Architect Apprenticeship at Kent

Architect

Degree Level (7)

ABOUT

Launched by the School of Architecture, Design and Planning (ADP), this work-based route combines practical experience with academic research to help graduates meet the standards set by the Architects Registration Board (ARB) and the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA).
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Benefits of the programme

Innovative Path to Registration

The Level 7 Architect Apprenticeship offers a unique and direct route for ambitious Part 1 graduates working in the industry to achieve professional registration.

Work-Based Learning Opportunity

Launched by the School of Architecture, Design and Planning (ADP), this apprenticeship provides a new practical route for Part 1 graduates to obtain the qualifications necessary to become registered architects.

Professional Standards and Accreditation

Architects must meet the standards set by the Architects Registration Board (ARB) and the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). Only those qualified and registered with the ARB can use the title ‘Architect’ in the UK. Kent’s Level 7 Architect Apprenticeship is accredited by the ARB at Part 2 and Part 3.

Combining Practice with Education

Kent’s apprenticeship model acknowledges that technical and organisational skills are best learned in practice. This programme merges employability with aspiration, removing barriers and offering an ideal platform to start a career in architecture.

Multidisciplinary Approach

Building on Kent’s established MArch and Postgraduate Diploma courses, the apprenticeship combines on-the-job learning with advanced academic research and experimentation, reflecting the complexity of architectural theory and practice.

Enhancing Professional Skills

Apprentices leverage their professional maturity and technical skills from daily work to tackle academic challenges, drawing on the University’s diverse resources to enhance their practice.

Qualification

  • Upon successful completion, apprentices will gain a Level 7 Architect Apprenticeship Award. 
  • This programme also enables apprentices to gain Master of Architecture (MArch, Part 2) and Postgraduate Diploma in Architectural Practice (Part 3) alongside the apprenticeship. 
  • Completing this apprenticeship will also give access to Chartered Membership of the Royal Institute of British Architects, following successful registration with the ARB.

Entry requirements

Apprentices are expected to hold an ARB-prescribed Part 1 qualification or Part 1 equivalent as prescribed by the ARB. Applicants also need to hold a GCSE in English and Maths at grade 4 (C grade) or equivalent.

Apprenticeship Duration

The apprenticeship lasts three and a half years, including the end-point assessment.

Hybrid Study Approach

This programme combines intensive on-campus study sessions (typically 5 per year, each lasting 2-5 days) with online tutorial support.

Advisory Sessions

Apprentices meet online with a dedicated Apprenticeship Advisor every 10-12 weeks.

MODULES

The Level 7 Architect Apprenticeship program includes a variety of modules. All modules, except for the End-Point Assessment (EPA), are based on previously validated modules.

MArch with Part 2

  • To be awarded the MArch with Part 2, students must complete modules totaling 240 credits.

PG Dip and Part 3

  • The PG Dip and Part 3 are awarded by passing all modules marked with an asterisk (*) for a total of 120 credits.

Towards the end of the programme, time is allocated for progression formalities, including employer confirmation that students are ready for the EPA and agreement on Design Challenge synopses. Resit opportunities may be offered for any failed modules within this period.

Fees and funding

The cost of this course is £21,000 which can be covered by the apprenticeship levy or by government co-investment. Other costs to consider that are not covered by funding include travel and accommodation at block teaching (if required).

Modules List

ARCH8360 - Design 4a 

ARCH8370 - Design 4B

ARCH5380 - Cultural Context 

ARCH5460 - Technology 4

ARCH8380 - Design 5a

ARCH8390 - Design 5b

ARCH6470 - Technology 5

ARCH6020 - Dissertation 

Modules with an Asterisk (*)

ARCH8570 - Ethics*  

ARCH8580 - Law*  

ARCH8590 - Management *

ARCH8600 - Procurement* 

ARCH8960 - Case Study Context*  

End-Point Assessment

End-point Assessment - Case Study and Design Challenge.   

NEXT STEPS

Employers and Employees

Our team is here to help you apply for the apprenticeship programme, whether you’re ready to join or need guidance on the process. Feel free to contact us for support.

Students and Prospective Apprentices

Apprenticeships are available to those already employed in a relevant position and require the support of an employer to take part. If you are not already employed in a relevant role, please visit our please visit our Becoming an Apprentice page.

Get in Touch

If you have any questions about Kent programmes, need help selecting the right apprenticeship or require information on funding, timelines and more, please don't hesitate to reach out. 

We're always here to help you navigate through the process.