Should I stick with architecture because I’ve heard some pretty negative stuff 😓

6

I like design and my maths is pretty decent and I’ve finished my personal statement for it, however now I’m having second thoughts. I’ve heard some pretty mixed things some websites state that they get paid decently well but a lot of people have to been saying that’s a lie and they actually get paid pretty little for the amount of debt they rack up with the 7-8 years of study. (+ the lack of sleep and social life)

Now with that being said I’m now contemplating weather to switch to some sort of engineering just for the money and financial stability eventhough I’m not all that interested. Can someone tell me if it’s actually worth it and if it’s as bad as they say or should I switch to engineering?🙏

Reply 1

normaw

Volunteer Section Leader, Clearing and Applications Advisor

20

Original post

by Hktli0

I like design and my maths is pretty decent and I’ve finished my personal statement for it, however now I’m having second thoughts. I’ve heard some pretty mixed things some websites state that they get paid decently well but a lot of people have to been saying that’s a lie and they actually get paid pretty little for the amount of debt they rack up with the 7-8 years of study. (+ the lack of sleep and social life)

Now with that being said I’m now contemplating weather to switch to some sort of engineering just for the money and financial stability eventhough I’m not all that interested. Can someone tell me if it’s actually worth it and if it’s as bad as they say or should I switch to engineering?🙏

Have a look at the following articles from RIBA:

https://recruiters.architecture.com/static-page/10291/salary-guide

https://www.ribaj.com/intelligence/employment-and-earnings-falling-salaries-prompt-deeper-study-of-income-differentials

In general, architecture salaries aren't great compared with a lot of other professions and they have been regressing:

While the foundation reported a stalling in pay progression across the broader workforce, architects’ pay has actually regressed. For example, a 38-year-old architect today earns £48,500, whereas five years ago, an architect of the same age would have earned £50,000 (adjusted for inflation), and 15 years ago, nearly £65,000 (again in today’s prices).

Only you can decide if the course and a future in architecture is right for you, but don't pick a career that doesn't appeal to you. Have you looked at other possible careers such as urban planning and design, product design, UX designer, etc. If you're not sure about your future, consider a gap year to work it out. The following website is a very good careers resource:

https://www.prospects.ac.uk/

Reply 2

University of Strathclyde

Official Rep

15

Original post

by Hktli0

I like design and my maths is pretty decent and I’ve finished my personal statement for it, however now I’m having second thoughts. I’ve heard some pretty mixed things some websites state that they get paid decently well but a lot of people have to been saying that’s a lie and they actually get paid pretty little for the amount of debt they rack up with the 7-8 years of study. (+ the lack of sleep and social life)
Now with that being said I’m now contemplating weather to switch to some sort of engineering just for the money and financial stability eventhough I’m not all that interested. Can someone tell me if it’s actually worth it and if it’s as bad as they say or should I switch to engineering?🙏

Hey @Hktli0 🤗 What interested you about Architecture in the first place - was it the overall career/salary prospects/general day to day work for example? You're right - it's a long route in to qualifying so it's important you have a clear idea of why you're excited to do it, and what's ahead once you complete your studies.

Maybe it's worth trying to chat to a recently qualified Architect to see if they'd be happy to share some of their experiences with you? Have a look on a web search and see if any local firms have a phone number you can ring - maybe you could get in touch and see if they can spare 10 minutes or so to have a chat?

I'd say if Engineering isn't ticking any of your boxes and you're not overly interested in it - it's probably not the best route to go for. Like has been said above - don't go down a path that isn't appealing to you right now (not the best start to a happy career!). Don't stress if you do decide to do more research and end up changing your mind - you've still got time 🙂

Caitlin 🎓️
Official University of Strathclyde Rep

Should I stick with architecture because I’ve heard some pretty negative stuff 😓

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