What minor should I choose with a master's in architecture?
I plan to major in architecture and was wondering what minors would go along with architecture. I plan to become a certified architect and have my own firm. I know business would be a good minor, but are there any others? #architect #architecture #architecture-and-planning #college-minor #majors-and-minors #double-minor
3 answers
Andrew’s Answer
Audra - Exciting that you are pursing a career in architecture and that you already have ambitions to become licensed and run a firm! I recently formed my own firm, and you are correct that a business minor would be a good - if not great - option for a future firm owner. As you are exploring schools, you should ask about their "professional practice" courses to get an idea of how much they cover regarding the business of architecture. How to start or run a firm is not often covered in these courses, and that's where the business minor could come in handy. I also know some schools offer a 1-year Masters in Business Administration (MBA) program that could be completed in tandem with your undergraduate degree. Be warned that this could be a large course load, but is manageable with the right attitude.
Other than business, you could look at a minor in Construction Management or a minor in Project Management as those will give you a deeper understanding of the construction process and how to manage billings, hours, marketing, etc. After school, I went to work for a general contractor for a few years, and I learned more about the process of building and business management than in school. Experience matters!
The field of architecture is super creative and grows more diverse as technology evolves, so don't shy away from exploring options that help you explore fine arts, computer programming, or other forms of artistic expression.
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Virginia’s Answer
Hi Audra! Looks like you have received some great tips! I recently graduated with a bachelors degree in science of architecture, and now applying for my masters. From my experience, I know in your undergrad you can take minors, but you cannot take minors in graduate school (masters). Although this differs per school and program as some graduate schools allow dual degree in masters.
In order to get your license, some states require that you get your degree from a college that is accredited by the <span style="color: rgb(85, 85, 85);">National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). If the university is accredited by NAAB you might only have to do five years of school and are still able to move forward to get your license; Essentially that fifth year would be like one year in a masters program and you graduate with an M.Arch. If a university is not accredited by NAAB, then you will need to complete their four years of undergrad then apply for graduate school, and depending on school could be 1-2 years. </span>
During undergrad, many fellow classmates took a minor in business. If your school of choice offers a minor in construction science/ management then that would be a great option as well. Another route I have seen student's take is they obtain a bachelors degree in a related field (interior design, architectural engineering, construction, etc.) and then apply for a masters of architecture. This may mean that your masters program could be 2-3 years.
I hope this information helps or clarifies any doubts. Wish you all the best of luck!
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Osama’s Answer
In my opinion one of those minors will be good choices with a master's in architecture:
Construction Management
Landscape Architecture
Urban Design + Planning