Using your degree: Architecture

What do Cambridge graduates do?

Cambridge Architects find their way into a range of careers. Key employment sectors are typically engineering and architectural consultancy, as well as construction, education, the arts, public service and manufacturing.

Looking at the most recent survey of graduates, the top three sectors that Cambridge graduates joined were Engineering and Architectural consultancy 51%, Manufacturing 6%, Public Service 2%. 12% went onto further study.

Will employers want my degree?

Where employers are looking for to hire graduates who are completing the architecture qualifications the degree will be essential. If you are applying to employers outside of the sector your degree will still be useful. The majority of employers that recruit Cambridge graduates do not require a certain degree. They are usually more interested in what you can do rather than what you have studied. Want to know what role would suit you? Transferable skills from an Architecture degree can include: numeracy, design, drawing, IT skills (especially computer-aided design CAD), project management skills, the ability to solve problems in an analytical/logical and creative way, ability to work as part of team.

Try looking for ideas for help with identifying your personal strengths and preferences. Then search Handshake for internships, jobs or graduate schemes you are interested in. Note the selection criteria that usually focus on "competencies” rather than having studied a certain subject and see which ones are a good fit.

Using my degree

Architecture graduates who want to use their degree often think about working in engineering or architectural consultancy, design or management consultancy, education, the arts, heritage or media. Be aware that all of these sectors have a wide variety of roles. So if you are interested in a certain sector think about what you are good at and which roles might be a good fit for you. Research sectors. Network with alumni who studied architecture. You can see what they do, their career to date and contact them for further information. Use LinkedIn in a similar way.