Career Services

The BAC's 125-year practice-based tradition combines classroom and applied learning, positioning graduates to be exceptionally competitive in the professional marketplace. To complete the applied learning element of their education, BAC students typically earn practice hours by acquiring professional design skills through employment. It is the responsibility of the student to pursue and determine ways to gain professional skills and experiences, and there are many job resources available to those who seek them out.

Professional Development: Who Can Help?

The Practice Department provides professional advising and a range of resources to help students identify their career goals and determine the appropriate steps toward developing and realizing those goals. Whether you are planning to become a licensed architect, landscape architect, or interior designer, or whether you are planning to blaze your own trail in the design industry, the staff in the Practice Department can meet with you individually to discuss your career needs. 

To schedule an appointment, email practice@the-bac.edu or call 617.585.0145. Be prepared to bring an up-to-date resume, work samples, portfolio material (if any), a notepad to write on, and—most importantly—your questions.

Preparing for the Job Search

Crafting a compelling resume and cover letter is essential for anyone planning a successful job search campaign.  It is often your first introduction to prospective employers and will determine whether or not you are contacted for a first interview.  The following tools are designed to help you present your skills and qualifications in dynamic ways that may help you snag that coveted interview:

• Getting Started in Practice
• General Info on Job Search Documents
• Job Search Strategies
• The Job Application
• Cover Letter
• Chronological Resume
• Functional Resume
• Hybrid Resume
• References Page
• Work Samples
• Interview Tips

View the results of the 2016 Student Employment Survey.

Finding a Job or Paid Internship

For many students, finding work at the right design firm or related setting is a crucial step in their career development. Getting the desired job or internship may not be easy, but students who conduct a diligent, informed, and persistent job search campaign eventually do find work. Here are a few tools to aid your search:

• Practice Lab Practice Lab is an online job database available to BAC students. Through Practice Lab, students can search for full-time and part-time positions with design firms and related offices.
• American Institute of Architects
• American Society of Interior Designers
• American Society of Landscape Architects
• Boston Society of Architects
• International Interior Design Association

Looking for alternative ways of gaining Practice experience? Learn about Gateway; apply for Independent Practice, Design Competitions, or Travel Hours; or consider pursuing opportunities in a non-traditional, design-related setting.