Architecture - BA (Hons)

University of Westminster, London

Architecture is a fascinating subject involving wide-ranging academic, practical and vocational activities. It requires creativity and imagination, as well as the inventive employment of environmental and technical knowledge.Architecture is normally studied with a view to becoming a professional architect, but as it embraces the fields of art, history and science, it also opens doors to a range of postgraduate study options and other forms of career development.At the heart of our course is a rich choice of design studios, in which students are taught in small groups by current practitioners, reflecting London’s dynamic architecture scene. There are also lecture courses in environmental and technical studies, history and theory of architecture, as well as numerous opportunities to engage with the architecture profession through construction site visits, mentoring and a work placement.Field trips are offered in the second year and there are opportunities to study abroad, with the most recent destinations including Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong and China.Professional accreditationThe course is validated by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), providing exemption from RIBA Part 1.The usual pattern of academic and professional development involves full-time study at undergraduate level for three years (Part 1), followed by a year of practical training. Two further years of full-time postgraduate study (Part 2) are then undertaken, followed by another year of practical training and a period of part-time study, culminating in a final examination (Part 3) to qualify for registration as an architect with the Architects Registration Board (ARB).CareersThe course offers dedicated careers support, CV workshops and advice, and a growing global network of 3,000 employers.Our Careers and Employability Service is here to support you to achieve your full potential.Career pathOur graduates find employment with established world-class architects such as Make, Squire and Partners, Foster + Partners, BDP, Sheppard Robson, and Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners. Others seek out dynamic, design-led practices including David Kohn Architects, SODA Studio, and Shigeru Ban.Alternative career paths can take graduates to multi-disciplinary practices in interior and urban design and planning, or to the client side of architecture for contractors, developers or housing providers.Graduates also progress to further study or research in technological and environmental subjects related to building design, project or construction management.As graduates enter the world of architectural practice after graduation, extra support is available through our Professional Experience in Architecture Year Out short course.Job rolesThis course will prepare you for roles such as:Architectural VisualiserInterior DesignerPart 1 Architectural Assistant (leading to qualification as an Architect)Project ManagerUrban DesignerGraduate employersGraduates from this course have found employment at organisations including:dRMM ArchitectsFoster + PartnersGrimshaw ArchitectsHopkins ArchitectsRogers Stirk Harbour + PartnersSheppard Robson