How an Architecture Major Prepares You for the Job Market
An architecture degree prepares students to enter many diverse careers that require imagination, artistic talent and science skills. Architecture students take classes in various subjects to develop a well-rounded education. They will study design, architectural engineering and project and site planning to learn industry-specific information and technical skills. Architecture programs also emphasize mathematics and science courses, which expand their technical and drafting knowledge. Students will gain hands-on experience building models, drafting building ideas, researching and writing essays, as well as studying architecture history and styles. They will gain a better understanding of how to preserve and restore old buildings, and learn about the role buildings, skyscrapers and houses play in society and individual's lives.

Best Career Paths for Architecture Majors
Architecture graduates have the technical skills and training to enter many architecture and art-related fields, including these top career paths:

• Architect. Architects plan, design and oversee the construction of buildings, houses and skyscrapers. Architects are not only concerned with a building's looks, but also with its safety and strength. They are constantly visualizing plans and considering the needs of the people who use the buildings they design. Architects work with clients to determine what they want and weigh any environmental or physical risks involved with each project. Once the project has been approved, architects start the many stages of constructing a building. They will hand draw or use computers to design the final blueprints of a building, which includes the foundational structure, materials and machinery needed for construction. Their blueprints show how the building will look and how it will be built. In order to be a licensed architect, graduates must meet the requirements of their state of residence, which are typically determined by education, experience and examination. Architects made an average salary of $70,320 in 2008, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
• Drafter. Drafters draw technical plans and designs to assist production and construction workers in building various structures and items. These visual guidelines include technical details, such as specific materials, measurements and calculations that will be used to make a product or structure. Drafters consult with engineers, scientists and architects to complete rough sketches. They are well versed in building techniques, design elements and engineering and manufacturing theories, all of which help in completing their intricate drawings. Drafters use Computer Aided Design and Drafting (CADD) programs to plan their drawings, make adjustments and ensure easy access to their designs. They also use technical handbooks, calculators, tables, state-of-the-art computers, as well as their knowledge of drafting techniques to do their drawings and explain their processes. Drafters' salaries depend greatly on their location, specialty and responsibilities. Drafters, who worked in civil and architectural drafting, made an average salary of $44,490 in 2008, according to the Bureau.

How to Market Your Architecture Degree
You can market your architecture degree by promoting your artistic skills and technical knowledge. As an architecture graduate, you can promote your passion and ability to imagine, draft and create buildings through individual and group work. You have original and applicable artistic skills that can be used in various areas. Most importantly, you have the willingness and drive to create safe, strong and aesthetically pleasing buildings that will serve peoples' needs for years.