Architecture schools and drafting schools utilize more computerized programs now than
ever before. Understanding CADD software and computers are a must for today's breed of
architects and drafters. Architecture and drafting schools train tomorrow's civil
engineers, construction and machinery contractors, and home and transport designers.
Architects have a particularly demanding job centered around meticulous detail and
organization. Drafters design everything from small rivets to entire machines and
vehicles from the ground up.
Architecture schools are a demanding educational experience. Students earn degrees in
engineering at traditional four year schools then continue with post-secondary degrees
at technical training schools. There is also training available for civil architecture
and technical drafting in the military.
Salary Information
Median: $39,100 - $60,300
High: $65,500 - $99,800
Education Requirements
Licensing requirements include a professional degree in architecture, a period of
practical training or internship, and a passing score on all divisions of the Architect
Registration Examination (ARE) for an architectural license. The professional degree in
architecture is a 5-year degree program at an architecture school licensed by National
Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). Professional internships are often 3-year terms,
served in a firm assisting licensed architects.
Drafters can gain certification through technical training at career colleges or
community colleges. After completing a 2-year associate degree program, graduates may
obtain jobs as drafters or continue their education in a related field at 4-year
colleges, where they would enter an engineering major. Most major universities don't
have drafting schools.
Growth Statistics
Job demand for Architects are on an average rise until the year 2014. Their workload is closely associated with the construction industry. Workload goes up as the demand for residential and commercial space increases. Job demand for Drafters will progress slower than average, due to a decline in the manufacturing industries of the country. Drafters will be able to fill a growing niche, however, by training themselves to perform similar duties as civil engineers and architects. This is usually accomplished by another two years of technical education at a drafting school.
