Architect

What does an architect do?As an architect, you will be responsible for creating designs for new building and projects. Duties may include using specialist tools and understanding the requirements of the business or client.The job role of an architect involves the following duties:Liaising with clients to understand their needsConsidering budget, safety and community requirements for a projectCreating new building designsAdvising on the restoration and conservation of existing buildingsEnsuring building regulations, planning laws and environmental considerations are metDrawing detailed plans and blueprints using computer design programmesWorking closely with contractors, engineers, surveyors, lawyers and planning departmentsInspecting structures during the build, to make sure they meet requirementsSupervising other architects throughout each phase of a building’s design and constructionEnsuring jobs are completed on time and to budgetWorking in an office, with occasional or frequent site visits and meetings.How to become an architectThere are several routes to becoming an architect. You could do a university degree, an apprenticeship, or on-the-job training.You should explore these routes to becoming an architect to find out which is the right one for you. Although some of these options have certain qualification requirements, many employers are more interested in people who are enthusiastic, willing to learn and can follow instructions.You may need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card to work on a construction site.UniversityTo qualify as an architect you’ll need to complete a five-year university course recognised by the Architects Registration Board (ARB), followed by at least two years of professional experience.Many universities will ask to see a portfolio of your drawings before accepting you onto the course.Equivalent entry requirements explainedFind a university courseFunding adviceApprenticeshipYou can become an architect by doing an architect degree apprenticeship.RIBA Guide to Apprenticeships in ArchitectureWorkYou could apply directly to an architectural company if you have an interest/experience in this type of work. You could start your career as an architectural assistant and gain qualifications part-time.Work experienceTo help decide whether architecture is for you, further your skills and impress employers, you could gain some work experience in addition to the placements you’ll undertake whilst training.SkillsAdditional skills which may benefit anyone considering a job as an architect include:Analytical thinking skillsGood grasp of numeracyExcellent organisational abilitiesKnowledge of geographyBe thorough and pay attention to detailExcellent verbal and communication skillsAnalytical thinking skillsAble to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held deviceQualificationsTo qualify as an architect you’ll need to complete a five-year university course recognised by the Architects Registration Board (ARB), followed by at least two years of professional experience.To Get Onto An Architecture Degree You’ll Need:5 GCSEs (including English, maths and a science) at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent3 A Levels (including maths), or equivalentAn interest in art and design.To qualify as an architect you’ll need to complete a five-year university course recognised by the Architects Registration Board (ARB), followed by at least two years of professional experience.To Get Onto An Architecture Degree You’ll Need:5 GCSEs (including English, maths and a science) at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent3 A Levels (including maths), or equivalentAn interest in art and design.How much could you earn as an architect?The expected salary for an architect varies as you become more experienced.Newly trained architects can earn from £28,000Trained architects with experience can earn up to £60,000*Salaries depend on location, employer, level of responsibility, any overtime you may do, and whether you have completed and industry recognised training route. Salaries have been collected from multiple industry sources