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Big Question: What does it take to become a architect? Dream job:Architect and invent something Average pay:$61,600

Useful subjects include: physics, art, maths, English, design, technical drawing, graphic design and biology.

Skills you need: knowledge of building methods and materials, including how various materials, such as steel and wood, perform in different situations
 * knowledge of different styles of architecture
 * knowledge of relevant legislation including the New Zealand Building code, the New Zealand Building Act, the Resource Management Act and local by-laws, consent procedures and planning regulations
 * ability to visualise buildings and spaces (to translate clients' ideas into reality)
 * design and artistic skills, including knowledge of colour theory and texture
 * skill in different drawing and presentation techniques
 * computer skills
 * technical ability
 * knowledge of maths and physics
 * planning and organisational skills
 * good business and communication skills
 * knowledge of various cultures and lifestyles.

How to Become an Architect
Secondary Education The first step is the completion of Year 12, to enable entry into a degree program in architecture.

While entry to most tertiary architecture programs has no pre-requisites, we suggest that you contact individual architecture schools to check if there are any pre-requisites before selecting your year 11 subjects and before applying to a program.

There are a number of secondary school subject areas that can give a good background to the study of architecture. These include: art, design, graphics, computer studies, environmental studies, history, geography, physics, mathematics, communications and technology.

Tertiary Education The next step is to enrol in an accredited architecture program. Your school Careers Advisor can help you with information on how to enrol. There are currently 3 accredited architecture programs offered in New Zealand Schools of Architecture. These courses vary in duration, flexibility and content. You can obtain up to date information directly from the Schools of Architecture about their programs and admission requirements and procedures. Shop around and find the program which suits your interests and needs.

Post tertiary Training and Registration Graduates of architecture programs must complete 2-3 years of on-the-job practical work experience before they can apply to become a registered Architect. Prior to registration, it is expected that graduates will learn how to undertake an architectural project competently through all its project phases and have a sound knowledge of legal and contractual issues related to the practice of architecture.

Career Opportunities Many students who enrol in an architecture program will move on to a satisfying career in mainstream architecture in a private practice or working for a larger firm or government organisation. However, because an Architect’s skills and training are so broad, there are also many opportunities to purse careers outside mainstream architecture practice.

These include opportunities for Architects in areas such as:


 * Urban Planning/Urban Design
 * Property Development
 * Asset Management
 * Project Management
 * Interior Design
 * Environmental Design
 * Construction Management
 * Arbitration/Mediation
 * Facilities Management
 * Furniture Design
 * Industrial Design
 * Teaching
 * Research
 * Construction Law
 * Building Conservation
 * International Aid

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