth is the best way of knowing the best regional firms. Did you look for a job urgently or was there some kind of prospecting involved. Did you/ Do you like the South/ Southeast's regional architecture firm outlooks. I heard that it is great as Also I know some of these question may have far-fetched answers, especially for a young architect like you. So take it in your own time, at your own will.

[@emilyrosebelandres98]

What are the benefits of taking masterals vs taking doctorals degree??... How much is the average cost of taking masterals degree in US???...

[@DrewPaulBell]

It depends on what you're trying to do. If you want to be a professor or write books, then it would probably be a good idea. I understand that to teach any level of college you need one degree higher: Want to teach a Bachelor's class? you need a Master's degree. Want to teach a Master's class? you need to have a Doctorate. If you are trying to run a successful practice, I don't see that it is absolutely necessary to have either of those. The cost will vary widely depending on the school, and scholarships. Best to look it up online at the schools you're considering.

[@emilyrosebelandres98]

@@DrewPaulBell understood, thank you :)

[@10ahmedhassan]

Hello, I am architect outside U.S and not U.S citizen. I am interested to get license of practicing architecture in U.S , I registered in NCARB and I need to practice some hours under licensed architect. Do you recommend me to get master of technology management in Bowling green state university to practice some hours under licensed architect ? it has three subjects in construction and I do not care about the study of architecture again as I care about license and easy curriculum. What is your opinion ?

[@DrewPaulBell]

Do you have a degree that NCARB recognizes?

[@10ahmedhassan]

Drew Paul Bell Because my degree is not from U.S neither Canada, NCARB advised me to work on foreign architect path instead of EESA (Education Evaluation Services for Architects) , foreign architect path is for those who are licensed architect in their home country and its requirements are sending transcript directly from the foreign institution of study plus verification form filled by myself for part A and part B should be filled by governing body. Then , that completed verification form must be sent directly from the governing body stating that I am licensed architect in my home country. then I can move to AXP once the above approved based on my conversation with them. that is the answer I received from NCARB today. so , actually the answer of your important question to me that there are two cases , but my case , I am licensed and registered as architectural engineer in my home country. so if they approved the foreign transcript and verification form then I will need AXP under U.S licensed architect which is empty in my new NCARB record www.ncarb.org/advance-your-career/ncarb-certificate/get-certified/foreign-architects , I am looking for your advise based on my first question and based on the information given here. Thank you for your patience

[@Rasmia_Oxford]

hi Drew, I did my bachelor in Architecture in 2016, and that was a 5years course. currently working in Dubai as an assistant architect. now I am planning to do masters in the UK. what do you think, should I do it on "sustainable Architecture" or "Construction BIM management"? which one has a good future? kindly help and reply. Thanks

[@DrewPaulBell]

I don’t tell people what they should do like this because you know yourself better than I do. I think BIM management would be a more lucrative career, but I don’t know that for sure. And you have to consider what you want your career would look like. You may be choosing between the careers of “sustainability consultant” and “BIM Consultant.” If you pick the one you like better, I think you will do a better job at it and be more successful.

[@maryamkabirkoki9515]

hello im planning on doing masters in dubia what avice can you give me

[@shahidthakur92]

Hi Rasmia. Just thought of replying to you as I feel I was in the same boat some time ago. I had discovered that Sustainable architecture remains more into books than in reality. Very few countries do take the term of sustainability that seriously. Also, the field being old has filled up mob leading to nower. In comparison to this, the latter one is quite a new generation tech. And it's beyond what u r imagining right now. It is the future. It is an upcoming trend and lot of research and development is still undergo in BIM. This creates a larger potential for developing ur career into BIM and its technologies. Its a very vast field and almost now compulsory for an architect to know it. It is safe to say that architects without the knowledge of BIM will collapse in near days. P.s.: Myself also an architect, worked in Dubai, and pursuing masters in BIM from the UK.

[@Rasmia_Oxford]

SHAHID THAKUR very nice to know you and thank you so much for your opinion. Unfortunately or fortunately I’m doing Project management in the built environment. I don’t know if it make sense to doing this but I feel I can get ideas here about the BIM too. As far I know for only BIM I don’t need to do masters but I need more knowledge about project management, also in the near future I want to be on it only. It would be great to contact you personally. If you don’t mind can you put your whatsApp number here? You can remove later when I ping you. Regards🌼

[@shahidthakur92]

@@Rasmia_Oxford Well, that's a misconception abt BIM for many that u just said. Even I realised it after getting into this field. Its very broad and not something u cud figure out urself or from certification courses or merely an experience! That is a very bad way to start BIM career. In regards to what you are pursuing, I'm aware of it and that's not bad too. Nothing unfortunate abt it. It's like a parallel track for half way and then it takes a turn going to some other destination. Rasmia, I'm sorry, due to privacy concerns, I may not risk to post my contact here. Although u may connect to me on fb, if u comfortable. My name is same as this. Cheers!

