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The ARB's Requirements

Under section 4(1)(a) of the Architects Act 1997, the Architects Registration Board (ARB) prescribes those qualifications and practical experience which can lead to entry onto the UK Register of Architects. In order to fulfil this duty, the Board publishes criteria which qualifications and associated courses must meet in order to be recognised by the Board for the purpose of entry onto the Register of Architects. The ARB has mechanisms in place to ensure that all qualifications recognised by the Board meet these criteria and continue to do so.

The Board recognises qualifications awarded at universities, institutions or colleges at first degree level or equivalent (Part 1), diploma or second degree level or equivalent (Part 2), and examinations in professional practice (Part 3). Candidates for registration should have successfully completed these sequentially.

In addition to having recognised qualifications as above, candidates should have completed at least 2 years practical training experience working under the direct supervision of an architect registered in the European Union, 12 months of which must be undertaken in the UK, under the direct supervision of a UK registered person. The Board, from time to time, publishes guidelines whereby this requirement in relation to the supervising person, at the Registrar's discretion, can be varied. Further details on such guidelines can be obtained from ARB.

Those admitted to the Register of Architects are, by definition, competent to practice independently in the field of architecture and use the title 'architect' in the pursuit of their professional work

For more information on the ARB visit their website www.arb.org.uk