<p>I keep hearing from actual architects that being bad at math is no deal breaker for this profession. Still, I would really love to know what math is used in architecture and what level of it (high school, college etc). However, this information has just outright evaded me. Ive been reading various geometry books because im assuming that architects must do some geometry but other than that im pretty much in the dark. Also, im currently an art and design major but im serious about pursuing architecture in graduate school.</p>
<p>Take a look at some architecture degree course bulletins from schools of architecture. Those will spell out what types and/or levels of math courses are required to complete the degree.</p>
<p>For example:</p>
<p>Cal Poly SLO: <a href=“http://www.catalog.calpoly.edu/2009pubcat/caed/arch_dept/barch.pdf[/url]”>http://www.catalog.calpoly.edu/2009pubcat/caed/arch_dept/barch.pdf</a></p>
<p>Cornell: <a href=“http://aap.cornell.edu/arch/programs/ugcurriculum.cfm[/url]”>http://aap.cornell.edu/arch/programs/ugcurriculum.cfm</a></p>
<p>Penn State: <a href=“http://www.arch.psu.edu/programs/documents/BARCHRecommendedAcademicPlan2010.pdf[/url]”>http://www.arch.psu.edu/programs/documents/BARCHRecommendedAcademicPlan2010.pdf</a></p>
<p>In the profession, you will need math for basic spatial analysis: geometry is important, trigonometry is useful, but not required. CAD makes everything easier, but a basic knowledge of spatial relationships is helpful. You’ll need to be able to calculate square and cubic feet, percentages of things (net to gross usable square footage, for example). And there are building code analyses that are made much easier if you have good geometry skills. You’ll also need basic financial skills for project management, although, again, Excel makes this all much easier.</p>
<p>In school, you need to take structures. For that, geometry and trig. are necessary. Calculus can be helpful, but fit’s very rarely used.</p>