like i said before, it's very unlikely that they dont have that position (architect assistant) in JKR, as the BSc (part 1) have existed very, very long time ago. USM and UiTM started the BSc in the 80s.

most likely they gave the position a different title. we all know nobody likes to be called "assistant" to anything when u got a degree .

there's no more auto-recognition. so it will most probably hinder new students from going abroad. but for students who're already there like you, it's not a big deal.

for BIM (building information modelling), it's more about using software to integrate practice with other professions, from the design by the architect to civil engineering to building contractors. my research on BIM is mostly on design authoring and building performance simulation. it's important, yes. but because it's one of the emerging technologies nowadays, many still do not see the relevance of BIM. as a comparison, singapore converted their practices to virtually 100% BIM by 2012. it reduces cost and make the works more time efficient. malaysia still have a long way to go, which is why im quickly cementing my foot in it for the future run .

it highly depends on how well u performed in school. architecture is a close-knit community, and most of the time we know each other quite well. meaning what u did in school will echo through the industry, and most firms would always keep an eye on high performers in school. coming from a good school also a bonus, as reputation means there's a better tendency that the graduates are very capable designers.

by research? perhaps. but there's a number of subjects that u needed to take during the 1st sem (research method etc). but i believe the rest is between u and ur supervisor. most of the lecturers in our school are involved in UTM KL quite often. so if u select them as ur supervisor, u can meet them in KL instead.

currently not available for supervision until end of 2017 .