Career Profile: Studying Architecture in Seattle

By Damian McKnight, Contributing Writer

Downtown SeattleStudying architecture is more than the study of the configuration of concrete, glass and steel. It's a study of the past, present and the future. It's bold and exciting.-- a study of what is possible -- of what has come before and what is yet to be. The 1962 Space Needle (the icon of 1962's Seattle World's Fair), by John Graham and Victor Steinbrueck; the 2000 Experience Music Project by Frank Gehry; and the 2005 Seattle Central Library by Rem Koolhaas, are all buildings with unusual feats of design and well ahead of their time.

Seattle's Architecture Degree Programs

Architecture students in Seattle can study the design and structure of buildings through numerous undergraduate and graduate architecture degree programs. There are different degree choices depending on the area of concentration the prospective student is interested in. An undergraduate Bachelor of Architecture degree may take five years to earn, requiring a thesis and internship. By contrast, a student interested in an interior architectural design career may choose between a full bachelors degree or a certification program, some taking as little as one year.

Most areas of study also offer graduate degrees. An architecture degree student may be expected to take courses in art, design, history, math and the physical sciences as well as courses focusing on building construction and engineering.

Areas of study may include:

  • Building Design & Construction Systems
  • Construction Documents & Services
  • Programming, Planning & Practice
  • Schematic Design
  • Site Planning & Design

All states require individuals to be licensed before they can call themselves architects. In Washington, only licensed architects may represent themselves using the title "architect" or engage in the practice of architecture as defined by law.  Requirements for licensure include a combination of education and practical experience, and passage of a qualifying exam (the Architect Registration Exam/ARE).  Visit the Washington State Department of Licensing for information on licensure for architects.

Career

Sky Needle and Seattle Music ExperienceAn architect must be knowledgeable in history, art, design, engineering and physics and must be able to manage and coordinate different groups of people towards a common goal--in other words, the work of an architect is very diverse. The majority of an architects time is spent in an office environment, but an architect is also required to make frequent trips to construction sites, client's locations and the outlet sources for the materials they intend to use. In modern times, computers and the internet have become increasingly important tools and labor savers in the architecture profession.

Related Career Fields

  • Architecture
  • Interior Design
  • Landscape Architecture
  • Civil Engineering
  • Building Construction
  • Urban and Industrial Planning

Want to become an architect?  Here are some resources to help you find the right path.

Seattle Architecture Foundation (1333 Fifth Ave, Rainier Square Atrium; 206-667-9184) and inquire about the schedule of inexpensive, two-hour guided tours.

AIA Seattle

Founded in 1894, AIA Seattle is a not-for-profit professional association of architects, allied professionals, and laypeople. AIA Seattle is committed to excellence in architecture and service to the public. AIA Seattle membership is open to anyone with a professional or personal interest in architectural practice, and in the creation or appreciation of the built environment. AIA Seattle operates as an IRS-designated 501(c)(6) corporation.

College of Architecture and Urban Planning, University of Washington

Top 10 Qualities of an Architect

Many other areas of study relate to architecture and may be further researched by visiting our partner sites: