Architects create new buildings and shape the spaces around us. The role blends creativity with analysis. If you enjoy drawing and solving design challenges, read on to find out how to become an architect in the UK.
Updated: 05 Sept 2025
Architects play a vital role in turning ideas into buildings and environments. They start by listening to clients, whether individuals, communities or businesses, to understand their needs. They then create initial sketches and digital models of the project, combining creative flair with functionality. As the design evolves, architects consider things like materials, structure, sustainability and building regulations to balance aesthetics and practicality.
Architects stay involved once construction begins. They check that everything’s built as planned and work with engineers, builders and planners to solve any issues. It’s a job that mixes design, problem-solving and teamwork, perfect if you enjoy both creativity and structure.
To become an architect, you’ll need creative vision plus solid academic ability. Useful skills include:
Design & tech: sketching, modelling, Computer-Aided Design (CAD) tool and construction knowledge
Analytical & detail-focused: solving design problems and ensuring plans are accurate
Communication & teamwork: working with clients, engineers and builders requires clear communication and team spirit
Initiative & resilience: projects often change, so you’ll need to adapt and stay organised
Negotiation: to keep projects to time and budget there will be a level of compromise, so mediation skills are key
Strong imagination: visualising things that don’t exist yet is what this role is all about
GCSEs: at least five passes at grade 4 including English, maths and a science
A-levels (or equivalent): Maths, Physics, Art and Design or Technology are all useful subjects to have studied. BTECs and other qualifications are accepted providing you get high grades
Work experience or shadowing someone in an architecture firm along with workshops or online courses like RIBA will help your application stand out
To become an architect, you first need to complete an undergraduate degree recognised by the Architects Registration Board (ARB).
You can opt for a BA, BSc, BEng or BArch ARB approved degree, each offering a slightly different focus. BA courses often include more theoretical and creative elements, while BSc and BEng programmes lean towards the scientific and technical side of architecture. The BArch is typically a longer course designed to prepare you for the professional qualifications needed to become a licensed architect. Some examples include:
BA Interior Architecture
BA Architecture and Urban Planning
BSc Architectural Design Technology
BA Landscape Architecture
BEng Architecture and Environmental Engineering
Universities typically ask for 112–152 UCAS points. Qualifications may include:
A-levels: A*AA–BBC
BTECs: D*D*D*–DMM
Scottish Highers: AAAAB–AABB (Advanced Highers: AAA)
International Baccalaureate: 42–29
A creative portfolio is usually required which is often discussed at a uni interview.
NEXT: Check out architect degree courses
Studying architecture is a hands-on, creative experience. You’ll spend time in studio workshops developing your own designs. You’ll learn technical drawing, model making, CAD tools, and tune your visual communication skills. Alongside this, you’ll explore subjects like building science, history and environmental sustainability. Many courses include site visits and crit sessions, where you present your ideas and get feedback.
Some architecture courses offer a foundation year to help build core skills while others combine master’s level study. Programmes may include professional experience or the option to study abroad. Course lengths vary but usually take between three to four years.
Once you have completed your degree, you’ll need to do further study and work experience to qualify as an architect. A typical path involves:
A year of practical work experience
A further two years' full-time university course like BArch, Diploma, MArch
A year of practical training
A final qualifying exam
In total it takes a minimum of seven years to become a qualified architect.
Degree apprenticeships
An architect apprenticeship offers an alternative, but sometimes longer route, into the profession. It may suit if you prefer learning on the job. There are two main options:
Level 6 Architectural Assistant apprenticeship, which is the equivalent to an undergraduate degree
Level 7 Architect apprenticeship, which covers the postgraduate study
Each level takes around four years to complete. Entry requirements depend on the employer and university but typically include A-levels or equivalent for Level 6, and an undergraduate degree for Level 7. You can find opportunities through the government’s apprenticeship site, RIBA Jobs, or by contacting firms directly.
Postgraduate study
To qualify as an architect, you’ll need to complete a postgraduate degree. This could be a MArch, MA, MPhil, or BArch depending on your chosen route. Postgraduate architecture programmes typically take one to three years full time and build on your undergraduate degree in architecture, which is an essential first step.
NEXT: Use our postgraduate course search for more details.
After completing all elements of architecture training, you can register with the ARB and officially call yourself an architect. Graduates often start as junior architects or associates. With experience they may become project architects, senior associates or partners, or even start their own practice. Many architects later specialise in areas like conservation, interior or sustainable design.
Salaries grow with experience, a typical starting wage is £31,000, increasing to £58,000 with experience. Earnings vary depending on the size of the firm and its location. Senior professionals at larger firms can earn significantly more, sometimes upwards of £150,000.
If you’re applying to study architecture, showing creativity and enthusiasm is key. Here are some ways to make your application stand out:
Create a strong portfolio with your best creative work (e.g. sketches, models, CAD designs, or photos of projects).
Gain relevant experience by attending architecture workshops or shadowing professionals.
Write a focused personal statement explaining your interest in architecture.
Mention a building or architect you admire and explain why.
Highlight key skills or projects that show creativity, motivation and commitment.
Julianne and Matthew, both 1st year students studying Architecture at Ulster University gave it a 5 * rating, saying “It’s amazing!” and describing the uni as a “great place”.
NEXT: Find more honest reviews about architecture courses in the UK
Is architecture a hard degree?
It can be demanding and requires dedication to complete all aspects of the training but leads to a rewarding career.
Do I need to be good at maths or drawing?
Strong maths and science skills help but creativity is equally important. Drawing skills are useful, though you will also learn CAD and modelling during the course.
Do I need a portfolio or experience?
You’ll almost always need a portfolio for a design-based course. Relevant experience (even voluntary projects) can make your application stronger, though it’s not strictly required.
Can I specialise later?
Yes, your initial training is broad, preparing you for many different specialisms , architects often specialise after qualifying.
If you’re interested in exploring how to become an architect, find out more about undergraduate courses below.