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Students
Tuition Fee
GBP 2,630
Per year
Start Date
2025-09-01
Medium of studying
Fully Online
Duration
12 months
Program Facts
Program Details
Degree
Diploma
Major
Architecture | Building Design | Construction Management | Urban Planning
Area of study
Architecture and Construction
Education type
Fully Online
Timing
Part time
Course Language
English
Tuition Fee
Average International Tuition Fee
GBP 2,630
Intakes
Program start dateApplication deadline
2025-09-01-
2026-09-01-
About Program

Program Overview


Professional Practice in Architecture (ARB/RIBA Part 3) at UCA

Overview

Complete the final stage in your training to become an architect with our Postgraduate Certificate in Professional Practice in Architecture (Part 3). This 12-month course provides you with the foundation for life-long learning and development towards becoming a certified member of the architectural profession.


Course Details

  • Duration: 1 year part-time
  • Campus: Canterbury
  • Start date(s): September 2025, September 2026
  • Entry requirements: Applicants should have a RIBA/ARB Part 1 and Part 2 in architecture or equivalent.

What You'll Study

The course is divided into two units:


Unit One: Practice and Entrepreneurship

  • PC3 Legal framework and processes
    • The relevant UK legal systems, civil liabilities, and the laws of contract and tort (delict)
    • Planning and Conservation Acts, guidance, and processes
    • Building regulations, approved documents, and standards, guidance, and processes
    • Land law, property law, and rights of other proprietors
    • Terms within construction contracts implied by statute
    • Health and safety legislation and regulations
    • Statutory undertakers and authorities, their requirements, and processes
    • Environmental and sustainability legislation
    • Historic buildings legislation
    • Accessibility and inclusion legislation
  • PC4 Practice and management
    • The roles of architectural practice in the construction industry
    • External factors affecting construction and practice at national and international levels
    • Practice structures, legal status, and business styles
    • Personnel management and employment-related legislation
    • Practice finance, business planning, funding, and taxation
    • Marketing, fee calculation, bidding, and negotiation
    • Resource management and job costing
    • Administration, quality management, QA systems, recording, and review
    • Staff development, motivation, supervision, and planning
    • Team working and leadership
  • PC5 Building procurement
    • Procurement methods, including for public and larger projects and relevant legislation
    • The effect of different procurement processes on programme, cost, risk, and quality
    • Collaboration in construction and provisions for team working
    • Tendering methods, codes, procedures, and project planning
    • Forms of contract and sub-contract, design responsibility, and third-party rights
    • Application and use of contract documentation
    • Roles of design/construction team members and their interaction
    • Duties and powers of a lead consultant and contract administrator
    • Site processes, quality monitoring, progress recording, payment, and completion
    • Claims, litigation, and alternative dispute resolution methods

Unit Two: Professional Development and Reflection

  • PC1 Professionalism
    • Professional ethics
    • The architect's obligation to society and the protection of the environment
    • Professional regulation, conduct, and discipline
    • Institutional membership, benefits, obligations, and codes of conduct
    • Attributes of integrity, impartiality, reliability, and courtesy
    • Time management, recording, planning, and review
    • Effective communication, presentation, confirmation, and recording
    • Flexibility, adaptability, and the principles of negotiation
    • Autonomous working and taking responsibility within a practice context
    • Continuing professional development
  • PC2 Clients, users, and delivery of services
    • Types of clients, their priorities, and the management of the relationship
    • Briefing, organizing, and the programming of services appropriate to appointment
    • Architects' contracts, terms of engagement, scope of services, and relevant legislation
    • Obligations to stakeholders, warranties, and third-party rights
    • Communication, progress reporting, and the provision of appropriate and timely advice
    • Budget and financial awareness and cost monitoring or control
    • Responsibility for coordination and integration of design team input
    • Invoicing, payment of fees, and financial management
    • Intellectual property rights and copyright law
    • Duty of care, professional liability, negligence, and professional indemnity including insurance

Assessment

The assessment comprises several elements for successful completion and are as follows:


  • Legal Frameworks Online exam
  • Architectural Practice Management Report
  • Professional Case Study
  • Oral Examination (taken in the final month of the course)
  • Record of Professional Experience; evidence of 24 months' professional experience, usually recorded in the form of a Professional Experience Development Record (PEDR)
  • Career Appraisal, inclusive of your CV

Fees and Funding

  • Tuition fees: £2,630 (2025/26)
  • Financial support: There are lots of ways you can access additional financial support to help you fund your studies - both from UCA and from external sources.
  • Additional course costs: In addition to the tuition fees, there may be other costs for your course, such as books, printing costs, occasional or optional study trips, and/or project materials.

