Architects and architectural designers are two professionals who are often confused with one another, however, there are significant differences. In this article, we will delve into the differences between these two roles, as well as the similarities, education and training required, their job duties, job outlook, earnings, and career trajectory.
To become an architect, you must follow a rigorous path of education and training. You need a bachelor’s degree in architecture, which takes about 5 years to complete. After completing the degree, you must enroll in an internship program for three years, which is known as the Architectural Experience Program (AXP). After completing AXP, you must sit for a licensing exam, called the Architect Registration Examination (ARE).
On the other hand, architectural designers can have a variety of degrees, ranging from an associate’s degree in architectural drafting, a bachelor’s degree in architecture, or even a degree in interior design. They can also have a certification through the National Council of Architecture Registration Boards (NCARB), but it is not mandatory like it is for architects.
Architects and architectural designers have different job duties based on their education and training. Architects have a more comprehensive job scope, including designing buildings, landscapes, and urban planning. They are also responsible for ensuring that the building complies with local, state, and federal regulations, including safety codes and zoning laws. Architects can work in various settings such as for construction firms, government agencies, or as private consultants.
Architectural designers, on the other hand, have a less comprehensive scope of job duties. They can collaborate with architects to design buildings, prepare construction documents, and project coordination. They are also involved in project management, budgeting, and scheduling. The architectural designers can work in various settings, such as architecture offices or construction firms.
Despite the differences, both architects and architectural designers share some similarities. Both professionals contribute to the construction of buildings, both use design software and other technology to create and develop plans, and both must have good communication and collaboration skills.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job growth rate for architects is projected to increase by 1% from 2019 to 2029, which is slower than average for all occupations. The job growth rate for architectural designers is projected to increase by 5%, which is faster than average for all occupations.
In terms of earnings, architects earn a median salary of $80,750 per year, while architectural designers earn a median salary of $52,430 per year. However, architectural designers' salaries can vary depending on the level of experience, location, and the type of employer.
Architects can advance in their career by taking on more significant projects, becoming partners in firms, or by opening their own firm. They can also specialize in a specific area of architecture, such as sustainability, healthcare, or historic preservation.
Architectural designers can advance in their career by taking on more significant projects, specializing in a specific area of architectural design, or by becoming project managers. They can also continue their education by obtaining professional certification or pursuing a graduate degree.
In conclusion, architects and architectural designers are both critical players in the design and construction of buildings. They are responsible for different aspects of the design process and have varying education and training requirements, job duties, job outlooks, earnings, and career trajectories. It is important to understand the difference between these two professionals to choose the best path for your career in the architecture industry.
