Architecture is big business the industry in 1998 reaached revenues of £1.7 billion according to Mirza & Nacey (2000: Architects' Performance 1999.) This was an increase of 43% on the previous year.
In 2000 there were 20,900 architects in full-time employment (Royal Institute of British Architects) and increase of 2% from 1995.
In today's rapidly changing world, architects are an important part of shaping that change. So is architecture for you? If you're the kind of person who is interested in learning how to improve the every day surroundings that people come into contact with, then you maybe a person that would enjoy being an architect. As an architect you would have the power and the responsibility to shape the environments in which people spend their daily lives.
The title of an Architect is protected by law, so that the public can always be sure that you are qualified. A career in architecture is serious, and therefore your training and education reflects this. You will have to train for a minimum of seven years, which normally involves: -
Undertaking a 5-year degree programme that is recognised by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and the Architects Registration Board (ARB).
You will then require a minimum of 2 years professional experience in an architects' company or equivalent.
This is followed by the RIBA Part 3 examination in "Professional Practice and Management."
Having gained these qualifications you can register as an architect with the ARB and can apply to become a chartered member of the RIBA.
Once you have completed this, only then can you actually call yourself an architect.
As an architect you will need to be inventive, companies require people with the imagination to create the buildings and cities of tomorrow and to keep pace with progress. You will need to be dedicated and motivated to become an architect, training can last for a minimum of 7 years.