Architecture is the combination of creative thinking, aesthetic sense, technical know-how, and technical ability. Architectural projects, in the conventional material form such as houses, can be perceived as artistic works and as visual symbols. Architecture has been around since time immemorial. However, in recent times architecture has gained much more popularity and acceptance among people owing to various changes in its design and application as well as to the changes in its social context. Architecture projects are usually carried out by professional architects who have obtained professional degrees such as architectural engineering, architectural management, and landscape architecture. Besides these, there are many architects who are self-employed, working independently, or have set up their own firms.
Although architecture is a widely practiced profession, very few people get involved in this field because of the rather stiff competition that exists within the industry. Usually individuals who wish to practice architecture need to have at least a bachelor’s degree in architecture before they can pursue a career as an architect. In spite of this, there are still many architects who do not have any formal training or education in architecture. Some of them may have an interest in learning about building practices and construction, but lack the necessary discipline and motivation to carry out their plans. This often leads to poor quality work, costly mistakes, and finally failure of the project.
However, there are some organizations that allow architects to pursue a career as an architect without having to enroll in an architectural school or college. These organizations usually provide short-term contracts for the practice of architects in construction firms. After successfully completing the projects, the individual is allowed to become an independent contractor. A lot of people nowadays opt for this option because it does not require them to obtain any sort of formal education or training before they could practice as an architect.