An architect as a licensed professional, designs, plans and supervises the development of buildings. Builders rely on architects for safe designs and structures, aesthetically pleasing. Being an architect allows a person to create and innovate with the potential to earn a professional level salary. If an architect opts to become certified, she opens the door to global opportunities.

Innovation and Creativity

Whether an architect designs a residential home, an office tower, or a public library, he has the advantage of being able to bring life to concepts. The industry lends itself to innovation since no two projects are the same. As a builder constructs from an architects designs, the architect's structure becomes a fixture in a community for years to come. Drawing a plan to suit clients and contractors within a specified budget and in a time-line adds challenge to innovation.

Licensed Professional Designation

An architect has the advantage of holding the status of a licensed professional for opportunities locally and globally. A student may work towards a Bachelor of Architecture (B. Arch.) or for a competitive advantage, a Master of Architecture (M. Arch.) that requires both a pre-professional undergraduate degree and a professional graduate degree. The National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) accredits and recognizes the degree across the U.S. To obtain a license to practice, an internship and licensing examination follow the degree.

Income

As an architect if you are employed in a private practice in an urban area, you may have the advantage of earning almost double the income of other professionals in planning, building and design industry including urban and regional planners, designer and landscape architects. You have the advantage of earning about the same income as lawyers and accountants. You may also earn a salary upon graduating as an intern.

Certified Architect

An architect who becomes certified by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards, has the advantage of obtaining a license easier with state boards that are NCARB members as well as some Canadian jurisdictions. The certification evaluates and recognizes foreign credentials which may be an advantage for international architectural practice. Being certified represents that you have the advantage of meeting the highest professional architectural standards required by the NCARB for protecting the health, safety and welfare of the public.