If you grew up using blocks, Lincoln Logs, and Legos to build well planned and sturdy structures you may have a desire to turn your skills into a career. Just about every building you see started as an idea and was carefully designed by a creative person who may have completed an Associate's Degree in Architecture.
Associate's Degree in Architecture
If your career goal is to become an architect it will not be able to be achieved with a basic 2 year Associate's Degree in Architecture. However an Architecture Associate's Degree will provide you with the foundational knowledge of building and design which will prepare you to start an entry level career or put you on the road to a more advanced 4 year bachelor's degree in architecture.
An Associate's Degree in Architecture, also commonly referred to in many technical and vocational schools as an Associate's Degree in Architecture Engineering Technology, trains you in the methods and practical skills that are used to design and create buildings and structures. You will learn how to use computer programs to design buildings as well as knowledge about building materials, cost estimations, and measuring techniques.
Coursework
There are a variety of campus and online Associate's Degree in Architecture programs available. The classes you take will depend on which college you choose to attend and whether you will take most classes online or have more opportunity for hands-on practice. Some of the basic courses offered within most architecture associate's degree programs include:
- Computer Aided Design(CAD)
- Cost Estimating
- Construction Systems
- Building Codes
- Building Materials
- Construction Methods
Degree Programs
While an Architecture Associate's Degree will give you the foundational knowledge to design and build almost any kind of structure there are several degrees within the architecture field that are more specific to a certain aspect of architecture you may be interested in pursuing.
- Associate's Degree in Kitchen and Bath Design
- Online Associate's Degree in Drafting Technology and Design
- Associate's Degree in Building Information Modeling
- Associate's Degree in Interior Design Online
- Associate's Degree in Construction Technology
Finding a Career
Once you graduate with your Associate's Degree in Architecture you will be able to work in many architecture or engineering agencies in an entry level position. Career options consist of:
- Architect Assistant
- Computer Aided Design Drafter
- Carpenter
- Municipal Planner
- Architect Technician
- Building Estimator
