Architect

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• an apprenticeship
• working towards this role

University

To become an architect, you'll need to complete:

• a degree recognised by the Architects Registration Board (ARB)
• a year of practical work experience
• a further 2 years' full-time university course like BArch, Diploma, MArch
• a year of practical training
• a final qualifying exam

You'll need a portfolio when you are interviewed for degree courses. Course providers will want to see a portfolio that includes hand drawn sketches, photographs and models.

Entry requirements:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree

Entry requirements:

Apprenticeship

You can get into this role through an architect degree apprenticeship.

This typically takes 48 months to complete as a mix of workplace learning and academic study at an approved university.

You can find out more about architecture apprenticeships from the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA).

Entry requirements:

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

Work

You could qualify to become an architect through a foundation course with RIBA Studio which can offer a more flexible route.

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

Skills:

• design skills and knowledge
• knowledge of building and construction
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• thinking and reasoning skills
• customer service skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• analytical thinking skills
• the ability to use your initiative
• maths knowledge
• knowledge of engineering science and technology
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• business management skills
• the ability to work well with others
• the ability to read English
• ambition and a desire to succeed
• the ability to use your judgement and make decisions
• the ability to monitor your own performance and that of your colleagues
• operations analysis skills
• concentration skills
• a good memory

What you'll do:

Architects design new buildings and the spaces around them, and work on the restoration and conservation of existing buildings.

In this role you could:

• create hand sketches, 3D models and technical plans using computer aided design (CAD) software
• create a plan that follows building laws, safety regulations and is within budget
• manage construction projects, choose materials and visit sites to check on progress
• write reports and job proposals and complete planning applications
• communicate and share ideas with clients, other architects and architectural technologists and technicians

Location : You could work in a creative studio, in an office or visit sites.
Uniform : You may need to wear protective clothing.

Salary:

Starter : £30,000
Experienced : £60,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

35 - 40 hours a week

Working Pattern is evenings / weekends occasionally

Career Path:

With experience you could:

• become a partner or associate if you work for a private architectural firm
• move into a lead architect job if you work in the public sector
• work on projects as a freelance consultant
• set up your own business or work overseas