Top High-Paying Career Options for Architecture Graduates

Architecture is a stream with a fine mix of the Arts and the Sciences and we have seen students opt for great diversities post the completion of the course.  Post the foundation which consists of the first two years, we can then see graduating students develop a flair for the Arts or Sciences. Other than pursuing the conventional Architecture degree which is a profession in great demand considering our growing population and its consequential growth for urbanism. Here, we discuss the options available to architecture students which will help them grow across the board, and give them a well-rounded view into the industry so that they might use this knowledge to better the living and working conditions for the projects they work on.

Architectural Design:

Conventional Architecture is one of the few professions with which a Professional Registration license is required to practice. A conventional architect is trained to think like an independent and responsible professional along with the skills to work in a team. While some architects choose to work in offices, some want to be entrepreneurs themselves and have firms of their own. Whether large or small depending upon their scope of work and specialisations.

Those who work in large offices soon become associates and earn a percentage on the project fees. Projects now run up to multiple crores, and individual fees may run into lakhs depending on the scope of the work and the size of the project.

International Career

In the last decade we have seen large international design consortiums set up their base in India considering the large scope of developmental projects in the global south. The life of an Architect in such a firm does not only span pan India, but internationally too. Those who enjoy a hectic, jet setters’ life with a thirst for adventure and globetrotting would enjoy working in architectural firms that allow and encourage international projects.

This profession is one in which a student become an observer. You learn from your observation and build to those demands through which most personalities are moulded.

Urban Planning and Development

Within the Architecture stream there several specialisations one can opt for such as urban design. Studies related to urban, country and town planning whereby there is a great demand of jobs with the public sector as authorities that approve urban development. The public sector offers great opportunities as Tier 2 and 3 cities are fast developing considering the vast urban migration from rural hinterlands. Urban planners play a crucial role in the liveability of a space. From public transport and living spaces to environmental factors and land use patterns, everything must be considered by an urban planner.

Sustainability Consultation

Further, rising concerns around climate change and degrading environments are urging architects to think about the sustainability and energy conscious aspects of planning. Architects that pursue specialisations in sustainability, green buildings, landscape and environmental design are able to think critically about the future of their plans and prints, giving a unique insight to any development project and ensure the best possible outcome for the future – both for the planet and for the people in the space. Architects are best suited to address these issues and act appropriately as responsible professions for the better future of this planet. 

Project Management

Large architectural, housing and infrastructure projects require project managers and Architects are best suited for the job. Aditya college of Architecture and Management Studies understands and addresses the above by interweaving such courses at the graduate and  post-graduate levels by providing degrees in Project Management.

Research and Media

Those students who show an inclination towards theory, history, culture, documentation and research proceed aptly towards heritage, conservation, architecture and environmental restoration. Print and broadcast media also provide opportunities to write, compose and make Architecture and Cultural documentaries which is the best medium to communicate with in current times. As Architects are best suited for visualization, set and stage design are relevant careers for those who are creative and inclined towards working in the media, research, and performance industry.

Technology and Innovation

Computer augmented skills in films such as special effects and VFX has seen Architects as contributors to the profession. The introduction to coding made easy and AI has opened an entirely new domain for architects to act and respond to. Understanding the hierarchy, architects can now contribute to programming which is popularly known as Digital Architecture.

Since the birth of civilization, architects have always, and will continue to adapt to the needs of the society and have contributed to various facets of human life on earth. With their unique combined skillset of design creativity and technical prowess, architects have the capability to make a significant impact across sectors while also enjoying rewarding and well-paying careers.