Design career

How to become a Architect

Also called Project Architect, Design Architect

Courses that lead here Explore other careers

What does a Architect do?

Architects design buildings and spaces that are safe, useful and beautiful. In India only people registered with the Council of Architecture under the Architects Act, 1972 may use the title ‘Architect’.

An architect meets clients, studies the site, draws design ideas, prepares detailed drawings and models and coordinates with engineers and contractors while the building goes up.

In India architects work in design studios, construction and real-estate firms, town planning bodies and government public works departments, or run their own practice.

How to get there

  1. Class 10Build Mathematics and drawing skills
  2. Class 11–12Take Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics (a 10+3 diploma with Mathematics is also accepted)
  3. EntranceQualify NATA or JEE Main Paper 2 as required by the institution
  4. UGComplete the five-year B.Arch at a recognised institution
  5. First roleRegister with the Council of Architecture and join a practice as a junior architect
Subjects in Classes 11–12
Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry
Minimum education
UG

Courses that lead here

UG

Bachelor of Architecture

B.Arch · 5 years · Architecture

B.Arch is a five-year professional degree in architecture. The Council of Architecture sets minimum standards, and graduates register with it to practise…

Offered by 62 colleges
PG

Master of Architecture

M.Arch · 2 years · Architecture

M.Arch is a two-year postgraduate degree for architects who want to specialise in areas such as urban design, landscape, conservation or sustainable…

Offered by 15 colleges
Doctoral

Doctor of Philosophy

PhD · 3 years · Science

PhD is the highest research degree. Under UGC's 2022 regulations it takes at least three years, including coursework, and up to six…

Offered by 618 colleges

Further study

Colleges for these courses

Skills you need

  • Architectural design
  • Building codes
  • CAD and 3D modelling
  • Client communication
  • Drawing and sketching

It suits people who are

  • Creative
  • Visual thinker
  • Detail-oriented
  • Good listener

Where you work and how you grow

Where people work

  • Architecture studios
  • Real-estate and construction firms
  • Town planning bodies
  • Own practice

Growth path

  1. Junior architect → Project architect → Senior architect → Associate or partner → Principal of own firm

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to register to call myself an architect?

Yes. The Council of Architecture says a person must register with it to practise as an architect, and only registered persons may use the title and style of Architect.

Can a company practise as architects?

No. The Council says limited companies, private or public companies and societies cannot use the title or practise architecture

Sources

Information verified on 10 Oct 2026

  1. Council of Architecture - Registration and title of Architect · Official site, accessed 10 Oct 2026
  2. Enforcement of Architects Act, 1972 regarding issue of licences by local authorities · Official notice, accessed 10 Oct 2026
  3. Architectural Education - Council of Architecture · Official site, accessed 10 Oct 2026
  4. AICTE Approved Courses - Eligibility Criteria and Duration 2025-26, Sardar Beant Singh State University · Official notice, accessed 10 Oct 2026

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