Course overview

This course is designed to cover current practice issues, recent legal and building legislation and contractual issues, and is recognised by Architects Registration (ARB) and the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). Successful completion, together with Part 1 and Part 2 qualifications, enables registration with the Architects Registration Board.

The course is a part-time professional academic programme that runs for a period of one year. It is continuously updated to respond to the latest issues regarding legislation, contracts, management and practice. The course encompasses practice-based learning through a case study and is delivered through intensive three-day teaching seminars.

The course syllabus also covers important peripheral matters on the environment and sustainability, a broad understanding of the construction industry in social and economic terms, and wider issues of practice and project management.

Is this the right course for me?

To join this course you will need five years of academic study in architecture and the potential to achieve a minimum of 24 months recorded practical training in an architectural practice or related profession at the point of the oral examination, taken at the end of the course. Typical candidates are:

• students with an RIBA validated or ARB prescribed Part 1 and 2 award wishing to undertake the Part 3 final examination
• International students with the equivalent qualifications in Architecture to the UK Parts 1 and 2

Suitability for the course will be assessed at interview, through review of relevant experience. Students from other schools of architecture are welcome on the course. Delivery is designed to suit students who are based outside of Hampshire, with teaching delivered through three- day seminars at two month intervals.

This course requires a considerable commitment from candidates in terms of time and personal self-directed study.

Course content

The course comprises three compulsory units:

Topical Essay (30 credits): this unit enables you to work in a small group to research a given topic over a period of months. You will be asked to present a scholarly text which critically appraises your particular area of research. Your group is also asked to produce a handout for fellow students, combining the findings of the group, and to make a formal presentation to the class during the summer seminar. This unit allows large areas of practice and construction industry knowledge to be covered by the groups to the benefit of all participants.

Professionalism, Law and Contract, Practice and Management (30 credits): this unit covers the main topics as set out in the ARB/RIBA syllabus. It will make you aware of the size and relative importance of the construction industry to other sectors of the national and international economy, as well as the role of the architectural profession relative to the industry. It will also introduce legislation and the law applicable to architectural practice and building procurement, giving you an understanding of the principles and processes of practice management and business administration. The unit is delivered through lectures together with a one-day contract workshop using real-life scenarios which are examined, discussed and responded to.  This unit is assessed through formal examination. Past papers are available and candidates are encouraged to practise these prior to the formal examination.

Professional Experience and Practice-Based Learning (60 credits): this unit is where you can demonstrate your understanding of good practice and management skills through interpretation of practical experience. The case study provides you with an opportunity to demonstrate your ability and professional judgement in coping with situations and problems that arise during the course of a typical building project. It is the key document that will illustrate to the examiners the professional knowledge and experience you have gained through your involvement with the project. The professional career evaluation should be carried out with a high degree of professionalism and is a critical evaluation of your career to date. These two documents, together with a personal CV and practical training records, form the documentary submission for this element of the course. Group and individual tutorials will be offered for the career evaluation and case study components.

Teaching and assessment

The course is taught using a variety of methods:

• Seminars: the seminar series is designed to allow you to get away from the pressure of the office and concentrate on the intensive input offered during these seminars. They are set up as a series of lectures and workshops delivered by various speakers, who are experienced and often specialists in their own field. Workshops are included in the seminar sessions and you will be are problems to resolve in groups and present to your colleagues.
• Tutorials: you will be expected to attend an individual tutorial at the enrolment stage of the course to discuss case study topics and practical experience. You will also be able to arrange individual tutorials for your case study and career evaluation as required for the duration of the course.
• Study groups: you will be encouraged to form study groups for the topical research project and presentation, and to assist each other at the revision stage, prior to examination. The formation of groups is usually based on geographical location. You are encouraged to meet regularly, revise together and practise past examination papers.
• Self-directed learning: at this stage of your career you are expected to be self- motivated, well organised, well versed in study skills and able to determine your own study programme.

You will be assessed in a variety of ways, including coursework and examinations. The purpose of the examination is not only to test your skills and knowledge, but also your experience and judgement regarding organisation and management of architectural practice, the design and procurement of building, and operational relationships between the architect, client, contractor and associated bodies. Assessment will encompass your knowledge of professional practice, ability to apply knowledge in practice and the quality of professional judgement exhibited in doing so.

Career prospects

The Final Certificate in Architecture carries the Part 3 award (recognised by the ARB and the RIBA) and will enable you to join the register of architects held by the ARB.

Facilities and features

The School of Architecture is based in the award-winning Portland Building, designed by the RIBA gold medallist Professor Sir Colin Stansfield- Smith. The building incorporates many of the principles of effective and environmentally sensitive architecture. Apart from being a fantastic place to learn and study, it is an example of how important buildings are in creating an environment that is conducive to learning. The School provides a vibrant and friendly community for both staff and students.

Entry requirements

The entry requirements for Final Examination in Professional Practice (Part 3) Architecture are shown above, for more detailed information please contact:

Department: Portsmouth School of Architecture (ARCH)
Tel: +44 (0)23 9284 2421
Email: create.admissions@port.ac.uk