Architecture - Professional Practice in Architecture

This programme has been running at QUB since the 1970s. It is for graduates of architecture wishing to continue their trajectory into the registered and chartered architects’ profession.



The programme is regularly updated and has evolved to address how all aspects of contemporary practise follow design processes; of determining desired performance and outcomes, identifying solutions, appraising risks and opportunities, determining the optimum solution and monitoring its delivery.



From one’s personal career trajectory, to configuration of businesses, teams, contracts and methods of manifesting projects into reality, this programme helps each candidate become the independent, competent professional expected in the design, property and construction industries, to address the legacy of Grenfell and challenges of climate emergency and societal well-being.



This Postgraduate Certificate provides exemption from the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Final Examination Part III and is recognised by the Architects Registration Board (ARB) for the UK for the purposes of registration under the Architects Act 1997.





Candidates can take additional optional 1-2 day workshops which are available within this award and subject to an additional fee.



One such additional workshop focuses on Contracts and Regulatory and Professional Frameworks within southern Ireland, and if taken, could support, along with this postgraduate certificate, an application for membership of the Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland (RIAI) via their “Route B”.

Core Modules

Professional Practice in Architecture (60 credits)

Entrance requirements

Graduate

Entry is open to applicants who have successfully completed the Queen's University Belfast BSc in Architecture or equivalent qualification prescribed by the UK Architects Registration Board and confirmed as so by them in writing, or listed on the ARB website.



Applicants must also have successfully completed (i) the Queen's University Belfast BArch or MArch or equivalent qualification prescribed by the UK Architects Registration Board and confirmed by them in writing or listed on the ARB website.



Applicants from other institutions must normally be able to demonstrate that they have taken and successfully completed Professional Studies type elements within their RIBA/ARB Part 1 and Part 2 courses to the satisfaction of the University.



Professional experience at Part 3 level is normally required within UK or Ireland jurisdiction.



For the successful completion of this programme to have the status of Part 3, international applicants must demonstrate, as outlined above, through ARB confirmation in writing or the via ARB’s “The Examination” assessment process that the applicant possesses the equivalent qualifications for ARB Parts 1 and 2. Only then will a graduate of this programme be able to apply for registration with ARB and consequent chartered membership of the RIBA and /or registration with the Royal Institute of Irish Architects through their Route B process. Applicants considering a “Route B” application to the RIAI are advised to familiarise themselves with the current RIAI process and requirements before embarking on this programme.



International applicants who do not demonstrate that they possess the equivalent qualifications for RIBA/ARB Parts 1 and 2 may be permitted to undertake the programme for personal professional development purposes only.



As part of the application process you are required to complete the relevant questionnaire and upload with a current CV.



International Students

Our country/region pages include information on entry requirements, tuition fees, scholarships, student profiles, upcoming events and contacts for your country/region at https://www.qub.ac.uk/Study/international-students/your-country/



English Language Requirements

Evidence of an IELTS* score of 7.0, with not less than 6.0 in any component, or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University is required (*taken within the last 2 years).



International students wishing to apply to Queen's University Belfast (and for whom English is not their first language), must be able to demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to benefit fully from their course of study or research. Non-EEA nationals must also satisfy UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) immigration requirements for English language for visa purposes.



For more information on English Language requirements for EEA and non-EEA nationals see: www.qub.ac.uk/EnglishLanguageReqs.



If you need to improve your English language skills before you enter this degree programme, INTO Queen's University Belfast offers a range of English language courses. These intensive and flexible courses are designed to improve your English ability for admission to this degree.

The deadline for applications is normally 31st October 2026. However, we encourage applicants to apply as early as possible. In the event that any programme receives a high number of applications, the University reserves the right to close the application portal earlier than 31st October deadline. Notifications to this effect will appear on the application portal against the programme application page.



Please note: A deposit will be required to secure a place on this course.

Submission of validated tri-monthly PEDR (Professional Experience and Development Record) sheets for the 24-month, office-based experience.


Office-based case study

Office-based examination

CV

Personal evaluation of experience

Oral examination


To qualify for the Certificate, all students must pass all of the elements at a minimum threshold level to the satisfaction of the examiners. By the final examination at the end of this programme all students must have a minimum total of 24 months formally-recorded (PEDR or equivalent system) practical experience of which a minimum of 12 months must be in a UK-based architectural practice since graduating at Part II level.

1 year (Part Time).

Entry Year: Academic Year 2026/27

Career Prospects

Introduction

Part III is the final examination in an architect's education and the foundation for lifelong learning and development as a member of the architectural profession. Graduates who have successfully completed this programme are eligible for entry on to the register of architects with the ARB, registration with the RIAI and chartered membership of RIBA.