The Level 7 Architect Apprenticeship offers a unique and direct route for ambitious Part 1 graduates working in the industry to achieve professional registration.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The apprenticeship lasts three and a half years, including the end-point assessment.
This programme combines intensive on-campus study sessions (typically 5 per year, each lasting 2-5 days) with online tutorial support.
Apprentices meet online with a dedicated Apprenticeship Advisor every 10-12 weeks.
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.
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.
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).
ARCH8360 - Design 4a
ARCH8370 - Design 4B
ARCH5380 - Cultural Context
ARCH5460 - Technology 4
ARCH8380 - Design 5a
ARCH8390 - Design 5b
ARCH6470 - Technology 5
ARCH6020 - Dissertation
ARCH8570 - Ethics*
ARCH8580 - Law*
ARCH8590 - Management *
ARCH8600 - Procurement*
ARCH8960 - Case Study Context*
End-point Assessment - Case Study and Design Challenge.
Read about Holly's experience on the L7 Architect apprenticeship.
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.
