Deciding between pursuing a career in architecture or engineering can be tough. Both professions have many responsibilities that are similar in nature and others that are different. Developing an understanding of what each profession entails can be beneficial when you are trying to choose between either. In this article, we shall explore the similarities and the differences between architecture and engineering that will help you determine why you should choose one over the other.
Personality traits
The personality differences between an architect and engineer can be determined on the basis of the manner in which they approach work. For instance, architects rely on creativity and visualization skills to come up with a concept for a design, whereas engineers use data and science to develop programs and/or provide solutions. In this respect, an architect may be seen as being more creative while an engineer is more scientific.
However, both architects and engineers need to be inventive when they are stuck in situations that do not have traditional solutions. Also, both should be practical in their combined efforts to design and develop a construction project and have to bear in mind the factors that would affect construction in the first place.
Approach to design
Design is a key component in both professions. The difference lies in the way in which each profession approaches to design. An architect is supposed to come up with the design and construct physical structures. An engineer, on the other hand, applies scientific rules to ensure that the design is operational. Both involve a practical approach to design, with the architect enjoying more freedom with innovation as opposed to the engineer.
Some exceptions apply. An engineer who is tasked with developing new technologies may have more artistic freedom than other engineers in exercising creative thinking skills. However, both engineers and architects should be able to adapt and refine their designs if required.
Licensing requirements
Licensing needs vary for both professions. An architect is required to pass the Architect Registration Examination to qualify for a license. Based on their area of expertise, an engineer may be required to obtain a professional license for engineers.
Costs
The manner in which each profession approaches cost estimates is also different. Where an architect has to work within a designated budget for construction costs, an engineer is required to take expense considerations in mind while providing cost estimates to an architect. Flexibility is necessary if a tight budget refrains an architect from doing a certain project.
Communication
As a profession, engineering is entirely technical and does not involve working with customers directly as much as architecture does. However, good communication skills are a requirement of every profession. Collaborating with co-workers on projects and to some level with clients is a part of every engineer’s job description. An engineer needs to be able to explain technical terms in everyday language to a prospective client who does not have an engineering background.
Similarly, an architect needs to be able to articulate how they can achieve a client’s vision in concrete terms. They also need to work closely with designers, other architects, engineers, and construction workers in directing project development. If you are trying to choose between a future in engineering or architecture, communication is one of the skills you should consider. If you are better at working with people, you might consider being an architect. If you are more analytical by nature and do not feel at ease with interacting with others, engineering might be a better option for you.
Career avenues
Both disciplines offer multiple professional avenues for an aspirant. An architect can choose to design residential, commercial or government properties or work as a consultant for architectural firms. Urban planning, interior design, building design, graphic design, and city planning are some of the professions architects commonly have.
Engineers can choose an area of specialization from among chemical, civil, electrical, and mechanical. Within these disciplines, there are multiple sub-disciplines like sound engineering, thermal engineering, nuclear engineering, etc., that engineers can opt to pursue.
Educational requirement
Due to the nature of the work performed, both architects and engineers need to receive education and rigorous training. Architects typically need to study a five-year degree, do a three-year practical training component, and pass the Architect Registration Examination to qualify as an architect. Recognised engineering degree programs have a four-year bachelor’s degree requirement with options for getting an advanced degree like a Master’s or a Ph.D. The higher the degree that you have, the better the pay will be in the engineering profession.
Whether you choose a career in architecture or engineering, remember to get protection through insurance. Consider obtaining your architect and engineers liability insurance today.
