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Architectural technologist: Entry requirements

There are currently 26 degree programmes across the UK which are accredited by the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) , and graduation from one of these is the Institute's preferred route to becoming a Chartered Architectural Technologist (MCIAT). These accredited courses are listed in the CIAT's careers handbook Your Career in Architectural Technology.

Although this area of work is open to graduates with a degree in architectural technology, other related industry degrees include:

architectural engineering/architecture;
building services engineering;
building/construction;
built environment studies;
civil and structural engineering;
computer-aided engineering;
surveying.

An NVQ/SVQ Level 4 in Architectural Technology is also accepted.

Entry with an HNC/HND in construction or a foundation degree in architectural technology can only lead to becoming a professionally-qualified architectural technician. This route is explained in Your Career in Architectural Technology, an annual publication from the CIAT.

Entry to the profession without a degree or with an unrecognised qualification is possible via the CIAT's profile candidate route. This can lead to a career as an architectural technician or, with more than ten years' experience and following successful assessment against the CIAT's professional standards, as a Chartered Architectural Technologist.

There is no upper age limit for entry to architectural technology and mature applicants may be accepted for courses without the usual qualifications, particularly if they have relevant experience in the building industry and/or CAD skills.

A postgraduate qualification is not necessary for entry into the profession. However, Masters courses and research opportunities do exist in architectural technology and other related areas for those who are interested in further study. The CIAT offers a Postgraduate Scholarship Scheme for students studying for a higher degree or diploma in an architectural technology related subject.

Relevant work experience is extremely valuable. Opportunities for vacation work and placements can be found through recruitment agencies, the CIAT website and publications, industry magazines and websites, and sometimes through academic departments and tutors.

Candidates need to show evidence of the following:

leadership skills and a willingness to take responsibility;
good communication skills, as interaction with other professionals, authorities and clients occurs frequently;
the ability to work collaboratively as part of a team;
a logical and practical approach as well as an ability to solve problems;
a good eye for detail and design, and the ability to visualise objects in three dimensions (3D);
planning and organising skills, and the ability to learn quickly.

Student membership of the CIAT is free to anyone studying on a higher education course designed to lead to a career in architectural technology. The CIAT's Student Award for Technical Excellence is a highly competitive award amongst architectural technology students. Entrants must demonstrate their achievement of technical excellence by illustrating the composition of ideas put into practice.

It is illegal for employers to discriminate on the grounds of age, gender, race, disability, sexual orientation or religious faith. For more information, see Handling Discrimination.

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

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