Back to Career Guides

How to become an Architect

1,627

Architect jobs

1,369

Architect courses

Career progression and salary expectations for an Architect

Architect

| Up to £30,000

The role of an Architect

What does an Architect do?

Do you watch Grand Designs and think you could design something so much better? Then becoming an Architect could be the perfect career move for you.

Architects can work for themselves or an employer and are tasked with designing new buildings, adding extra bits to existing ones, or restoring really old constructions to their former glory. You'll work with clients and a host of construction professionals to design and implement a project in order to see it through to completion.A typical Architect's responsibilities typically include:

Meeting with clients to discuss their goals for a project - and their budget
Liaising with professionals including Joiners to assess the feasibility of the work
Using computers to create a detailed plan for implementation
Overseeing the project and carrying out site visits
Making alterations should things not go according to plan

Is a career as an Architect right for me?

One of the most important attributes for any aspiring Architect to possess is creativity. You will often need to think outside-the-box, and able to use your knowledge and initiative to overcome any problem that arises.You must also be prepared for variation as an Architect, as both regular site visits and working in the office are necessary when you're completing a job.A good architect should also be:

Good at problem-solving and visualisation
In possession of a very analytical mind
Excellent at drawing and using related computer software
Able to dream big but also create realistic plans
An effective communicator to ensure clients get what they want

What's it like to be an Architect?

"I love having the chance to constantly come up with new ideas for buildings and present them to delighted clients. The industry is constantly changing and it's exciting to think my next creation could spark the next big trend. Also, I'll never get over the excitement of seeing my drawings come to life - and the thought that the finished result will (hopefully) be around longer than me."

Get qualified as an Architect

On top of at least five GCSEs, two A-levels and a portfolio of work, you'll need to have five years' training at university and at least two years of experience to accompany your studies. Once this has been completed you can register as an Architect with the Architects Registration Board and become a chartered member of the RIBA.

Recommended Architect courses

Architectural Studies - Level 7 QLS Endorsed

Academy for Health & Fitness

Level 7 QLS Endorsed Advanced Diploma! 180 CPD Points| 16 Video Lessons| Free ID Card & Assessment Included| 100% Pass
- Compare
- 23 students
- Online
- 615 hours · Self-paced
- 180 CPD points
- Tutor support
Great service

See more See less

48-Hour Knowledge Knockdown! Prices Reduced Like Never Before! Architectural Studies - Level 7 QLS Endorsed Are you interested in learning about architecture? This online architectural studies course introduces the basics of architecture and the primary elements of architectural …
£12
AWS Certified Solutions Architect Training Associate

e-Careers

Authorised AWS Training Partner | Your entry point into DevOps | Virtual Class | Exam & Exam Pass Guarantee
- Compare
- 197 enquiries
- Online
- 4 days · Full-time
- Professional certification
- Exam(s) included
Great service

See more See less

...advantage of low cost, agility, flexibility and security. AWS Solutions Architect Associate The AWS Certified Solutions Architect certification is suitable for students wanting to become a Solutions Architect and work on the design and deployment of AWS applications on AWS technologies …
£1,495