Some countries, however, adopt a different system. Earning the title of architect in Switzerland, for instance, is not regulated or controlled. In other words, you can begin working in an architecture firm long before you earn a certified license. This is due to the fact that the country does not impose strict licensing on this domain. Students can begin working in the architecture field as long as they have obtained proper drafting skills and learned all about the Swiss building codes. However, membership in the Swiss Society of Engineers and Architects (SIA) requires architects to have the relevant degrees, typically requiring a total of 5 years of study.
Countries such as Ireland, France, and Germany do not impose an official exam or colloquium to become a licensed architect. In Germany, the title of architect is legally limited to those registered with a provincial Chamber of Architects. To be a part of the chamber, one must complete 4 years of architecture school, followed by a higher education diploma, and extensive experience under the supervision of a registered architect. In France (contrary to the above graphic by the Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture) architects must study a 3-year degree followed by a 2-year diploma, then complete one year of professional practice.
Architects in India can earn their place in the Indian Council of Architecture as soon as they finish a minimum of five years of architecture studies, which includes one year working in an internship as part of the course. Similarly in Brazil the 5-year course includes a minimum of 6 months working in practice as part of the degree.
In some countries, such as Mexico and Lebanon, neither an official exam nor professional experience is necessary to become a licensed architect. In Lebanon, the requirements are rather simple: Five or more years of architecture studies, an approximate amount of $3,000 USD, and you are qualified to become a certified architect.
Nobody said embarking on a career in architecture would be easy, but it is definitely worth every struggle.
