If architecture were any other field, the preference for a postgraduate degree would immediately be seen as a pursuit of higher education, driven by the goals of research, specialist corporate jobs, or academia. However, in architecture, the mad rush to fill out master’s applications is a curious spectacle because:
- There is no clear evidence that a master’s degree in India helps students easily land well-paying jobs.
- The opportunities for research during the degree are almost non-existent.
- Becoming a professor of architecture (after the master’s and PhD) is a time-consuming journey and doesn’t naturally appeal to many late millennials or Gen Z.
So, why are so many opting for a post-graduate in architecture?
For many, the unspoken reason is the tough job market. Staying in college feels like a way to delay the trials of the job market. Good jobs are hard to find, and when they do appear, they don’t pay well. In India, architecture colleges are clustered in Tier 1 cities like Mumbai, Chennai, and Bengaluru. A mid-senior architect makes about ₹25,000 per month, barely enough to pay rent, keep the lights on, and cover other basic needs.
There’s another category of students who are driven by a desire to start their firms. Many take the plunge, only to realize after a few years how difficult it is to sustain in the current market. Finding clients is hard; serving them profitably, even harder. Reality becomes evident to the soon-to-graduate students as well, so continuing education becomes a safety net.
But for a select few, the motivation is more focused. A post-graduate degree can become a gateway to specialist jobs at top firms, particularly in fields like urban planning and heritage conservation.
Graduating from reputed colleges like the School of Planning and Architecture (SPA) or CEPT University gives students a better shot at landing roles in reputed firms. This path, however, remains the exception rather than the rule.
For others, the allure of studying abroad shines brighter than anything India has to offer. The core motivation here is a desire to break free from their current town, city, or life. Many students, especially those stuck in toxic workplaces for meagre salaries, see the post-graduation abroad as their last-ditch effort to escape.
Lastly, for those who can afford it, a post-graduation is simply a two-year break. Stepping out of the industry to refresh, re-skill, and then re-enter feels like hitting the reset button.
The Risks You May Not See
While a post-graduation degree may seem like a smart move, most candidates don’t realize the hidden risks until it’s too late.
The first big risk—costs. Tuition fees are only the beginning. Spending another two years in education means two more years without a salary, professional experience, and benefits like insurance and provident fund.
For those who have already worked in the industry, going back to school can feel like starting over. It’s common for them to end up back at entry-level jobs, even though they’re older and more experienced.
If you’re considering a postgraduate degree abroad, brace yourself for significant expenses. Studying in the USA, the UK, or Canada can easily set you back ₹30L to ₹40L a year, not including living expenses. Many students end up taking loans, placing heavy financial pressure on themselves and their families. You’ll rarely see someone confess on LinkedIn that their family had to forfeit assets to the bank because they couldn’t repay their education loan—but it happens more often than you think.
Beyond the financial burden, not all international programs are worth the hype or the cost. Landing a job in a foreign country can also be far more difficult than students anticipate. Few think about the countless hoops they’ll have to jump through in terms of visas and licensing requirements. The UK, France, and several European countries, in particular, make it extremely difficult for international students to work as architects. Even in the USA, where you can work in a firm without being licensed, obtaining a valid work visa is a major hurdle.
And what happens after you get your degree?
Many students assume that a master’s will guarantee them a job in their desired field, but that’s not always the case. Some will realize that they’ve hyper-specialized in a field with limited opportunities. They find themselves overqualified for bachelor’s-level jobs and underqualified for generalist roles. While being a specialist can be beneficial, it often restricts your flexibility in the job market.
What Could You Do Instead?
So, what’s the alternative? Should you follow the crowd and pursue a master’s, or is there a better way forward?
Here’s some advice from someone who’s seen both sides: get into the industry first. Master your craft in the field—learn the hands-on skills that come from actively contributing to projects, meeting client expectations, and handling real deadlines. These experiences are more valuable than what you’d find in a classroom.
If your dream is to start your firm, focus on building a business that stands out. Be tech-first. Build systems that can support remote work so you can hire without geographic constraints.
That said, if you’re genuinely passionate about academia, specializing in a specific sub-field, or moving abroad, a master’s might make sense. But don’t make this decision based on hope alone. Weigh the pros and cons carefully. What are you truly gaining? Will this degree help you achieve your goals, or are you simply delaying the inevitable?
When to opt for a postgraduate?
Let’s be clear—a master’s can supercharge the right career. But it’s not for everyone. Opt for master’s if:
- You’ve got a specific niche that demands specialized knowledge, and you’ve found programs that place graduates in decent jobs.
- You can pay without drowning in loan debt, and have snagged scholarships that make sense financially.
- You’ve worked in the field and know exactly how this degree fits your career trajectory.
- You’ve solved the international visa puzzle (for studying abroad) and confirmed through actual graduates—not brochure success stories—that it’s worth it.
A strategic master’s can be powerful. The right program expands networks and can boost professional growth in specialized fields. For some, it’s the leap from stuck to successful.
Just remember: it’s an investment, not a rescue plan. Choose wisely.
Feature Image – AI Generated
