Architect Degree Apprenticeship
Our Architect Degree Apprenticeship offers practices the opportunity to attract, retain and develop talented employees as they work towards registering as qualified architects in the UK.
The Architect Degree Apprenticeship combines the best of practice experience and research-led education. It gives apprentices the opportunity to use their academic studies to enrich their real-world experience, enhancing their learning and confidence, and enabling them to make significant contributions to their employing practice’s research, projects and networks.
Factfile
| Qualification |
MArch Architecture with Collaborative Practice Research (ARB/RIBA Part 2) and Postgraduate Diploma in Professional Practice in Architecture (Part 3) |
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| Duration |
50 months (including end-point assessment)
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| Delivery |
Day release
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| Entry requirements |
Minimum 2:1 degree and a 2:1 standard in final year design studio modules
Part 1 completion in a UK-based recognised School of Architecture
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| Eligibility requirements |
All apprentices on this programme must:
- Be under the age of 22 years on Monday 21 September 2026
- Be working in a job role that provides opportunities to apply and develop the skills, knowledge and behaviours outlined in the
- Work a minimum of 50% of their time in England
- Have access to the agreed off-the-job training hours, during contracted working hours
- Be a UK/EU/EEA national or have lived and have had a right to work in the UK for 3 years or more
English and maths eligibility requirements
English and maths eligibility requirement is assessed based on the apprentice's age at the start of their apprenticeship. Please note that English and maths eligibility requirements do not supersede programme entry requirements.
There is no mandatory requirement for apprentices age 19+ to complete Level 2 English and maths. However, apprentices or employers may opt-in for the apprentice to study towards an English and maths qualification where they don't already have an equivalent qualification, with funding available if they choose to do so.
Apprentices who do not provide a suitable Level 2 English certificate, and do not hold an appropriate English language equivalent qualification from this list, will also need to provide an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) result that is dated within the last two years. The minimum requirement for this programme is an overall score of 6.0, with no less than a 5.5 in each of the individual elements. The university’s policy around this can be found here.
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| Start date |
September 2026
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| Application deadline |
Mid-July 2026
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| Programme fees |
£21,000
Programme fees are paid by the employer either via the apprenticeship levy or they may be eligible for up to 100% co-investment from the government, there is no cost to the apprentice. Read our funding information to find out more.
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| Campus |
- University Park, Nottingham
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- Wallacespace in Clerkenwell Green, Central London
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| School / department |
Department of Architecture and the Built Environment |
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| Accreditation |
- Architect Registration Board (ARB)
- Validated by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA)
The University have applied to the ARB to transition the Level 7 Apprenticeship MArch and PGDip component degrees to the new Mandatory Competencies and will be delivering our programme to these new standards from 2026-27.
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Who is the Architect Degree Apprenticeship for?
Our Architect Degree Apprenticeship is designed to offer practices a cost-effective way to atttract and retain talented Part 1 Architectural Assistants.
Apprentices must have completed their Part 1 in a UK-based recognised School of Architecture and be employed in a job role that provides opportunities to learn the skills, knowledge and behaviours outlined in the Level 7 Architect Apprenticeship Standard. They must also work at least 50% of their time in England.
Before apprentices join the programme, we work with them to determine their level of existing skills and knowledge in order to build a learning plan to provide the support they require to meet the apprenticeship standard.
Funding eligibility requirements
From January 2026, the Government introduced new funding rules for Level 7 apprenticeships. To be eligible for apprenticeship funding on the Level 7 Architect Degree Apprenticeship, apprentices must be under 22 years of age on the first day of learning for the programme (Monday 21 September 2026).
To ensure that practices and prospective apprentices can continue to access apprenticeship funding, the university has removed the previous requirement for six months of relevant work experience. Eligible candidates can now apply directly from the final year of their undergraduate degree, provided they meet all other entry and eligibility requirements.
For candidates who will not meet the apprenticeship funding eligibility criteria, the university will also offer a part-time MArch Collaborative Practice course from September 2026.
Read more about eligibility for degree apprenticeships.
“It's been a benefit to the practice to have someone who's young, enthusiastic, and has the time to invest in research, which is what you get when you when you employ apprentices.
Our apprentices’ digital capabilities have been fantastic, particularly their work for virtual reality and 3D modelling. They have developed the skills that the practice needs, and the university has furthered their knowledge in areas we need them to be experienced in. Seeing the work they are doing at university keeps things interesting and fresh for the rest of us in practice."
