Jill
About architure
Well is it true that the math and other units of architecture is really hard??? What type of math there is? Will there be a lot of making model structure?
Will there be a lot of reports? I really wanted to take up architecture but the math scares me ,makes me think to just change career choice. Any suggestions that has math and art in it? #mathematics #architecture #mathematics-education #artists #architectural-design #interior-architecture #teachers #arti
3 answers
Laura Lucas
Laura’s Answer
Jill - don’t overthink on the math- the math for an architecture degree is not much different than other technical degrees. It is the problem solving skills from math that you will find most useful . But the bigger issue I have found from counseling students considering architecture is whether you can visualize 3D... as an architect you are creating spaces - deciding height - length - width to meet specific functions (like a basketball court) or to create a specific feeling ( like a cozy bedroom). If you like design and see and think visually but not in 3D there are other design opportunities like graphic design you could do. Good luck
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ABDUL WAHAAB
ABDUL’s Answer
Hi Jill,
Basic math is helpful sure, but I don’t think “good at math” is one of the more important qualities for an architect. We all draw in the computer now so I find half the time I’m using a distance command to find out the height of an 8′ ceiling + 2′ structure because my mind is more fixed on design than math at that point anyway.
One’s math ability should never be the factor that keeps them out of architecture. However, one needs to be adept at math, namely algebra, geometry and trigonometry, to deal with the array of dimensions, quantities, area, volume and other geometric relationships. This plays into spatial thinking and patterns. The higher, more complex areas of math such as calculus hinder many students, but it is the logic pattern of math such as this that is a critical tool in the mind of an architect. I’ve never used calculus in my job, but developing logical patterns to solve problems is a daily event..
Not really. If you understand general geometry and physics you are good; having addition, subtraction, multiplication and sometimes division skills are encouraged. Aspiring architects should challenge themselves with as much math as they can handle (plus the class one further than they can handle). Math teaches and develops analytical problem solving skills, at our core architects are problem solvers. We use what we experience from history, art, physics, life, architecture and yes math to influence our solutions to our problems projects.
I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.
Naomi María Szczesiul Coale
Naomi María’s Answer
You will need maths in architecture. Like it was mentioned before the drawings are done on the computer, but you will still need to rely on your maths knowledge in many parts the architecture program, namely for structural physics courses where you will learn how to do the calculations to make sure the building materials you will be using will be strong enough so the building or bridge doesn't collapse on itself, can stay in one piece in earthquakes up to a certain strength, and not get blown over in high winds like typhoons. Your degree program will likely require you to take maths courses up to a certain subject level, but that will vary by university. You don't have to like maths, but you will need to use them!
Another direction you might consider if you want to combine maths and art, would be a design degree or a new media/technology degree focusing on front-end development where you can build websites and apps. Game design could be another education and career path to look into.
Good luck!