How to Become a System Architect?: Step-by-Step Guide

By simply analysing the name of the profession, we come to understand that a ‘system architect’ is someone responsible for designing and architecting computer systems and their databases. They are IT professionals and highly relevant to the functioning of the IT sector. A goal to become a system architect involves setting up a directed path about mastering an ideal timeline, enhancing the right skills, obtaining the appropriate educational qualifications, and getting to know about the salary and prospects of the profession. To know about the same and more, continue reading this blog on how to become a system architect!

Who is a System Architect?

As mentioned above, a system architect looks after designing computer systems and their functioning. They are tasked with organising, addressing, and solving problems related to the system’s quality and effectiveness. A system architect works so efficiently and subtly that everyday organisational activities are not hampered while they work on improving and introducing updates to the existing system(s). 

Next, did you know that system architects also comprise people who are simply known as analysts of computer systems; and/or network architects? That’s because the system architects are responsible for designing the hardware and software of computer systems while addressing issues, and simultaneously fixing the same. Moreover, they are responsible for comprehending the strain that the systems can handle and the requirements needed to make them more durable! 

The aforementioned have been some of the basic introductory points on understanding the role of a system architect. Now, let’s move on to understanding the relevance of this profession and how it’s in demand that may come to your benefit. 

Relevance and Demand of a System Architect

Discussed below are the main crucial duties of a system architect that expand on their relevance in an organisation, further suggesting why their presence is in demand in various sectors. 

1. The entire functioning of a company’s technology systems, including all relevant platforms and IT infrastructure is the responsibility of a system architect. 
2. Quality control, preparing reports and overseeing project/ system designs are all aspects of a system architect’s job description. 
3. Risk management of projects as the architectural leadership to meet the company’s technological objectives is underway is also ensured by a system architect. 
4. System Architects further enhance their importance in a company as they are often required to submit reports and designs directly to The Chief Technology Officer (CTO) or a vice president.
5. System Architects also don’t miss out on supporting the users by improving their experience, benefitting one of the main intentions of any organisation. 

Must Read: A Guide to Pursue Architecture in Australia

Educational Qualifications 

Now that the blog has talked about what it is to be a system architect, let’s move on to the educational requirements that are needed to reach this position; along with the eligibility criteria and global universities supporting those qualifications. 

Courses and Certifications 

The main courses and certifications are mentioned below. 

Courses

Certifications

Bachelor in Computer Science BSc Computer Science BSc (Hons) ComputingBachelor in Information Technology Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Information Technology MBA Master’s degree in Professional IT MS in Computer Science Related 4-year degrees in computer science.

Certified System Architect (CSA) Professional in Architecture (CISSP)  CEH v11 – Certified Ethical Hacking Course  Certified Network Security Open-Source Software Developer  Certified Technical Architect (CTA)  Stanford Advanced Computer Security Program  Certified Pega Business Architect (CPBA)  Software Engineering Master Certification (SEMC)  Certified Senior System Architect (CSSA)  Red Hat Certified Architect (RHCA)  Cisco Certified Architect (CCA)  Certified Information Systems Security  CCSP Certification Course

Basic Eligibility Criteria 

The basic eligibility criteria are mentioned below. 

1. Complete education at 10+2 level from a recognised board before being able to enrol into a four-year degree program. Options for certifications, as mentioned above, are also available. 
2. To pursue a master’s degree, a relevant four-year bachelor’s degree must be completed, with qualifying scores as per the university.
3. To pursue these courses from abroad, prepare for SAT, if applicable; along with English language proficiency tests, such as IELTS, TOEFL, etc. 

Best Global Universities for System Architect

The best global universities for computer science are mentioned below. 

Name of University	U.S. News Rankings 2022-23 (Computer Science)
Tsinghua University, China	1
Stanford University, USA	2
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), USA	3
Carnegie Mellon University, USA	4
University of California Berkeley, USA	5
Nanyang Technological University, Singapore	6
National University of Singapore	6
ETH Zurich, Switzerland	8
Peking University, China	9
Chinese University of Hong Kong	10

Core Skills Required to Become a System Architect

Tabulated below are some of the key skills that are required for one to become a system architect, including basic management skills that are needed for job responsibilities. 

Professional Skills	Soft Skills
Cloud Computing  System architecture  Virtualization  Information technology (IT) management and security  Coding languages, such as Python, JavaScript, and JAVA Software Development  IT Strategy	Analytical Skills  Communication Skills  Project Management Skills  Creativity  Problem-Solving skills  Organisational skills

Progression to Become a System Architect

The most common progression followed to become a system architect is displayed below. 

System Administrator ↓ System Engineer ↓ System Architect

It is important to note that to achieve the position of system architect, the presence of ample and relevant work experience, including internships, in the portfolio of the candidate stands out for employers. 

Salary Prospects 

The average Salary that system architects can expect in India and abroad is shared below. 

In India	INR 23 lakh.
In Abroad	$103,764 (INR 85 lakh)

Top Employers of System Architects

Many companies are the top candidates when it comes to the hiring of system architects. They are listed below. 

• Amazon
• Apple
• Dell 
• HP
• Intel
• Oracle
• Northrop Grumman
• Nvidia,
• Microsoft
• Bank of America
• IBM
• Cisco

FAQs

You may enlist the assistance of Leverage Edu specialists regarding the application process of a global university for computer science so that you can realise your goals. Call us immediately at 1800 57 2000 for a free 30-minute counselling session.