David Hickman, Director, Hickman and Smith Architects
Programme Details
The Architect Degree Apprenticeship is delivered over a four and half year period with each year further building on the apprentice's knowledge and skills, the programme is delivered via day release with additional self study days each semester. Over the course of the programme, successful apprentices will be awarded MArch Architecture with Collaborative Practice Research (ARB/RIBA Part 2) and a Postgraduate Diploma in Professional Practice in Architecture (Part 3). They will then progress onto a gateway review and end-point assessment to complete their Architect Degree Apprenticeship.
Successful apprentices will also be eligible to apply to become a registered architect with the ARB in professional practice.
Modules
Please note the below modules are subject to ARB approval.
In year one, apprentices build core skills in design, research and sustainable practice, with a strong focus on regenerative design and working with existing buildings. Through studio projects, they explore global housing cultures, develop human‑centred design responses, and progress to a larger urban re‑use project that integrates site analysis, concept development and technical thinking.
Alongside the studio modules, technology modules strengthen understanding of environmental performance, materials, construction and structure. Technical investigations feed directly into design work, helping apprentices link creative ideas with practical, sustainable solutions.
By the end of year one, apprentices are equipped to contribute to early‑stage design, feasibility studies and retrofit discussions within their practice.
Practice research by design (30 credits)
This studio module develops core architectural design and research skills through a project‑based design process. Apprentices undertake analytical and design‑led investigations of a defined theme, site and research question, using their findings to shape well‑grounded architectural proposals.
Through developing diagram‑based design guides and detailed spatial strategies, apprentices learn to articulate user needs clearly and translate them into architectural form, an approach directly transferable to design briefing, early‑stage concept development and client engagement within practice. Studio workshops and regular tutorials mirror the iterative, collaborative processes of professional design teams.
Recent projects have focused on global domestic cultures and the ways cultural practices influence housing design. Apprentices explore the needs of diverse and migrant communities, challenging standardised housing models and proposing culturally responsive, human‑centred dwellings.
What apprentices learn
- How to apply design‑led research methods to generate and justify architectural proposals
- Approaches to culturally responsive and community‑centred housing
- Skills in producing diagrammatic and analytical design tools
- Confidence in designing at a detailed, human scale that reflects real client needs
Building case study (10 credits)
This module develops an enquiry‑led approach to working with existing buildings, challenging apprentices to re‑imagine and test re‑use scenarios for a range of stakeholders. Through analysing a selected building, apprentices explore its environmental performance, materiality, construction and technology, and use this understanding to propose viable adaptation strategies.
The module strengthens knowledge of the environmental and technological dimensions of architectural design and reinforces the integrative nature of real‑world practice. By engaging directly with retrofit, adaptation and building analysis, apprentices bring practical insights back into the workplace, supporting low‑carbon design thinking, feasibility studies and early‑stage project decision‑making.
Delivered through lectures and workshops, the module provides a structured framework that links technical investigation to design application.
What apprentices learn
- Techniques for analysing existing buildings and evaluating re‑use potential
- Understanding of environmental performance, materials, and construction systems
- Methods for generating and testing adaptation strategies
- Confidence in applying technical knowledge to support design decisions in practice
Live design studio (30 credits)
This design studio develops apprentices’ core architectural design, critical thinking and professional judgement skills through engagement with complex urban contexts and existing buildings. Apprentices explore the spatial, cultural and environmental value of sites, examining issues of urbanism, re‑use and strategic intervention to inform integrated design proposals.
Structured around a sustained design project, the module enables apprentices to develop an individual brief and typology and to progress from analytical investigations of site, programme and context through to the resolution of a complex building proposal. Working in parallel with the co‑requisite technology module, the studio promotes a holistic design approach that integrates tectonic resolution, building performance and spatial quality.
The module emphasises iterative testing of emerging proposals and draws on specialist technical and environmental input through workshops and tutorials. All assessment is project‑based, reflecting professional design processes and supporting direct application to workplace practice.
Delivered through tutorials and workshops, the module provides a structured studio environment that links design exploration, technical understanding and reflective practice.
What apprentices learn
- Advanced design methods for responding to complex urban and contextual challenges
- Techniques for analysing sites and existing buildings to inform strategic re‑use
- Confidence in integrating technology, environmental performance and spatial quality within design proposals
- Skills in developing, testing and communicating design ideas through a structured design process
Applied architectural technology (10 credits)
This module develops apprentices’ practical understanding of the environmental, structural, construction and technological aspects of sustainable architectural design. Through lectures and specialist workshops, apprentices examine themes such as environmental performance, regenerative design, structural strategies and material selection, gaining the technical grounding needed to support an integrated design process.
