Architecture programs prepare students to design various types of structures though teaching architectural theory, history, and design. Students enrolled in such programs study project and site planning, learn about construction and building codes, and study the social values and issues that can influence design. Architecture has been called 'frozen music,' www.iseek.org, because the art of building can be truly beautiful - the trick is to find the right blend of inspiration and practical design for each client's budget. There are around 150 accredited schools of architecture in the U.S. offer a bachelor's degree, and most programs take five years to complete. With a degree in architecture studies you could work as an urban planner, construction manager, or architect.

Urban Planner

Urban planners decide how to best utilize the land within an area. This may require redevelopment of existing areas, or the use of previously undeveloped areas. Urban planners are responsible for seeing the big picture and ensuring that construction companies make offices and housing, roads, highways and public transportation systems available to new developments. They also ensure that there is enough 'green space' and recreational facilities for those who work and live in the area. The vast majority of urban planners work for government offices, in fact 7 out of 10 urban planners work for local government. Senior posts may require extensive training and further qualifications. Median annual earnings in 2002 were $49,880 in 2002.

Construction Manager.

While construction managers play no actual part in the construction of buildings themselves, they help to plan and co-ordinate resources, labor, specialist services, plant, and building material to the site. They may be employed by the owner or developer, or they could be employed by the construction firm. Construction managers spend a fair proportion of time on construction sites overseeing the logistics of building material delivery, and work of specialist contract workers e.g. elevator or kitchen installers. They make sure that all work is carried out in an orderly and timely fashion, and that it meets quality requirements. They are generally responsible for health and safety and making sure that required permits and licenses have been obtained. Construction managers' salaries are in the region of $58,800 to $62,300 per year.

Architect

Architects are involved in planning and designing commercial, industrial and domestic buildings and living spaces. The day to day work is generally in a comfortable office during standard office hours. Architects may spend a lot of time consulting with clients, designing buildings, writing reports, creating drawings, plans, and blueprints. They may also co-work with other architects or engineers in order to complete certain aspects of the design such as heating, ventilation, or elevator systems. Architects may also visit the construction site to monitor progress or solve any problems. Occasionally there could be a need to work evenings and weekends to complete projects inside forecast timelines. Some states require licensure to practice, most require ARE qualifications, so additional education or certification may be needed. Median earnings of architects were $56,620 per year in 2002.

For more information about the field of Architectural studies and its related careers, visit iSeek, www.iseek.org, or the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, www.BLS.gov.