[@deletedjkcndsnsdnkcj]

hi drew! is it hard to get into/survive in the archi field with only a bachelor's degree? i'm probably going to get a master's and i know i'll have time to think about that while gaining work experience, but firstly i'll need to secure a job in first place. i'm not even in university yet, just curious and overstressed on future job prospects, and thanks for the informative video!

[@DrewPaulBell]

No it’s not hard with a bachelors degree. For most firms, I don’t think it matters if you have a bachelors or a masters. Previous experience trumps an extra degree.

[@gwin8463]

Things are not really that hard over there, no offense. Just that over here in Nigeria, after spending 5 years to get a bachelor's, you still need the masters Degree in Architecture (2 years) , and also PHD (About 6 years) and years of work experience. Before you will be eligible to write an exam which doesn't even guarantee your success in obtaining an architectural seal (license)

[@jonathanbrazeau970]

great channel. Thanks for sharing. What is your workload like right now? would I be able to show you a design I'm working on, just fairly simple residential wood frame house design. I'm from product design world so not too up to speed on the methods and codes for residential wood frame structures. Obviously will pay for consult. If interested, let me know.

[@DrewPaulBell]

@Jonathan Brazeau Thanks! Sounds interesting. Send me an email at [e-mail] with a little more information about the design and what you want to achieve and I will see if I can help out. Sincerely, Drew

[@jonathanbrazeau970]

@@DrewPaulBell Ok, will send you a msg soon. Thanks.

[@jessicajuan8963]

Do you need to be good at physics to become an architect?

[@DrewPaulBell]

It’s good to have in your tool belt, but it’s not absolutely necessary. I think when some people ask about physics and architecture they really mean “statics” which is “the branch of mechanics concerned with forces in static equilibrium while physics is the branch of science concerned with the study of properties and interactions of space, time, matter and energy” according to some Wikipedia website. You can find jobs in the world of architecture that do not involve statics or many math equations. But if you’re going to get a degree or become a registered architect, you’re going to encounter some math along the way, even if you’re not doing it every day. ...I’d say you don’t have to be GOOD at it. You just have to be minimally competent at it.

[@sararahasan5939]

I am a US citizen but I am currently living in Bangladesh and I am about to complete my 5 years Bachelor degree in Architecture here. I plan on moving back to the US to pursue higher studies. I haven't come to a solid decision as to what I want to study for Masters yet but it most probably will be either interior architecture, graphic design or product design. Will it be better for me to work first and then pursue my masters or the other way around? How easy or difficult will it be for me to get a job in the US? I was thinking that since I didn't get the experience of studying in American universities, doing my masters there first before applying for jobs will help me understand the cultural as well as academic atmosphere and environment there so that I know what to expect and how to get myself ready for the job world. But I wanted to get your insight on this, if you don't mind :)

[@caicharlie3450]

Agree

[@jwinwithin5124]

Can someone with business degree get into architecture?

[@DrewPaulBell]

Yes, if someone’s undergraduate degree is in a different field of study, then the masters degree would be an “MAarch I” and would take 3-3.5 years instead of the MArch II which takes 2 years. The MArch II is really for students who have a non-professional degree in architecture already and the MAarch I is for students whose degree is in something else.

[@JoseAnd97]

I am thinking on getting an MBA what are your thoughts on that?

[@DrewPaulBell]

I think an MBA might be a great idea if your play your cards right. I would recommend that you work in the profession for AT LEAST two years before going back for an MBA. I’ve been in the profession for a little over 4 years now, and I know that I would get way more out of an MBA now than I would have right out of my undergrad degree. I think you need to experience working in a firm to know what to focus on in your MBA classes. An architecture firm works differently than a restaurant and differently than manufacturing business. Once you’ve worked in a firm, you will be able to ask better questions specific to the business of architecture and your MBA will be worth more.

[@JoseAnd97]

@@DrewPaulBell Great! Thanks for your answer. That's exactly what I have in mind, I'm about to finish my third year of architecture and I've been working for almost all of it part time on a construction/architecture firm and it's been so mind opening (not to mention the GREAT advantage you take for knowing how things actually work in the real world). I'm also thinking of waiting two years after I graduate to have the time to work full time and also save some money (for you know sketchbooks and things ;) ). Another good thing is that I'm looking for a sponsorship due to my, I would say, good grades. Thanks for your time and keep up the good content

[@DrewPaulBell]

Great! Nice job getting a position while you’re in school! There is just so much you learn in an office that you won’t learn in school. And you’re right, saving up some money is another huge reason to work a few years before going back for a masters. 👍

[@jonboehle3395]

If you’re planning to do a 4 yr + 2 yr, would you be able to work in a firm before you go to get your masters?

[@DrewPaulBell]

Yeah. I would advise that you do.

[@jonboehle3395]

@@DrewPaulBell so you can work in a firm without an accredited degree, but unable to obtain a license until you have an naab accreditation? Am I understanding this correctly?

[@DrewPaulBell]

Yes. You don’t need a license to work at a firm. A lot of people choose to never get a license. It’s just that if you are going to stamp your own drawings, you need a license. You can also work while you are in school. Most firms will offer intern positions if their workload allows it.

