<p>I would like to become an Architectural Modeler and maybe an Architect too, since I already have knowledge in AutoCAD and 3ds Max. What kind of degree would be suggested?</p>
<p>P.S- Does an architect have to have knowledge of structural engineering too (ie plumbing, electrical, hvac, etc)?..or does he just design the layout of the house using autoCAD? My dream job would be designing people’s homes with AutoCAD and then making cutting edge visualizations of the house with 3ds Max, since the two programs are compatible with each other.</p>
<p>I have no idea about what path to choose and if the job I want, even exists.</p>
<p>mj, if you want to be a modeler all you need to do is to become proficient in Max and find someone to give you experience. However you are competing against a bunch of very low paid but highly skilled modelers in India and China.</p>
<p>As far as designing a house in Autocad, that has become a bit old school. Folks now design in a 3D sketch program such as sketchup or form.z, and quickly move to Revit to add intelligence to the model. The renderer in Revit is now the same renderer as in 3D Max, so unless you are doing an animation there is no need to go to Max.</p>
<p>An architecture degree will give you many more options in life. Yes, you are going to have to learn mechanical systems, and plumbing, and structure. However that is why you are more valuable. With an architecture degree you can do many more things. If you develop good modeling and rendering skills it might give you a source of income while you are in school, and make you a better student.</p>