The AAS degree in Architecture can help you to acquire the credentials necessary to practice Architecture, but there are many other career directions you can take following the study of architecture. The following is a list of just a few:
Animator, Architectural Engineer, Architectural Historian, Building Contractor, Building Inspector, CAD Manager, Carpenter, Cartographer, Civil Engineer, Construction Project Manager, Environmental Engineer, Fashion Designer, Furniture Designer, Game Designer, Historic Preservationist, Illustrator, Industrial Designer, Interior Designer, Industrial Engineer, Landscape Architect, LEED Specialist, Lighting Design, Manufacturing Technologist, Mechanical Engineer, Model Maker, Naval Architect, Real Estate Appraiser, Set Designer, Surveyor, Teacher / Professor, Urban Planner
The first two years of education for Architecture, Interior Architecture / Interior Design, and Landscape Architecture are similar. The coursework and projects provide students with a broad basis for understanding design. The emphasis for all three career paths is the design of environments for habitation.
Careers in those design fields require several years of preparations. It is not necessarily required to hold a license or be registered in your chosen design field. You will be able to find employment working for other design professionals, and you may have a successful career as a designer. However, holding a license or being registered has many advantages which include:
The title you can use. For example, in the State of Illinois you can only use the title of Architect if you are licensed.
The salary that you earn. Licensed or registered professionals tend to earn higher salaries.
The ability to complete projects. In some jurisdictions a licensed or registered design professional is required.
The extent of responsibilities you have. Licensed or registered professionals tend to be granted greater responsibilities.
Requirements for professional licensure or registration vary from state to state. The credentials below are required in the State of Illinois. For more details visit the Professions Regulated page on the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation website.
Architecture
The requirements for licensure in Illinois are:
Degree from an program accredited by the National Architecture Accrediting Board.
Completion of the Architecture Experience Program.
Successful completion of the Architectural Registration Examination.
Interior Architecture or Interior Design
There are a number of paths that allow a candidate to become a Registered Interior Designer. They include a combination of experience, education and examination. The American Society of Interior Designers has information about requirements in the State of Illinois.
A degree from an accredited interior design program is not required in all states, but recommended by the Council for Interior Design Accreditation.
Successful completion of the National Council for Interior Design Qualification can also help you to acquire the status of Registered Interior Designer.
Landscape Architecture
The requirements for Landscape Architects also vary by state. In Illinois the requirements are:
Degree from a program accredited by the Landscape Architectural Accreditation Board.
Completion of two years of experience working under the supervision of a licensed Landscape Architect, Architect or Engineer. One year is required for applicants who hold a master's degree in landscape architecture.
Successful completion of the Landscape Architecture Registration Examination.