Choosing the correct A Levels is a critical decision for students wanting to study for an architecture degree. Architecture is a multidisciplinary field, and one must have an eye for beauty, numerical accuracy, and an awareness of environment and humans’ requirements. As such, universities demand students with a strong background in both science and arts, critical thinking, and problem-solving methodologies. In this article, we will look at the most relevant A Level subjects for aspiring architects, as well as how to prepare for an architecture degree. More info.
Why Choosing the Right A Levels for Architecture is Needed
Architecture universities demand students with a mix of problem-solving and thinking capabilities. Not only will your A Level subjects make you qualified for admission, but your selection will serve as a starting point for your capabilities in your future studies and career.
Must Have A Level Subject for Architecture
Although individual requirements vary for universities, a specific group of A Level subjects is desired, even a necessity, for studying for an architecture degree and LearnNow can help. A Levels include :
1. Mathematics
For architects in the future, mathematics is a necessity for a compulsory field. It helps one develop an analysis and problem-solving skill that helps one comprehend engineering in structures, spaces, and buildings, and in general, numerical problem-solving in buildings and structures. Most courses in architecture demand a proper grasp of algebra, geometry, and trigonometry, significant in developing structures that not only work but have an aesthetic value too. Most universities will demand a specific grade in mathematics, and therefore, one must verify individual universities’ requirements.
2. Art and Design
Art and Design is a relevant A Level for architectural students. It will build your model-making, drawing, and sketching skills, architectural design fundamentals. Most universities require a portfolio of work at application, and studying an A Level in Art and Design is an ideal opportunity to build a strong portfolio. It will make a critical thinker in terms of thinking about communications, materials, and design.
3. Physics
A Level Physics is a relevant one for architectural studies, for an awareness of gravity, tension, and compression on buildings, and for an awareness of environmentally friendly, secure, and safe buildings. Physics is a necessity for safety and most universities have a preference, and sometimes a requirement for Physics in admissions, for courses with a high engineering and construction bias.
4. Design and Technology
Design and Technology is a relevant one for future architects. It combines creativity and technical expertise, and teaches about creating and designing a model, an awareness of materials, and an awareness of tools and computer packages or software packages. It is a relevant one for an awareness of technical drawing and an awareness of processes for production, and both will have a direct role in architectural practice.
A Level Recommendations
Apart from the compulsory ones, a selection of additional A Levels will make your application strong and a broader skill base for studying architecture:
1. History of Art
History of Art is an ideal option for students interested in architectural and cultural and historical background of buildings. It will make your studies in architecture easier and your critical thinking and analysis capabilities even sharper.
2. Geography
The geographical studies can apply in architectural studies in that it will make your studies in environment, urban planning, and sustainability even effective.
The geographical studies can become an effective tool for architects when architects become interested in creating environmentally friendly and sustainable buildings.
3. Further Mathematics
For math enthusiasts, Further Mathematics can become an effective additional module. It will make your studies in complex math even easier and can become an effective tool in complex analysis in structures and computational work.
4. English Literature or Language
Not an architectural module, but studying in English can make your communications capabilities even stronger, and communications capabilities matter in presenting your work, reporting, and working with your fellow students and employers.
Equilibrate your A Level Options
To choose your A Levels, try to have a mix of technical and creative subjects in your studies. Most universities appreciate candidates with at least one technical (for instance, Mathematics or Physics) and one creative (for instance, Art and Design) module in your studies. It proves your capabilities in thinking mathematically and thinking creatively, and both capabilities matter for a successful career in architectural studies.
Portfolio and Extracurricular Activities
In addition to your A Level subjects, most schools of architecture require a portfolio of work in your application form. Your portfolio must illustrate your architectural talent, your level of technical skill, and your level of inventiveness. Even when not taking an A Level in Art and Design, a portfolio can be developed through taking extracurricular artwork courses, participating in a design competition, or working individually for architectural-related work.
Extracurricular activities such as work shadowing, intern, taking part in architectural-related society groups, etc., can make your application even stronger. All such experiences will illustrate your level of awareness regarding your future career and your devotion towards your future career.
Conclusion
The choosing of your proper A Levels is a significant part of your path towards becoming an architect. By choosing a combination of both technical and thinking subjects, such as Mathematics, Art and Design, Physics, and Design and Technology, your future studies will have a strong foundation. In addition, studying complementary subjects such as History of Art, Geography, or Further Mathematics can develop your skill set and make your university application strong.Make proper analysis of your desired universities’ specific requirements for admission and work towards developing a strong portfolio showcasing your architectural talent and your level of inventiveness. With proper preparation and dedication, you will be well on your path towards a successful career in architecture.
