Under the theme ‘Between dream job and reality check’, nexture+, the network for emerging architects, has taken a close look at the situation facing young professionals in the planning disciplines. What is the current state of play regarding prospects, challenges and developments in the labour market? What has changed since the last survey in 2023/2024?

Between October and December 2025, students, recent graduates and interns from across Germany were surveyed on the topics of job satisfaction, the workplace and working conditions, as well as salary and career goals. The findings suggest that, caught between creative expectations and harsh reality, the start of a career is proving difficult for many. There is talk of long hours (often unpaid), discrimination and a perceived lack of career progression opportunities. For the vast majority, however, the planning disciplines remain a dream career. At the same time, the four architectural planning disciplines continue to enjoy a good reputation as professions with high social relevance.

The findings are summarised in this report.

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