Abstract:

Architecture is an interdisciplinary science combining diametrically opposite areas, such as visual arts and construction engineering. It produces architectural objects that make an environment suitable for comfortable human living. The environment is produced by architects. Their activity is based on the creative search and implementation of architectural solutions. It involves coordinating the participants involved in the architectural project at all stages of its development, and the administration of architectural and construction control and author's supervision at the stage of its implementation. In addition, an architect must have creative thinking and expertise. They shall be ingenious, flexible, and communicative. They shall be highly intellectual, cultural, and spiritual.

Training an architect is a multifaceted and lengthy process. It begins long before entering the university, a higher school of architecture, and continues after graduation, too. The architectural school is the place where an amateur evolves into a specialist. It helps highlight and develop their abilities for visual poetry, learn the forms of expressing their ideas, and master materials and structures to represent their architectural worldview.

In the early 21st century, the educational process in all fields of knowledge and educational levels has drastically changed worldwide. Initially, the changes stemmed from the intense development of computer technologies and new options for information exchange. Later, COVID-19 led to more crucial change. Both waves of changes affected the professional activity of architects and the building of their professional skills during the training process.

The paper outlines the critical stages of becoming an architect. They include preparation for studies (choice of an architecture school), admission to an educational institution (building a portfolio, creativity evaluation), and the learning process (theory and practice). The report also summarizes the experience of architectural education in Ukraine, in European countries, and other parts of the world. The study is based on the review of academic publications by researching architects and practitioners. Official web pages of higher architectural schools describing their activities were monitored. The author also referred to the long-time personal experience of studying and working in a higher educational institution majoring in Architecture.

Keywords:

Architect, architectural activity, architectural education, higher architectural school, "Architecture" as a major.