PgCert Architecture and Contemporary Practice (RIBA Part 3)
Program start date | Application deadline |
2025-09-01 | - |
2025-01-01 | - |
Program Overview
PgCert Architecture and Contemporary Practice (RIBA Part 3)
Overview
The Architecture and Contemporary Practice programme at Manchester Metropolitan University comprises a short course that prepares candidates for their RIBA Part 3 examination, followed by the Architect Registration Board’s (ARB) Professional Practice examination. Upon completion, successful candidates who have also completed their RIBA Part 1 and Part 2 examinations will be eligible for registration under the Architects Registration Act 1997 and for Chartered membership of RIBA.
Features
- Benefit from a tailored mentoring plan including PPE (Professional Practical Experience) reviews for the duration of the programme
- Online/in-person tutorials to suit individual requirements
- Maximum 10 days attendance (including exams)
- Course delivery is spread out for the duration of the programme, with the Contemporary Practice lecture series occurring one day per week, in February and March
- Covers key topics in contemporary practice, including regulation and legislation, planning, procurement, and more
Duration
- 9 months part-time (September start)
- 12 months part-time (January start)
Teaching and Learning
The Manchester School of Architecture is a vibrant school with an international reputation, consistently within the top 3 UK schools of Architecture according to QS World University Rankings. MSA students are presented with a rich and diverse set of opportunities to learn from each other, professionals, the city, and the society around them.
Our Professional Studies Team is led by permanent members of staff who maintain roles in practice. All MSA's Professional Studies Advisors are registered architects, some of whom have many years of experience as RIBA Part 3 examiners.
Candidates enrolled on the Architecture and Contemporary Practice programme will also receive the following benefits:
- Support from Peer Study Group and online learning platforms
- Access to physical and digital library and campus facilities at Manchester Metropolitan University
- Minimum of 6 individual tutorials with an assigned Professional Studies Tutor
- PPE certification (PEDR or equivalent) for the duration of the programme
- Office briefing
- Directed study modules (assessed via 2x office-based, open-book exams, PPE document submission, and final Professional Interview)
Units
- Contemporary Practice 30 credits
- Professional Perspectives 30 credits
Contemporary Practice
Following induction, you will be supported by Professional Studies Advisors (PSAs) in the review and drafting of your experience records to date at key points in the timetable. This guided reflection enables you to develop the skills, knowledge, and understanding of the Professional Criteria. This will be done in parallel to the lectures and workshops that consolidate and synthesise the knowledge you have gained in practice in readiness for your Part 3 examination.
Professional Perspectives
The Professional Perspectives module comprises self-directed reflection with support from Professional Studies Advisors. Building on the process that was started in the Contemporary Practice module, you will develop and complete documentary submissions before attending an interview (oral examination). Candidates who successfully complete the examination at the end of this module are eligible for registration under the Architects Registration Act 1997 and for Chartered Membership of the RIBA if they also have ARB Part 1 and Part 2 recognition. This examination in Professional Practice is required by the Architects Registration Board.
Career Prospects
Completion of the RIBA Part 3 - following completion of Part 1 and Part 2 - will allow candidates to register with the Architects Registration Board and for Chartered Membership of RIBA, opening up a wide range of career possibilities across both public and private sectors:
- Architecture
- Landscape architecture
- Interior design
- Urban planning
- Project management
Staff Team
- Rachel Newton PgCert Architecture and Contemporary Practice RIBA P3 Programme Leader
- Stephen McCusker Senior Lecturer, School Professional Skills Lead
- John Hickey Lecturer in Architecture: Professional Studies
- Alison Taylor Stokes
Manchester School of Architecture
Overview:
Manchester School of Architecture (MSA) is a collaborative venture between Manchester Metropolitan University and The University of Manchester. It boasts over 100 years of combined experience, over 100 expert faculty members, and over 1000 students from 80 countries. MSA is renowned for its innovative approach to architecture, producing creative, challenging, and academically rigorous work and research. It is currently ranked 5th in the world in the QS 2024 Architecture rankings.
Services Offered:
MSA offers a range of services to its students, including:
Professional Studies Advisor (PSA) Mentoring Service:
Provides support and guidance to architecture graduates during their professional practical experience.MSA LIVE:
An annual program of student-led live projects.Employer events and opportunities:
Connects students with potential employers.MSA Shop:
Offers a range of MSA branded merchandise.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Key Reasons to Study There:
World-class ranking:
MSA is currently ranked 5th in the world in the QS 2024 Architecture rankings.Experienced faculty:
Over 100 experts in their architectural fields provide guidance and mentorship.Diverse student body:
Students from over 80 countries create a vibrant and international learning environment.Innovative approach:
MSA fosters a culture of creativity, challenge, and academic rigor.Strong industry connections:
MSA provides opportunities for students to connect with potential employers.Academic Programs:
MSA offers a variety of undergraduate, postgraduate, and research degrees, including:
Undergraduate:
- BA (Hons) Architecture with Foundation Year
- BA (Hons) Architecture (RIBA Part 1)
Postgraduate:
- Master of Architecture (RIBA Part 2)
- PgCert Architecture and Contemporary Practice (RIBA Part 3)
- MA Architecture and Adaptive Reuse
- MA Architecture and Urbanism
- Master of Landscape Architecture (MLA)
Research Degrees:
- PhD
- MPhil
Other:
MSA is committed to research and collaboration, with initiatives like:
Research:
MSA conducts research in various areas of architecture and urbanism.URBED+:
A research group focused on urban regeneration and development.MSA also has a strong presence in the city of Manchester, with its facilities located in the heart of the city.