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The path to becoming an architect

As a mature student currently in my second year of studying for a BSc (Hons) in architectural technology, I've realised that I would preferably study towards becoming a RIBA qualified architect.

I wondered whether it would be wise to continue with my current degree and finish as a technologist, with the hope of possibly getting practical work experience and sitting the RIBA part 1 exam (if this is possible?). Or, should I quit my course of study now and start with a MArch or BSc in architecture? Would I get any credits for any of the subjects I have already done or do I start from scratch? It would be rather demoralising if what I have already done would be for nought.

Also, if I did finish as a technologist and studied further to achieve an MSc or Ma in an architecturaly related subject (i.e conservation, sustainability, etc) would this give me exemption from RIBA part 1?

I realise it's all a bit long winded but any help would be appreciated.

Thanks, Henry

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4 answers

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j francis [ Editor ]

RIBA Examination in Architecture for Office-based Candidates managed on behalf of the RIBA is a good option but go into it with your eyes open.

It is not an easy route and can also involve high costs in both your time and from the need to employ a decent tutor, which is worth its weight in gold but is a cost on top of fees. The course for part 2 for example is possible to pass in two years but this is very hard work and an understanding partner is a must!

The other issue you'll have is not being exposed to other students (unless you manage to meet a kindred spirit who is local to you) and so getting into the right mindset can be difficult. All that said it is an option to investigate and worth doing if you either have restrictions on you geographically or need to stay in full time employment.

With hard work it can be a quick and effective way to a part 2 or part 1, but also be aware this will not give you anything other than a "pass" for either part, not an academic qualification in the traditional form.

On another note question why you feel you want the architect title, some of the most competent people I work with are technicians and technologists; CIAT might be worth talking to before you commit to changing your route into the profession.

What ever you decide good luck.

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  • 0

ben_17

Sounds like you need to decide what it is you want to do. If you want to be a qualified 'architect' (ARB registered etc) then studying on an accredited course is going be generally more straight forward. That said, there are alternative routes open and you should probably speak to the RIBA education dept about what they are. From what I hear, gaining Parts 1 and 2 without being on an accredited course is difficult but not impossible.

However, may be you don't want to be an architect. Have you looked into the career and what it involves? Levels of unhappiness within architectural offices are extremely high and joining as a 'mature' student is going to put you years behind the other young folk who are busily climbing the greasy pole. If you want a career as a conservation or sustainability consultant, then there are probably far quicker and more rewarding ways of reaching that goal than becoming an architect. I would advise you to explore these alternatives before committing to what is a very long and drawn out process to qualify as an architect.

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sarah_77

I investigated this myself when I was in the second year of a degree I was not happy with. I stuck with the same subject at different uni in the end.

I think your best option (from my experience) is to transfer to an RIBA validated BSc Hons in Architecture in September. How much credit you get for the study you've done will probably depend on which courses/unis you are coming from and joining. I had to go into second year, which meant paying fees that year (I didn't pay normally under the means testing rules) as it counted as a voluntary repeat. I went through before top-up fees etc so can't advise on how that will work now.

I don't think there is any other way of getting the Part 1 exemption than studying a validated course. See the 'Education & Careers' section on the RIBA website.

As for conservation, that was my BSc subject. I would suggest that you get yourself through the Part 1 exempted degree first then think about conservation/sustainability as a post grad/part 2 subject and save yourself the non-accreditation related hassles I have.

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henry geldenhuys
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Thanks for taking the time to answer Sarah, very much appreciated. I think what I might do is continue with my current course of study. Hopefully I can get some work experience and get a feel for the industry and take it from there.

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lisa_22

I completed a BSc(Hons) in Architectural Design Technology and now after working in a practise for 5 years have been inspired to become a qualified Architect. I could not afford to give up working to go back to uni and also did not want to give up my full time job, which given the economc climate I am very lucky to have. I researched into my options and came across the Oxford Brookes OBE (Office Based Examination) in Architecture in association with the RIBA. This program allows you to complete your Part 1 + 2 whilst working (employment is necessary to get accepted onto the course). With my degree I was exempt from 3 Technical parts of Part 1 so your degree will not be wasted. You must also have 3 years experience working in a practice before you can apply. Have a look at-

http://www.architecture.com/EducationAndCareers/BecomingAnArchitect/Alternativeroutestoqualification.aspx

Hope this is of some help/interest.

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henry geldenhuys
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Thanks for your time LIsa. I think this option would be the ideal choice for me as it will give me the opportunity to get some work experience and first test the water as it were.

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