If you are looking for a challenging graduate career that involves combining art and science, then architecture could be for you.

Architecture is a demanding profession as it addresses many of the important issues that affect society today. In addition to designing, planning and supervising the construction of buildings, architects also explore new ways of living, and investigate new technologies and materials, all the time while balancing environmental issues.

So, what will you be expected to do? An architect’s primary concern is to design a structure that is sustainable, functional and pleasing to the eye.

Key responsibilities include:

• controlling a project from start to finish
• designing structures
• producing detailed working drawings and specifications
• meeting client needs/expectations.

Graduate-job description

• Architect

Architectural practices

There are many different forms of architectural practice, ranging from large public or corporate organisations to small private firms. There are also plenty of opportunities for those with an architectural degree to work in specialist fields such as planning, landscape or conservation. Others may move into more general fields of work such as media, teaching or writing.

Qualifying as an architect

In order to qualify, you must complete qualifications in architecture that have been validated by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). You will need to complete five years’ academic study (Parts 1 and 2) and two years’ professional experience before you can sit the final examination (Part 3).

Once you have successfully completed Part 3 you may register with the Architects Registration Board (ARB) and join the RIBA. The degree programme is split between the Part 1 first degree (three years, full time, normally a BSc or BA in Architecture) followed by the Part 2 advanced degree (two years, full time, normally a DipArch or BArch)

You are required to complete 24 months’ recorded professional experience before being eligible to sit the Part 3 examination. Most students undertake a period of one year’s professional experience between Part 1 and Part 2 (Stage 1), with at least one more year’s further training after Part 2 (Stage 2).

Unfortunately, RIBA does not offer conversion courses for graduates with an unrelated degree course. Graduates who want to pursue a career in architecture and have an unapproved degree will have to begin as an undergraduate and follow an approved route.

At interview you will have to present a portfolio of work that reflects a broad range of relevant work experience (including sketches and freehand drawings). Employers won’t expect skilled architectural work, but evidence that you have the potential to produce it. Excellent communication skills together with creativity and technical knowledge are also important.

Key skills

• strong imagination and a creative mind
• good style and design techniques
• high standard of IT skills
• strong leadership qualities and organisational skills
• analytical ability
• good negotiation skills
• flexible approach to working and learning
• ability to investigate problems and provide solutions
• good communication skills (written and verbal).

Find out more

• Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA)
• Architects Registration Board (ARB)