FROM SCHOOL TO OFFICE: RECENT GRADUATES’ PERCEPTIONS OF ARCHITECTURAL EDUCATION AND PRACTICE

ABSTRACT We relate the findings of a survey of architecture school graduates wherein we investigate the relationship between education and practice and provide suggestions for bringing the two worlds closer together. Following a literature review, we present a questionnaire asking alumni to describe their understanding of practice gained while in school, their sense of preparation when entering the profession, and their observations about the nature and degree of alignment between the two. In our conclusions, we describe the relationship between a more theoretical and design-focused architectural education and the obligation of the architect to sustain a viable practice, to respond effectively to client-defined project needs and budget, and to ensure the health, safety and welfare of society.