About Architecture (Degree Apprenticeship), BA (Hons) - at University of Portsmouth

Overview

Architects design buildings and play a role in shaping cities, communities and the way we live.

This Architectural Assistant Degree Apprenticeship course is the first step to developing the technical and analytical skills you need to begin a career as an architect – all while earning a salary and getting on-the-job experience.

During term time, you'll spend one day a week on day release at the University and the other four days applying your skills and getting practical experience in the workplace. The Government or your employer pay your tuition fees – so your architecture degree doesn’t cost you anything.

When you finish your apprenticeship, you'll have a Bachelor's degree in architecture and you'll be primed to take on further study to continue your journey in becoming a registered architect.

Course highlights

• Explore design in collaborative studio spaces alongside your peers, while developing your individual and team skills
• Expand your architectural thinking beyond practice with specialist tutors and architects
• Access the latest software, including BIM modelling, advanced parametric modelling, environmental evaluation software, 3d scanning and printing tools, to support your design work and challenge your creative thinking
• Explore a variety of architectural challenges outside of practice to develop your design creativity
• Develop design skills through model making, material testing, sketching and drawing
• Have access to the University's student support services and community, including the Library, study support, sports and recreation facilities, and the Students’ Union
• Build a network of professional peers during your time at university, sharing your ideas and knowledge
• Get practical work experience in your job, giving you an advantage in leaving the course, with four years' experience plus your qualifications
• Get a personal tutor from the University and a workplace mentor

Recognition and validation

This course is validated by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and provides an exemption from RIBA Part 1.

Due to changes by the Architects Registration Board (ARB), the prescription of all Part 1 Architecture Courses in the UK will end on 31 December 2027. The ARB Part 1 prescription will no longer be required for registration as an Architect in the UK. Students starting this course from September 2025 onwards will finish the course after this date, meaning their degree will not be ARB-prescribed. This will not affect a student's ability to qualify as a UK architect, as the ARB will continue accrediting Master's level qualifications as part of the route to registration. Validation by the RIBA for Courses will remain, and our BA (Hons) Architecture course will continue as a RIBA-validated course. 

Careers and opportunities

Many architecture graduates continue their training towards becoming a registered architect with further study at Master's level or registration on a Architect Degree Apprenticeship (Master of Architecture and Professional Practice).

You can use your skills in areas such as:

• design practice
• planning
• historic building conservation
• project management

Roles our architecture graduates have taken on include:

• architectural design
• interior design
• landscape architecture
• urban design and master planning
• planning
• architectural technology
• product design
• graphic design
• lighting design
• set design

After you leave the University, you can get help, advice and support for up to 5 years from our Careers and Employability service as you advance in your career.

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Entry requirements for this course

Contact University of Portsmouth to find course entry requirements.

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