Is this programme for me?
This depends on your interest. Those who take up architecture are usually those who use the right side of their brain the most. These are the creative people.
You must know that studying Architecture is not about reading and writing all the time. You get to work with your hands. It is not only sketching and drawing but you get to build what you have planned on paper, for example building scale models. You get to see your drawings ‘come to life’. You must have a hands on approach when working on most of your assignments.
What will I learn?
This programme aims to equip students with solid foundation, relevant key skills and architectural knowledge to meet the requirements of LAM Part 1 qualification. The programme also exposes students to various fields in architecture available for the next level of studies.
IUKL’s Architecture programme is recognized for its hands-on approach. Students are exposed to the real working environment which includes exploration of materials and investigation of site and context.
Upon completion of their degree, graduates are qualified to pursue Part II equivalent professional degree. Graduate Architects can proceed to pursue the Part III Professional Examination after acquiring 2 years of practical experience prescribed by LAM. This will be the final step for all who aspire to be professional architects.
Upon passing the examination, a graduate can register as a Professional Architect with BAM and embark on a career as a Principle Architect, Principle Designer, or Assistant Architect.
Bachelor of Science
(Architectural Studies)
(6 months working experience @ architecture firm) |
Equivalent to
LAM PART I |
Master of Architecture
(6 months working experience @ architecture firm) |
Equivalent to
LAM PART II |
| Professional Examination |
Equivalent to
LAM PART II |
| Professional Architect (Title: Ar) |
Table: The complete pathway to become a Professional Architect
What will I do?
An architect plans and develops images to be constructed into an actual structure. He/she will be responsible for the whole process of each project given. From as early as the discussion stage, to planning, designing, communicating with clients, contractors, suppliers, engineers, interior designers and other related professionals, are part of what architects do.
An architect will be dealing with different projects and each project will be different. Taking that into account, an architect should be able to anticipate what they will face in each situation and they have to be prepared to face anything. This is an ability that one should have as they will provide professional services to individuals and organizations.
What is the most enjoyable part of the job?
An architect goes about designing buildings and other physical structures. The most satisfying part of the job is seeing your designs transform into real buildings. That will be the most enjoyable part of the job. It’s like seeing your dream come true before your own eyes. You not only contribute ideas but you get to work on it until the end where you get the satisfaction of being able to give something to the community. Designing and building schools and hospitals are one example.
What are the career prospects?
- Architecture Firm
- Private Practice
- Public Works Department
- City Council
- Contractors
- Developers
- Landscape Services
- Academia – Where you can become a lecturer
Specialisations
- Construction
- Building Materials
- Education
- Real Estate Development
- Urban Planning
- Interior Design
How much will I earn?
Your salary will depend on where you work. And it also depends on your qualification and experience.
The more experience you have, the more you will earn. Architects deals with different projects every now and then. The challenge will be different and you will not be repeating the exact same process every time. With a diverse experience, you will be more knowledgeable and capable to take up all sorts of tasks.
Is there any professional recognition for this programme?
Yes. This programme is accredited by the Board of Architects Malaysia as equivalent to its professional Part I qualification. Graduates may opt to pursue IUKL's Bachelor of Architecture (leading to LAM Part II qualification) or work in the architecture / built environment industry.
The Board of Architects Malaysia or Lembaga Arkitek Malaysia (LAM) is a statutory authority responsible for registration of Professional Architects, Architects and Building Draughtsmen. It conducts examinations for admission to the profession and accredits the relevant architectural programmes.
Are there any exemptions for the professional examination?
- Graduates with good portfolio in the Bachelor of Science (Architectural Studies) may apply for LAM Part I exemption from the Board of Architects Malaysia (LAM)
- Graduates with good portfolio in the Bachelor Architecture may apply LAM Part II exemption from the Board of Architects Malaysia (LAM)
- No exemptions for Professional Examination (Part III) ¨C Graduate Architect must have minimum 2 years working experience in an Architecture firm prior to the Professional Examination.
A word of advice
The work of an Architect is one of the most challenging, yet interesting. It is a profession in whcih one can grow to be a professional by exploring and experiencing a lot of things. You will acquire new knowledge from every project given to you which will enhance your problem solving abilities.
Architecture is a combination of a lot of things and if you are creative, architecture is a course that you will enjoy.
