How to become an Architect in the UK?

Architecture is for far one of the most passionate professions involving a wide range of fields; it combines from one side arts, creativity and innovative thinking, and engineering, new technologies and analytical thinking from the other.

Therefore, their studies are demanding and exciting, with an inch of frustration and a big sense of reward and satisfaction!

If you are willing to follow your passion, Emagister describe you the pathways to qualify as an Architect!

Typically the studies of architecture involve five years at a University followed by two years of practical experiences to apply the acquired theory. Most architects in the UK have had professional experience abroad as the architecture courses allow the students to participate in an exchange programme with universities abroad for a year of study.

RIBA Part 1

To start your studies you must complete the RIBA Part 1 which involves studying a university undergraduate degree. The duration of the BA or BSc in Architecture last over three to fours years full time.

During this time you will develop a strong basis for your architectural thinking, that will prepare you for your first practical experience after finishing the Part 1 of your studies.

RIBA Part 2

Depending on the school RIBA Part 2 is known as BArch, MArch or Diploma and is completed in two years full-time. This university degree provides a clarification and a deeper understanding of the project complexity. Also, it allows students to go further in their specialisations related to other fields.

After completing the RIBA Part 2, you must realise a practical experience as you need to have completed 24 months of practical experience in total in order to pass the RIBA Part 3 examination. This gives to the architects students an opportunity to learn about aspects of the practice such as management and law.

RIBA Part 3

It is only after the completion of this final examination that the student can be registered as an architect in the UK.
The RIBA Part 3 verify the skills and knowledge gained during the Part 1 and 2 and during the 24 months of practical experience.
This examination consists of a career evaluation of your CV, besides of completing a case study, a written examination and an oral presentation.

Once you completed all, you become a qualified architect listed on the Architects Registration Board (ARB). It is only at this moment that you are eligible to become a Chartered Member of the RIBA.

“Architecture is an extraordinary thing, it can improve people’s lives. It appears every society has decided we need it, and that we measure our civilisations by it. All this means that you are about to enter one of the biggest and most passionate debates humanity can get involved in”, as explained by the Director of Education of the Royal Institute of British Architecture.