Architectural Design
As urban renewal is reshaping many modern cities, demand for architects is rapidly increasing. Accredited degrees are a crucial part of architecture education due to professional licensing requirements, in addition to the Architect Registration Examination.
The field is quite competitive for jobs in large cities, although there is ample opportunity for qualified graduates within the industry. Most graduates begin their careers with design firms, and, while some will later transition into solo careers, only 1 out of 5 architects are independent. Actual work within the profession can range from CAD designers to architectural consultants to urban planners, working in a variety of environments.
While growth is considered average for jobs under the architectural design branch, this type of work has been considered very rewarding by those gaining employment in their field.
The field is expected to grow by nearly 20% over the next decade, opening up further opportunities for new graduates. Entry level architects can expect to earn above $40,000, while the median professional salary is closer to $65,000.
