Architecture influences every aspect of the built environment and, by extension, society and the individual. Architects have a sense of purpose and care about the environment and the people that live and work within. Being an architect is a creative, demanding and rewarding career involving technical skills and expert knowledge. Studying a graduate course in Architecture is the final step in securing your career as professional architect. If you have already completed an undergraduate degree in Architecture and are considering carrying your studies further to graduate level then read on to discover how a graduate program will prepare you for a high-flying Architectural career.

The most important thing to remember when looking for graduate architecture courses at university or college is to choose a program that is accredited by an official body for Architecture in that country. In the UK, this is the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and the Architects Registration Board (ARB). This ensures that the education you receive is of a high quality and allows you to practice as an architect upon completion of your studies. You may need to check the transferability of your existing qualifications to the system of your study destination to ensure that you enter at the appropriate level. For example, in the UK, the professional program in architecture is divided into four sections: a three year BA Honours degree in Architectural Studies (recognised as fulfilling RIBA, ARB Part 1 criteria); a one-year Certificate in Architectural Practice; a two-year Bachelor of Architecture with Honours (recognised as fulfilling RIBA, ARB Part 2 criteria); and finally, a two-year, part-time graduate diploma (recognised as fulfilling RIBA, ARB Part 3 criteria).

If you continue to study Architecture to graduate level and towards professional accreditation, you will normally spend a year in employment working towards a Certificate in Architectural Practice, or international equivalent, which involves gaining practical work experience and attending educational seminars at your place of study.

In parallel with the core modules you will study, you are encouraged to develop individual interests, such as urban design, conservation, or planning, for example. The options offered depend on the university or college but each should be able to offer specialist graduate courses relating to the built environment. This opportunity to study a different, though related, aspect of the built environment contributes to your architectural education and allows you to specialise if you wish.

During your first two years of employment as an architectural assistant, you will complete a diploma or certificate that signifies professional practice. This is the start of your professional career as an architect and during this period you need to gain experience in management, administration, building contracts and supervision, and to understand the architect’s legal responsibilities.

Studying a graduate course in architecture is an essential step in becoming a professional architect. When you are researching where to study, be sure to consider the official board of Architecture in that country and the necessary stages you must go through to be able to practice as an architect. Make sure that the graduate program you choose is accredited by that body.

 

Useful information:
www.riba.org
www.arb.org