Architects, as a matter of course, plan, supervise and design the construction of buildings. They have to also ensure that those buildings are safe and useful as well as ensure that the design is aesthetic, while conforming both to the needs of the client as well as the regulations which govern the particular area in which the structure is to be built.
Normally, architects have in their possession a college degree in the area and are usually required to do an apprenticeship. In order to practice, architects also have to ensure they are in possession of all the relevant licenses that will allow them to open a successful practice or become a part of an organisation as an architect. It is recommended that those who are interested in going into this area start planning from the secondary school level, since pursuing courses such as history, physics, art, mathematics and mechanical drawing is very useful and garners valuable learning experiences.
For those interested in working in the field, a great way to start is by securing a job in a firm on a part time basis while attending school. This makes it easier to get apprentice positions immediately after graduating from school. After garnering the sufficient amount of experience and obtaining the relevant licensing, individuals have the option of starting their own architectural firm. For those who do not necessarily want to branch out on their own, the possibilities for advancement within firms in general are many and varied.
Depending on where they are located, experience and talent, earnings for architects can vary widely. In 2004, the average income for architects in the US was $60,300 a year with those in the top ten percent earning as much as $99,800 per year. Here is a look, by country, of what architects can make on average:
- CANADA – a survey done in 2007 by the Ontario Association of Architects show that typical earnings for senior architects have exceeded $100,000 per year. Persons pursuing internships had a salary range from $38,482 to $52, 732.
- UNITED STATES – the Occupation Outlook Handbook, published by the US Department of Labour, shows that between 2008 and 2009, the average salary for architects was $76, 750, with interns earning between $24,000 and $34,000 typically. Partners as well as senior architects can usually look forward to an average annual salary that exceeds $100,000.
- UNITED KINGDOM – according to the Royal Institute of British Architects, the typical salary for persons within the industry between 2008 and 2009 is broken down into stages of qualification. Beginners have a salary range between £12,000 and £20,000 and senior levels between £36,000 and £80,000.
- FINLAND – the average salary for architects in Finland is about €35,000.
