Architect

Architects design and construct new buildings and restore and conserve old ones.

Their work also involves planning the layout of groups of buildings and the spaces around them.

Architects create a design, taking into account their clients’ requirements and a range of other issues including: budget; safety; social factors; building regulations; planning laws. Once a design is agreed, they: produce a further set of detailed drawings for the building contractor, with precise dimensions and materials; work closely with contractors, engineers, surveyors, lawyers and planning departments; regularly inspect the construction work to assess progress.

They are responsible for a building project from the earliest stage through to completion. On larger jobs, they work in a team alongside other architects and architectural technicians or technologists.

As an architect's assistant, during the trainee stages, you could earn between £17,000 and £30,000 a year. Newly registered architects may earn between £30,000 and £35,000.

Qualified architects with around five years' experience can earn up to around £50,000. Salaries vary depending on the type of architectural practice/organisation and its location.

The most common way to qualify as an architect involves five years’ study on a university course recognised for registration with the Architects Registration Board (ARB), and at least two years’ professional experience.

You would complete this in the following stages: a three year full-time undergraduate BA or BSc degree (known as Part 1); paid professional experience in an architectural practice, typically for one year (known as Stage 1); a further two year full-time degree, for example a BArch, Diploma or MArch (known as Part 2 – final award); at least one year’s further paid professional experience (known as Stage 2); professional exam (known as Part 3).

Once you have completed the Part 1, 2 and 3 qualifications you can register as an architect with the ARB and apply to become a Chartered Member of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA).

To get on to the undergraduate degree you will need at least five GCSEs (A-C) including maths, English and physics or chemistry, and three A levels (some universities prefer this to include a maths or science subject).

Many course providers will also want to see a portfolio of your drawings and sketches. Entry requirements can vary and alternative qualifications may also be accepted (such as an Access course), so it is important to check with universities for exact details.

Some university schools of architecture will give you exemption from parts of their courses if you already have relevant qualifications or extensive experience. You should check with them for details.