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Architecture?

I'm nearly certain that architecture is the career for me but I want to know what I might be getting myself into. Might sound strange but I LOVE physics and art, so I think I'd have the passion for this kind of work. I aim to please in everything I do and I love working with people. I live in Canada so how would the job prospects be? Career trends in the future perhaps? Also, opionions on the different universities would be great (Considering Waterloo, McGill, University of Toronto...open to others as well). Tips on the portfolio you need for the interview? (Working on mine currently) Any information and opinions would be appreciated :) Thanks

Public Comments

1. http://www.archsoc.com/kcas/researchschool5.html (rankings) http://www.chu.cam.ac.uk/admissions/undergraduates/courses/architecture/ (portfolio question) if you like math and art, this might be the perfect field for you. good luck i would suggest you go to the AIA.org website (american institute of architecture) and find the Canadian sister site and organization. also, you can join forums and get the inside scoop from the practicing architects too.
2. If physics and art are your passions go with one of them. I chose architecture because I love designing houses and that kids will grow up in them and cherish those memories for the rest of their lives. But that's me, I didn't do it for the money.
3. There are a couple types of architecture schools. One focuses on the technology and practice of architecture, this is math, computer, and engineering oriented. The other is very theory based. This one focuses on history, art, and the idea of architecture as a discipline with a history and a knowlege base specific to that history. There is of course overlap between the two. I went to the second type of school, but benefited from many years before school working in construction and facilities management. There are also, two types of architecture firms, the ones that pump out drawings of what their client tells them to draw, and the service they provide is expertise in building codes, construction administration, the economics of building, etc. and the ones that try to use each client as an opportunity to insert their own ideas of what architecture means into the world. Of the two types of schools both have their merrits, but I would say this: it's much easier to learn the practice of architecture (that's how to draw, how to use AutoCAD, how to write a budget, etc...) while working then it is to learn the theory of architecture (what's the difference between Venturi and Eisenman, how does MVRDV differ from OMA) while working. Good luck with your career.