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Architect: Entry requirements

You must register with the Architects Registration Board (ARB) and complete qualifications recognised by both the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and the ARB to qualify as a chartered architect in the United Kingdom. This allows you to practise as an architect and use the title ‘architect’.

The standard entry route into the architecture profession entails at least seven years in training and higher education. This consists of:

an approved first degree in architecture, known as RIBA Part 1, which typically takes three or four years;
12 months of supervised and recorded practical experience, referred to as stage one professional experience - this is commonly taken in architects’ practices, but may be in any sector of the building industry, including construction and design;
two years of further study for a diploma or a secondary degree in architecture, known as RIBA Part 2;
12 months' supervised and recorded work experience, known as stage two professional experience - this must be in an architect's office under the supervision of a qualified architect;
the RIBA Part 3 examination in professional practice and management, which students may take on completion of the above. Once this is completed you can register as an architect with the ARB and apply to become a chartered member of the RIBA.

Many universities hold interviews with students prior to offering a place on an architecture course. Potential students are expected to have a portfolio demonstrating a broad mixture of work, including sketches, freehand drawings, photographs and models.

Initial entry without an RIBA-approved degree is unlikely, and not possible with an HND only. It may be possible, however, to enter the profession at architectural technician or trainee architectural technician level, although a degree and a period of professional practice is still usually required.

The RIBA does not offer conversion courses for graduates with non-accredited or unrelated degrees. Graduates wanting a career in architecture need to begin as an undergraduate and follow an approved route.

There is an alternative route to qualification that does not involve full- or part-time study at a school of architecture. The RIBA Examination in Architecture for office-based candidates is a RIBA-validated, ARB-prescribed programme delivered by Oxford Brookes University on behalf of the RIBA. If you have worked for a minimum of three years in practice, you can join the Part 1 programme. If you already have part one and three years' experience, it is possible to register for Part 2.

As well as the technical skills gained through study, candidates need to show evidence of the following:

good design and drawing skills;
a strong imagination and the ability to think and create in three dimensions;
good analytical skills, accuracy and attention to detail;
a keen interest in buildings and the built environment;
excellent communication skills, written and oral, with the ability to liaise effectively with a range of other professionals;
good organisational and negotiation skills;
strong teamworking and leadership skills;
an understanding about the relationship between people, buildings and the wider environment;
reasonable mathematical skills;
project management skills;
excellent IT skills, including computer-aided design skills, such as AutoCAD.

A driving licence is usually required, and a willingness to work long hours can be advantageous.

Students should generally practise drawing to enhance their skills. Model-making skills are also an advantage. It is important to take an interest in publications or TV programmes about buildings and to keep up to date with the current trends in architecture and design.

In addition to the professional experience required, any pre-entry work experience in an architectural or building environment is desirable and is highly regarded by recruiters. Many firms offer internship opportunities over the summer vacation which can offer invaluable experience.

Students should try to develop contacts in the industry, possibly through work experience, academic departments, personal contacts and local representatives of professional bodies and associations. Joining one of the professional bodies, which usually offer free student membership, provides access to professional journals and information about vacancies.

For more information see work experience and find courses and research.

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