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How do I train to be an architect?

It usually takes seven years of study combined with professional experience to fully qualify as an architect. This involves completing courses approved by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), the professional body of architecture in the UK. The MSA is approved by the RIBA to offer two of the three levels you will need to qualify as an architect.

The three stages you need to complete before becoming an architect are RIBA part 1, 2 and 3. Here at MSA, we offer degree courses validated by the ARB (Architects’ Registration Board) and the RIBA to provide exemption from these stages.

This includes:

Architectural education

A variety of career paths are open to you after gaining your part 1 exemption if you decide not to continue with the standard professional progression. The associated disciplines of town planning and geography have many strands. The BA in Architecture can offer a solid foundation in a number of fields of study and professions. There are many postgraduate courses and further study options available to which the BA (Hons) can assist with entry.

If you are interested in carrying on with your studies at postgraduate level, we currently offer MA Architecture and Urbanism. This course gives a more detailed understanding of the political, economic and social context of urban design and architecture. It also offers an exploration of designing within those contexts. This course can be taken either as a separate MA after completing the BA (Hons), or as an extension to the BArch.

Also see

RIBA’s Guide to Becoming an Architect on
www.architecture.com