
Successful admission to architecture programs requires the submission of a portfolio of work to assess the student's abilities and creative skills.
Today, the profession of architecture is in demand in many countries. The specialty combines various fields of knowledge - art, science, and technology. Students range from mathematics and logic to fine arts and subjects related to creative industries. This diversification of the educational process allows graduates to quickly pursue careers not only in architecture but also in various related fields - business, industry, and technology.
After graduation, many architects work individually or in associations, as is common in the practice of law, but there are also those who go to large corporations on fixed salaries. Graduates have the opportunity to specialize in different areas, such as residential architecture or the design of commercial and office centers.
Although high scores in math and science fields are required for admission into architecture programs, a creative and well-rounded portfolio is crucial, allowing admissions officers to assess the potential of an architect-to-be.
How Do You Create A Successful Portfolio?
1. Presenting Your Work
Whether you intend to present your work on a writing assignment or through one of the many digital media available on the internet, you should avoid using flashy, colorful artwork. It's better to present your work in a simple and concise format, with easy navigation through the portfolio. The focus should be on the content rather than on the design of a digital platform, site, or folder with works.
2. Sufficient Number Of Works And Variety Of Styles
A good portfolio should showcase different facets of your work and the style of projects. The ideal is to have works that reflect the major milestones in your career:
1/3 of the work done while you were a student if you've already taken any architecture courses,
1/3 of the works completed during a period of work or an apprenticeship (even a short period),
1/3rd of the work done in your own time, showing your passion for architecture.
Most universities advise you to have 9 to 12 pieces of work in your portfolio.
3. Descriptions
Works should have short and clear descriptions: type of project, year, technique, where, and for what occasion the project was done.
4. Sketches And Hand Drawings
Most architects believe that in their profession it is absolutely necessary to be able to make quick sketches by hand. Therefore, you should definitely include such sketches in your portfolio. In addition, such drawings show the course of your thoughts while working on the project.
5. Having A Definite System In Your Portfolio
A successful portfolio isn't a collection of jumbled papers, but a cohesive and logical story of your creative development. Try to form a system by which you arrange your work. Start with the strongest examples and end with the strongest ones, but be sure to have less successful projects in the middle, so that your professors can form an objective opinion of your skills.
We recommend that you take a look at the architecture programs of the following universities:
- University of Southampton
- University of Kent
- Northumbria University
- De Montfort University
- University of Greenwich
- University of Central Lancashire