Date: 20 January 08
Author: Caroline Ednie, Web Editor
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The study of architecture encourages students to develop new ways of seeing, thinking and doing. Indeed, architecture is perhaps the most multi-disciplinary of any field, in that it draws together science, technology, design, the arts, mathematics, heritage, history and culture.
The majority of architecture students enter higher education with little experience of architecture as a discipline, and as a result of this, a large part of architectural education is concerned with the development of new ideas, values and abilities. Architectural education is almost universally project based, with the majority of activity centred on the design studio. By its nature, architectural education is rich, varied and interdisciplinary.
Most architectural training takes a minimum of seven years, which is normally broken into three stages. This involves a five-year degree programme on a course that is recognised by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and the Architects Registration Board (ARB). This is usually divided into two parts: a three year first degree, known as RIBA Part 1 followed by two years of further study, known as RIBA Part 2.
During this time you are also expected to acquire two years Professional Experience in an architects office or equivalent. One year is usually taken after Part 1 (Stage 1 Professional Experience), and the other year after Part 2 (Stage 2 Professional Experience). When you have completed these stages you will be qualified to sit the RIBA Part 3 Examination in Professional Practice and Management.
For a comprehensive insight into the study of architecture click on the following link to scottisharchitecture.com’s Student’s Guide to Studying Architecture in Scotland.
Main Image: Jewel and Esk Valley College Edinburgh Campus by RMJM Architects. Scotland’s largest and most ambitious further education project, with two new Lothian based campuses, which opened to students in October 2008.
