Architects design new buildings and the spaces around them. They also work on the restoration and conservation of existing buildings. They manage the construction process, control budgets and deal with planning issues. If you are well organised, creative and interested in buildings and construction, this could be the perfect job for you.

As an architect, you would create a design that takes all of your clients’ requirements into account, as well as other issues including:

• budget
• safety
• social factors
• building regulations
• planning laws.

Once a design is agreed, you would:

• produce a set of detailed drawings for the building contractor, which has precise dimensions and materials
• work closely with contractors, engineers, surveyors, lawyers and planning departments
• regularly inspect the construction work to check progress.

You would be responsible for a building project from the earliest stage through to completion. On larger jobs, you could work in a team alongside other architects and architectural technicians or technologists.

Key skills:

• an interest in buildings and their uses
• practical and scientific skills
• a methodical, logical and analytical approach
• design and computer/CAD skills
• strong mathematical ability
• good business awareness
• strong communication and negotiating skills
• the ability to manage and lead a team
• the ability to work under pressure to deadlines
• an awareness of the social and environmental impact of your work.

Qualifications and training required:

The most common way to qualify as an architect involves:

• five years’ study on a university course recognised by the Architects Registration Board (ARB)
• two years’ professional experience.

This is made up by the following steps:

• a three-year, full-time undergraduate BA or BSc degree in architecture
• up to 12 months’ paid professional experience in an architectural practice
  (known as Stage 1)

• a further two-year, full-time degree, for example a BArch, Diploma or MArch

• at least one year’s paid experience (known as Stage 2) and a professional exam.

As part of the qualifying process, you would document your progress on your Professional Experience and Development Record (PEDR).

Source: https://nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk