How to Become an Architect in Kenya and salary expectation

In this article, you will be able on learn on who an Architect is, the skills needed to become one, the education background of this career, job related information among much more.

Who is an Architect?

This is a person who plans, designs and reviews the construction of buildings. These professionals provides services in connection with the designs of buildings and the space within the site surrounding the buildings.

The guideline on how to become an Architect are;

1. Completing your education
2. Training
3. Acquiring work experience
4. Joining a trade association

Levels of Education Desired: Degree/Diploma in Architecture

Field of Study: Mathematics, English, Physics, Architecture, Building construction

Key Skills: Creative mind, extremely gifted in drawing, Analytical skills, detail oriented, team work, punctuality, problem solving, communication, visualization, organization skills, technical skills among others

Architect Salary Expectation

Fresh graduates, earn Ksh 70,000-150,000 monthly, with experience earns up to 2million in a month

What does an Architect do?

Prepares project preliminary costs and estimates, manages construction contracts among other duties, presents the project to the client and other project professionals, prepares scaled drawings either by computer or hand, supervises construction process, Controls construction budgets, prepares contact document for building constructors

Steps of becoming an Architect in Kenya

• Education

To secure an entry in university to pursue architecture as a government sponsored student, you must score at least a B+ in KCSE with at least a B+ in Mathematics and above B plain in Science subjects. For one to qualify for a Self-Sponsored Program, they have to score at least a C+ in KCSE. A Bachelor’s degree is the basic requirement of becoming an architect.

Apart from undergraduate, you can also pursue architecture at post graduate level. Ensure the university you are going has been accredited in offering the course.

• Certificate

Upon graduation, you need to practice for at least 18 months under a registered architect. Thereafter, you’ll be required to sit for a professional exam administered by the Board of Registration for Architects and Quantity Surveyors. On successful completion of your practice, you then apply for an operating license.

• Job opportunities

Once you are registered and given your license by The Architectural Association of Kenya (AAK), you will be able to secure jobs in local and international design and construction companies, engineering companies, building construction companies, research organizations, manufacturing firms, architectural firms, other organizations such as National Construction Authority, Cytonn Investment, Ministry of Transport, Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development, Lands Commission, Private Sector or opt to start your own firm.

• Group Association

Being part of The Architectural Association of Kenya (AAK), provides you with various benefits such as networking, educational and job opportunities.

Schools of Offering Architectural Courses in Kenya

The accredited institutions for Bachelor’s and Post Graduate studies are; University of Nairobi, JKUAT, Kenyatta University. While Diploma Level, are; Kenya Institute of Highway and Building Technology, Technical University of Kenya, and Rift Valley Institute of Science and Technology.

To search further about The Architectural Association of Kenya (AAK), open this link https://apsea.or.ke/

If you are looking for inspiration, here is a list of the best Architects in Kenya