If you think the architect's life is not the one for you, but you are still interested in a career involved in the design of buildings, there are other options such as structural engineer, landscape architect, regional or urban planner or an architectural technician.
The RIAI recognises diploma courses in architectural technology at Cork IT, Waterford IT and DIT. An architectural technician works as part of an architect's team and often specialises in areas such as computer-aided design (CAD) management, materials, or buildings regulations.
The DIT does allow transfer from architectural technology to the architecture course for "exceptional students" but it is also only possible to transfer to architecture if a place becomes available, i.e. if another student drops out. DIT emphasises that architectural technology is a career in itself and warns students not to "hedge their bets" in choosing architectural technology as a route to architecture. UCD also sets aside four or five places each year for students with architecture related experience and qualifications.
Due to the vocational nature of architecture the RIAI strongly advises that if you are planing a career in architecture or architectural technology that you get some work experience in a architect's practise.
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