Careers

This qualification is the final stage in training to become an architect and will leave graduates with the skills and competencies needed to become a professional architect. Graduates might go on to work in roles that include:


  • Freelance architect
  • Architectural technologist
  • CAD technician
  • Town planner
  • Urban designer
  • Interior & spatial designer

Accreditations, Partners, and Industry Connections

  • RIBA: The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) is a global professional membership body and charity, driving excellence in architecture.
  • ARB: The Architects' Registration Board (ARB) is an independent professional regulator, accountable to government. It ensures only those who are suitably competent are allowed to practice as architects.

Program Outline


Postgraduate Certificate Professional Practice Architecture: A Detailed Analysis


Degree Overview:

The Postgraduate Certificate in Professional Practice in Architecture (Part 3) at the University for the Creative Arts (UCA) is the final stage in your training to become a certified architect. This 12-month, predominantly online course provides the foundation for lifelong learning and development as you strive towards professional membership in the architectural field. By offering flexibility and convenience, the program allows you to manage your studies alongside your professional commitments.


Objectives:

The program aims to equip you with the necessary skills and competencies to embark on a successful career as a professional architect. Specifically, you will:

  • Develop critical understanding of the professional, ethical, and legal frameworks within the architectural practice.
  • Master the application of knowledge and understanding of your chosen subject area in addressing architectural complexities.
  • Develop the professional skills, attributes, and behaviors expected of a qualified architect.

Outline:

The curriculum is designed to cover the core areas of architectural practice, aligning with the Professional Competencies (PC) outlined by the ARB/RIBA. The program is structured as follows:


Unit 1: Practice and Entrepreneurship (PC3, 4, & 5)

  • Delivered through online lectures and intensive tutorial/seminar days.
  • Focuses on the legal, financial, and administrative aspects of architectural practice.
  • Covers topics such as: legal frameworks, practice management, building procurement, and environmental legislation.

Unit 2: Professional Development and Reflection (PC1 & 2)

  • Delivered through online lectures and intensive tutorial/seminar days.
  • Focuses on professional ethics, conduct, and interpersonal skills.
  • Covers topics such as: professional responsibility, communication skills, and client relationships.

Assessment:

The program employs a comprehensive assessment strategy to evaluate your knowledge and skills:

  • Online Exam: Assessing your understanding of the legal frameworks.
  • Architectural Practice Management Report: Demonstrating your ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios.
  • Professional Case Study: Analyzing a real-world architectural project and applying relevant concepts.
  • Oral Examination: Evaluating your communication and presentation skills in a professional setting.
  • Record of Professional Experience: Documenting 24 months' professional experience, typically through a Professional Experience Development Record (PEDR).
  • Career Appraisal: Assessing your career aspirations and professional development plan.

Teaching:

The program utilizes a blended learning approach, incorporating both online and in-person elements:

  • Online Lectures: Providing access to learning materials at your convenience.
  • Intensive Tutorial/Seminar Days: Enabling active participation and discussion in a collaborative environment.

Teaching Staff:

The program is led by experienced and qualified faculty members who actively engage in research and professional practice. Students benefit from expert guidance and industry insights.


Careers:

Graduates of this program are well-equipped to pursue diverse career paths within the architectural field. Potential career options include:

  • Freelance Architect: Setting up your own architectural practice and working independently.
  • Architectural Technologist: Utilizing your technical expertise in the design and development process.
  • Town Planner: Contributing to sustainable urban development and planning initiatives.
  • Urban Designer: Shaping the built environment and enhancing the quality of urban spaces.
  • Interior & Spatial Designer: Designing functional and aesthetically pleasing interior spaces.