The module is directly aligned with the co‑requisite studio, with technical investigations informing the development of each apprentice’s architectural proposal. Apprentices test ideas for structure, façade, materials and environmental strategies, documenting their explorations in a summary technical report and developing a physical mock‑up to explore tectonic language. This approach mirrors early‑stage technical design in practice, helping apprentices bring clearer and more justified technical thinking into their workplace projects.
What apprentices learn
- Understanding of environmental, structural and material principles that underpin sustainable design
- Techniques for evaluating and developing technical strategies that support architectural intent
- Skills in producing technical reports and physical mock‑ups to communicate design decisions
- Confidence in integrating technology and design thinking throughout the project process
In year two, apprentices build deeper theoretical, urban and professional knowledge, strengthening their ability to contribute to design strategy and project development in practice. They explore architectural history, theory and culture, while studio work develops advanced urban design skills through multi‑scalar analysis and research‑led design projects.
Apprentices also study professional practice, learning about contracts, regulation, procurement and client relationships, with opportunities to connect this directly to their work in practice. A self‑directed thesis research module allows apprentices to explore a topic of personal or professional interest, laying the foundations for their final‑year design thesis.
Culture and context in practice (10 credits)
This module develops apprentices’ theoretical and critical understanding of architecture as an interdisciplinary field, building on the research foundations established in year one. Apprentices explore architectural history, theory, culture and criticism, learning how these ideas shape contemporary design practice and the wider contexts in which architecture is produced.
The module strengthens apprentices’ ability to identify research questions, select appropriate methods and apply critical thinking quickly and rigorously, skills that support both their studio work and their growing responsibilities in practice. Through lectures, seminars and tutorials, apprentices learn to situate design decisions within broader cultural, social and theoretical frameworks, enabling them to contribute more confidently to conceptual discussions and early-stage project narratives in their employing practice.
What apprentices learn
- How to analyse architectural theory, history and culture and relate it to contemporary practice
- Skills in formulating research questions and selecting suitable research methods
- Techniques for applying critical thinking to design decisions
- Confidence in connecting conceptual ideas with real-world architectural contexts
Architectural urbanism in practice (30 credits)
This design studio develops apprentices’ architectural and urban design skills to an advanced level, building on the analytical and sustainable design foundations established in year one. Through multi‑scalar urban analysis, precedent studies and thematic research, apprentices explore how buildings and urban systems interact, shaping proposals that respond to the complexities of contemporary cities.
The project-based approach mirrors professional design processes, encouraging iterative testing and the integration of spatial, social and environmental considerations. Apprentices’ growing ability to analyse urban context and produce evidence‑led proposals directly strengthens their contribution to strategic and early‑stage design discussions within practice.
What apprentices learn
- Techniques for multi‑scalar urban analysis and precedent research
- How to develop architectural and urban proposals grounded in evidence
- Iterative design methods suited to complex urban contexts
- Confidence in applying analytical insights to workplace projects
Professional studies in practice (20 credits)
This module deepens apprentices’ understanding of professional architectural practice, covering legal frameworks, forms of contract, procurement, building regulations, planning law and professional responsibilities. Structured around the RIBA work stages, the module links theoretical knowledge with real project workflows, enabling apprentices to understand how professional concepts shape everyday practice.
Apprentices apply learning through their host practice - reviewing documents, analysing project processes and engaging with specialist practitioners such as clients, planning consultants and BSA/CDM Principal Designers. This practical integration strengthens apprentices’ ability to participate in professional conversations, understand regulatory requirements and support project management tasks within their workplace.
What apprentices learn
- Understanding of contracts, procurement routes, risk and professional duties
- Awareness of legal and regulatory frameworks that shape architectural practice
- Experience applying theoretical concepts to real project documentation
- Confidence navigating RIBA stages and contributing to project delivery
Live research thesis (20 credits)
This independent, research-led module supports apprentices in developing a substantial illustrated research project that prepares them for their final-year thesis. Apprentices pursue a practice‑based research project developed jointly with their host practice creating direct value for employers, supporting live project challenges, testing new methods, or exploring specialist topics relevant to the practice’s strategic interests.
The module extends the research skills developed in year one, introducing advanced conceptual ideas, research paradigms and methodological approaches from across architecture and related disciplines. Apprentices produce critical writing and drawing that synthesises their ideas and establishes a clear line of inquiry to carry forward into their final thesis.