[@jonboehle3395]

@@DrewPaulBell thank you very much, you’ve been a great help!

[@fitnesstodaymagazine6715]

Construction management

[@sarfraz1401]

I am B tech civil engineering wants to work as architecture , so doing a m tech in Arch is a good idea or not ?

[@DrewPaulBell]

That’s sounds like a good idea if you want to do architecture. A background in civil engineering would go well with a masters in architecture. I’m not familiar with the “m tech” degree. Check to see if it allows you to get your license to practice architecture.

[@sarfraz1401]

@@DrewPaulBell What if a person having b tech civil , working as design and planning like architect how long can he go without architect degree ?

[@dikshyashrestha699]

How to become architecture lecturer

[@planitdesigns6192]

Hi. Which country are you from.? Just need to know from which perspective you speaking. Constraints and obstacles may vary from country to country. Here in South Africa we have architectural draughtsmen who sound like lecturers or professors......but produce disastrous designs or really poor quality drawings. They feel they dont need further education....and are rebels against tertiary education.

[@DrewPaulBell]

I’m in the U.S. And for the record, I’m not saying you don’t need to further your education. I’m saying that there are ways to further your education that might be more cost effective than going to school.

[@planitdesigns6192]

+Drew Paul Bell Thanks. I agree with you 100% about the importance of work experience at an architectural firm. I was just giving you the perspective of those (here in this country)....that drop out of studies midway, hardly get work experience then run private practice. The public often innocently hire them for quality of work thats inferior to architectural firms. Its the academic politics of the profession here in South Africa. I have worked for ten years at firms after a bachelor's degree and now practicing on my own, i have to now and again compete with their much lower fees. Its the public that also need to be informed. Otherwise on the brighter side im enjoying working and learning more and more. Contemplating doing masters as a personal challenge. Thanks again for your video.

[@tilly3851]

Anyone has any information of Environmental design/ Architecture

[@derekayebare9704]

Yeah, I did a 3 years Bachelor of Environmental Design program (In Uganda btw) with a focus on sustainable architecture. Ive been working in architectural practices in Kampala for two years. But this degree is a Pre-professional degree. This means that you'd need to do a professional architecture degree i.e a Master of Architecture (Professional) which is usually 2-3 years depending on which University/country. So, since i want to become an architect, later this year i'll get enrolled in a M.Arch (Prof) and spend maybe 2-3 years in school, then practice for few more years before i get licensed.

[@tilly3851]

@@derekayebare9704 so it's not possible to just take Environmental design youd always have to take Architect before it? That what your saying?

[@derekayebare9704]

@@tilly3851 I’m saying, You can study an Environmental Design degree. And if you want to branch into mainstream architecture, you can then do a professional architecture degree. Atleast that’s what is possible for me in the university I’m going to join. There are other branches you could take after your environmental design degree, such as urban design, landscape architecture, among others.

[@tilly3851]

@@derekayebare9704 I wanted to work with a firm to get an idea of how to make my own (also make it international) and I also wanted to do non profit work like build housing in different areas of the world the would not negatively impact the environment but I dont really hear much about it or like Architecture things

[@saisundeep7836]

After completion of B.Tech [ Civil Engineering ] can I study Master's in Architecture ....

[@blakeb4583]

Yes, but most, if not all, M.Arch programs are 3 years if you don't already have a B.S. in Architecture or ENVD (Environmental Design)

[@saisundeep7836]

@@blakeb4583 sorry I didn't get you please explain it in a detailed manner

[@johnbanda8758]

@@saisundeep7836 if you don't already have a degree in architecture (b.Arch) it will take you three years to do your masters program

[@johnbanda8758]

How much do you earn as an architect?

[@ddh19454]

Like 70 to 80k on average

[@ddh19454]

Annually

[@swar3194]

im architect drew Paul bell!!!!

[@kevinwelsh7490]

aren't most architecture schools dropping BArch professional and just offering 3-year MArch professionally accredited? I did 5-year BArch prossional followed by 1.5 years MArch post-professional. It was the most FUN I have ever had in architecture. Building technology is necessary but SO boring. Earlier I did 2-year college diploma in building technology. Spoon fed.

[@yashyj4655]

hello i am from INDIA and i want to study in australia , an i have a confusion that can a commerce student can do Archietecture in Australia?????

[@chandanreddy3465]

no

[@MashaKanarchuk]

Me: should I make masters 🤔 Spain: you don’t do it you are not an architect 👋

[@harryhirsch8527]

totaly wrong..a masters degree is not just about reading books...and frankly....without a masters degree you will be second choice your entire life...that is what the bachelor people say al lthe time...master graduates get a slightly higher salary and master is required for certain architects jobs/ careers within the government and universities...and..no 5 years degree no AIA or RIBA etc...unless you are an extremly famous architect

[@martinsahagunsiles3513]

😴

[@jialungong6142]

hi, free laser distance measure, anyone want?

[@D-reborn]

Free?