Architectural Practice (RIBA Part 3 Exemption) - PgDip

Successful completion of the programme gives you recognition for RIBA Part 3, registration with the Architects Registration Board, direct access to title as an architect and therefore gain membership of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA).

There are two separate entry and completion points per year, providing a flexible approach to obtaining the final professional qualification. Intensive two-day lecture and workshop sessions are supported by weekend revision and study groups, which allow the programme to be delivered harmoniously alongside your existing work commitments.

What's covered in the course?

Aimed at students engaged in architectural practice, this postgraduate course gives you the skills and knowledge to gain your qualification. It can also form the basis of your ongoing professional architectural development.

You’ll gain a critical understanding of legal requirements, practice management and construction procurement in the architecture industry, and the fundamentals of good architectural practice.

You’ll receive the support of outstanding professional staff whose extensive connections with architectural practices offer you exceptional opportunities. Lectures are delivered in four two-day intensive courses by a number of leading practitioners and experts in their field. They cover the legal framework, clients and building procurement, as well as practice and management.

Based on your own experience in architectural practice, you’ll be required to prepare a case study in two parts, one around a pre-contract issue and one around an issue arising during the construction phase of a contract.

Enhancing employability skills

The final exam with the award of Postgraduate Diploma in Architectural Practice gives exemption from the RIBA Part III examination and enables you to become a registered architect and chartered member of RIBA.

You’ll have demonstrated the professional and practical skills needed to be a successful architect, with the knowledge of the necessary business frameworks and legal issues.

A sound knowledge of UK construction and contract law, construction procurement processes and the roles of built environment professionals will enhance your professional understanding.

You’ll also be able to demonstrate understanding of the business priorities, required management processes and risks of running an architectural practice.

RIBA Part 1 and RIBA Part 2 or an equivalent qualification that the ARB has formally recognised and including one of the following, or equivalent: GCSE (grade C or above) in English Language. Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English: grade C or above; IGCSE English Language: grade C or above; Hong Kong Use of English test: grade C or above. At the final examination a minimum of 24 months' practical experience, 12 months of which may have been obtained after passing Part 1. Entry to the final examination is based on advice by the Course Director that the candidate has sufficient and adequate experience of project management in excess of 24 months, all of which should have been recorded on the Professional Education and Development Resource (PEDR).