| Is an Associates Degree in CAD design a good step toward Architecture?

Is an Associates Degree in CAD design a good step toward Architecture?

MSB asked:


Or would I be wasting time? Going through a divorce, full-time mom, and hoping to ramp up quickly. I’m very smart and always thought I’d enjoy architecture, background in software.

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Comments

3 Responses to “Is an Associates Degree in CAD design a good step toward Architecture?”

  1. dNbBabe on June 3rd, 2009 9:21 am

    sure! my brother studied CAD design, and now he`s an engineer at some company in the States. and he got to have that kind of a position just after 4-5 months…and he doesn`t even speak english very well….

  2. exterminar on June 3rd, 2009 6:44 pm

    Be VERY careful about what you want. If you really want to pursue a career as an architect you HAVE to get a degree from an acredited university. Therefore, that specific university that you decide on will require you to complete a certain amount of courses. While getting an Associates Degree in CAD, would ultimately help you be a great architect it might not meet the class requirements to complete a degree in Architecture an ultimately you’d be wasting your time. Seeing that you have very little time, I would recommend you take time to look up universities that you might attend and check out what Associate Degrees they accept towards a successful completion of a degree in architecture and what colleges they have partnerships with. This will ensure that you optimize the value of your education and your budget.

  3. jefftolentino on June 4th, 2009 12:43 pm

    The answers given above are both good.

    You should note that there are many ways to work in the field. If you want to be a licensed architect, you will need a four year degree and pass a state examination. This will allow you to sign off as an architect on drawings. Many firms allow drafters and junior designers to do extensive design work, which is then checked and signed off on by licensed architects. Pay scales then reflect liability.

    If you do an associates program in drafting, try and take a few extra courses on construction management, building materials, welding, inspections, and/or surveying. The more experience you have in the building field, the better off you’ll be. Working for a contractor is great experience too. Make sure you’ve gotten your hands dirty (just make sure you wash ‘em off before you interview).

    You should also look into the market around your area. Has your city been growing significantly? Check craigslist for current openings. Riding in on a building boom tends to help.

    Good luck