Other:

  • The program requires a minimum of 24 months' practical experience under the supervision of a practicing architect, with at least 12 months within the EEA, Channel Islands, or Isle of Man.
  • Graduates are eligible to register with the ARB upon successful completion of the program.
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About University
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Foundation
Courses

University of the Creative Arts


Overview:

University of the Creative Arts (UCA) is a specialist creative university in the UK, known for its high-quality art and design programs. It is ranked among the top specialist creative universities in the UK, particularly for its world-leading research outputs.


Services Offered:

UCA offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

    Accommodation:

    On-campus accommodation options are available across its various campuses.

    Student Support:

    Comprehensive student support services are provided, including academic guidance, career advice, and mental health support.

    Libraries:

    Well-equipped libraries are available on each campus, providing access to a vast collection of resources.

    Students' Union:

    The Students' Union offers a platform for student engagement, social activities, and representation.

    Galleries:

    UCA has galleries on its campuses showcasing student and professional artwork.

    Fees & Finance:

    Information on fees and funding options for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs is available.

Student Life and Campus Experience:

UCA provides a vibrant and supportive campus environment for its students. The university emphasizes diversity and inclusion, fostering a welcoming atmosphere for all. Students can expect:

    Active Student Life:

    Opportunities for social interaction, clubs, societies, and events.

    Creative Community:

    A strong sense of community among students and staff, passionate about the creative arts.

    Modern Facilities:

    Access to state-of-the-art studios, workshops, and equipment.

    Campus Locations:

    UCA has campuses in Canterbury, Epsom, Farnham, and Maidstone, offering diverse learning environments.

Key Reasons to Study There:

    High Rankings:

    UCA consistently ranks among the top specialist creative universities in the UK.

    World-Leading Research:

    The university excels in research, particularly in the field of art and design.

    Industry Connections:

    Strong links with industry professionals and employers, providing valuable career opportunities.

    Diverse Programs:

    A wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various creative disciplines.

    Supportive Environment:

    A welcoming and inclusive campus culture that encourages student growth and development.

Academic Programs:

UCA offers a comprehensive range of academic programs, including:

    Undergraduate Programs:

    Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Science (BSc) degrees in various creative fields.

    Postgraduate Programs:

    Master of Arts (MA), Master of Science (MSc), and Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degrees.

    Research Degrees:

    PhD and MPhil programs in specialized areas of creative research.

Other:

    International Students:

    UCA welcomes international students and provides support services for their transition.

    Study Abroad:

    Opportunities for students to study abroad at partner institutions.

    Innovation Hub:

    UCA has an Innovation Hub that fosters collaboration and entrepreneurship among students and researchers.

The provided context does not include information on the following sections:

    Student Life and Campus Experience:

    While the context mentions diversity and inclusion, it lacks details about specific student life aspects and campus experiences.

    Key Reasons to Study There:

    The context highlights rankings and research, but it does not explicitly state other key reasons for choosing UCA.

Total programs
106
Admission Requirements

Entry Requirements:


UK and EU Home Students:

  • Applicants should have a RIBA/ARB Part 1 and Part 2 in architecture or equivalent.

International Overseas Students (outside EU):

  • Applicants should have a RIBA/ARB Part 1 and Part 2 in architecture or equivalent.
  • If your first language is not English, a certificate is required as evidence that you have an average IELTS score of 6.0 or equivalent.
  • You may be offered a place on the course on the condition that you improve your English language and study skills.
  • The university offers pre-sessional English language courses which can improve your IELTS score by a maximum of 1.0 or 0.5, or equivalent.

Language Proficiency Requirements:

  • IELTS: Average score of 6.0, with no individual band below 5.5.
  • Other equivalent qualifications:
  • Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE), with a minimum score of 169.
  • Pearson Test of English (Academic): PTE Academic with a minimum score of 59.
  • TOEFL iBT: 79.
  • Duolingo English Test: 110.
  • Trinity ISE II with a Pass in all four components.
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