The UK has a global reputation for pioneering architecture, construction and urban planning. Examples of traditional and modern architecture are in evidence throughout the UK and architects are pushing the boundaries of innovation with materials and concepts to make buildings commercially viable, energy efficient and visually striking.

Architects are continually looking to create the next instant architectural icon in the UK. In the nation’s capital, developers planning the new generation of landmark buildings are looking to the skies. Due for completion in 2012, ‘The Shard’ in London Bridge will be the first building in Western Europe to break the 1000ft barrier and, along with a number of other new skyscrapers, will redefine London’s skyline.

Many UK architectural practices continue to make their impressive mark across the world and the UK is a pioneer in environmental planning and design. Architects from major UK architectural practice, Foster and Partners, have led the way in developing solutions to environmental concerns. Current projects include Greystones New Quarter in Greystones, Ireland; the Russia Tower in Moscow, Russia; the Eurogate Duisburg in Duisburg, Germany; and the Banyan Tree Corniche Bay development in La Gaulette, Mauritius – all of which are developing sustainable and environmentally friendly architecture in  a series of different locations. Postgraduate study and academic research continue to play a large part in pushing architectural boundaries.

A large proportion of architecture graduates seeking professional accreditation will need to have completed a year of professional experience before embarking on their RIBA Part 2 course, which can be taken as a BArch, PGDip, or they can top up their course to an  MA programme. Some institutions will allow students to join a part-time professional studies programme that leads to the RIBA Part 3 examination  (the Examination in Professional Practice and Management), which they can undertake in addition to professional work. Postgraduates can also specialise in related subjects such as interior design, architectural conservation, landscape design and surface design.

Postgraduate Study methods
Taught postgraduate courses often count towards, or exempt students from, the professional exams in architecture, surveying or town planning.

Postgraduate Funding
The UK invests heavily in architecture and town planning, and three Research Councils offer funding to students in these subject areas. The Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) funds design-related projects, the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) funds construction and civil engineering-related topics, and urban and logistical studies may be funded by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC). Research at UK institutions focuses on a wide range of national and global topics, such as reconditioning urban environments and architecture in the developing world.

Postgraduate Entry requirements
To be admitted to study for a Architecture master’s, or potentially a PhD, you will need a good honours degree in an appropriate subject, such as architecture, building, engineering, science or related disciplines.

Career In Architecture
In order to become an architect you have to train for a minimum of seven years, which normally involves three key stages. The first is a five-year degree programme, on a course that is recognised by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and the Architects Registration Board (ARB). This is usually divided into two parts: a three-year degree, known as RIBA Part 1, followed by a further two years’ of advanced undergraduate study, known as RIBA Part 2. The second stage is a minimum of two years professional experience in an architects’ office or equivalent. One year is usually taken after Part 1 (Stage 1 Professional Experience), and the other year after Part 2 (Stage 2 Professional Experience). The final stage is the RIBA Part 3 Examination in Professional Practice and Management.

Only when you have completed these three stages can you actually call yourself an architect. Having gained the Part 3, you can register as an architect with the ARB and can apply to become a Chartered Member of the RIBA. The profession welcomes those candidates who choose to specialise through postgraduate study.
 

Salary guide
Entrants studying Part 1 exams can earn up to £17,000-£20,000 a year, Part 2 can expect £21,000-£31,000. Newly registered architects who have completed Part 3 earn £29,000-£34,000, and with further experience and seniority this can rise to £34,000-£45,000. (Source: RIBA)