Studying Architecture in the UK

For those interested in becoming professional Architects. Architectural study is a long and enduring path that is both challenging and rewarding. Your creative, interrelationship and organisation skills are developed over years to become a well rounded individual able to design great buildings.

Architecture is a profession but it is also a discipline of study. Some may consider these as two separate fields. Others consider them to be the one and same, and one can not exist without the other. Many practising Architects choose to oscillate between the two.

For the purpose of this post, I am focusing on the profession, specifically in the UK. To read about my experience read here.

In the United Kingdom, it takes a minimum of 7 years to become a qualified Architect. The Architectural profession is regulation by the Architects Registration Board (ARB). The educational process is regulated by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA).

Architectural education is comprised of 3 distinct parts, each focused on a particular type of learning and skill set. While different Institutions/ Universities will have their own methods of teaching/ focus of study, all accredited courses need to full fill minimum requirements to ensure architecture students have a necessary skills to become a professional.

Mackintosh School of Architecture (Ref: Archdaily)

Part I

A RIBA Part I accredited degree of Architecture followed by a minimum of 1 year in the industry.

The first three years focus on design, creating a robust concept and being able to follow through from site investigation to final design.

Year-out in industry provides the first step in the architectural profession. Architectural assistants tend to learn about the planning process, construction industry. Students experiences vary greatly depending on their prior learning at University, their choice of practice and the projects at the time. Architectural Assistance are expected to log their experience with their mentor and professional Adviser using ‘Professional Experience Development Record’ (PEDR)

Part II

A RIBA Part II accredited Master of Architecture course followed by a minimum of 1 year in the industry

Part II is a two year course, intended to culminate the learning from degree and year out.

Year-out in industry provides a greater level of responsibility for Architectural assistance. Again, depending on the size of the practice and projects available, Assistants can carry out work varies from taking ownership of an entire project to working as part of a team on a large scheme.

Similar to Part I, Architectural assistants are expected to log their experience with their mentor and professional advisers using PEDR.

Part III

Part III is the final part of the architectural education and is a undertaken while at work. It is a RIBA Part III accredited Diploma/ professional course.

Part III covers topics such as law, business, finances and project management. The above topics may have been covered to some extent at University (Part I or Part II). However, the majority of knowledge will be gained in the 2 years out in industry, therefore the quality of the experience gained is vital.

Apprenticeships

In recent years, apprenticeships have become a popular route for Architecture students as they are able to gain additional industry experience while learning. More information could be found using the RIBA website here.

To read about my experience read here.