What apprentices learn
- Advanced research methods and critical thinking skills
- How to define and structure a clear research inquiry
- Skills in conceptual, illustrative and analytical forms of research communication
- Experience generating ideas that inform both academic and practice-based design work
In year three, apprentices complete a major design thesis that reflects both their own research interests and the strategic priorities of their employing practice. In the autumn they translate their research into a project brief and concept design, which is developed into a resolved architectural proposal in the spring.
Alongside this, apprentices explore ethics, professional identity and sustainable business practice through a reflective portfolio. By the end of the year, they demonstrate the level of independence, strategic thinking and design capability expected at Part 2 / MArch, strengthening their contribution to design development and professional decision‑making within practice.
Live thesis portfolio 1 (30 credits)
This module marks the beginning of the final design thesis and builds directly on the research foundations established in the year two Live Thesis Research module. Apprentices translate their research themes into an architectural brief and a conceptual design proposal, developing the strategic foundations for their thesis project.
In the first stage, apprentices prepare a project brief that identifies stakeholders, defines project ambitions (including sustainability and societal priorities) and establishes a building programme before selecting a suitable site. In the second stage, they iteratively test ideas and progress their concept to outline design stage.
The module develops independent working practices, strategic design thinking and an ability to articulate project rationale — all of which strengthen apprentices’ capacity to lead early‑stage design tasks and contribute meaningfully to concept development in their employing practice.
What apprentices learn
Live thesis portfolio 2 (30 credits)
This module continues directly from Portfolio 1 and culminates in the completion of the apprentice’s full design thesis. The emphasis shifts toward the development, refinement and presentation of a comprehensive architectural proposal that serves as ‘proof of concept’ for the ideas established earlier in the year.
Apprentices test and refine their design proposals through a live, iterative design process, developing projects that demonstrate sustainable thinking, societal awareness and ethical practice. The final work evidences clarity of tectonic expression, spatial quality, inclusivity and urban contribution, reflecting the apprentice’s individual design position and professional maturity.
This rigorous design development equips apprentices with the ability to resolve complex design challenges, communicate integrated proposals clearly and work to professional standards, skills directly transferable to advanced design roles within practice.
What apprentices learn
Reflective practice portfolio (20 credits)
This module supports apprentices in examining their personal and professional attitudes toward ethics, sustainability and contemporary architectural practice. Through reflective evaluation and focused workshops, apprentices explore the cultural and organisational contexts of their employing practice, considering how responsibilities to society, communities and the environment influence professional decision-making.
Apprentices reflect on their own workplace experience, analysing practice culture, collaborative working, business operations, resourcing, marketing and sustainable business practice. This process helps apprentices develop a more informed, ethical and proactive approach to professional life, strengthening their ability to contribute positively to their practice and to the wider profession.
What apprentices learn
The final year of the programme encompasses the Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) in Professional Practice (Part 3) studies and readies apprentices for the end-point assessment.
The PGDip in Professional Practice aims to prepare students for entry to the UK Architects Registration Board (ARB) by providing them with the requisite knowledge, skills, understanding and behaviours required to demonstrate their competency within a professional context, using the five professional criteria, as set out by ARB as a framework.
Apprentices who pass this final examination are eligible to apply to enter the register as an architect via the ARB.
Once the apprentice has completed all their on-programme learning, a meeting will take place between their employer and the university. During this meeting, the apprentice’s knowledge, skills and behaviours will be assessed to determine whether they have met the minimum requirements set out in the Architect Degree Apprenticeship standard. Apprentices deemed to have met these requirements will progress onto the end-point assessment (EPA).
End-point assessment (EPA)
The final part of the apprenticeship is the end-point assessment. The end-point assessment requires apprentices to demonstrate that their learning can be applied in the real world.
The end-point assessment will comprise of:
- Presentation supported by a portfolio based on the major/final project undertaken as part of the degree on-programme coursework
- Professional interview supported by practice report
Why choose the Architect Degree Apprenticeship at the 海角黑料?
Our Architect Degree Apprenticeship programme has been amongst the top three providers for the last three years for this standard* and is delivered in both Nottingham and Central London.
*As per ILR data published by the ESFA 2022-5 YTD
University Park is our biggest UK campus and is full of history and heritage as well as being the home of several award-winning buildings. With excellent transport links and state of the art facilities, it’s the home of our architecture teaching within Nottingham.
Apprentices based in the south of England can also benefit from undertaking their degree apprenticeship at our Central London satellite site: Wallacespace; an inspirational space with convenient transport links.
Our Architect Degree Apprenticeship is validated by RIBA and is taught by a top 10 university for architecture*, demonstrating our wealth of teaching expertise and knowledge. We are also rated 'excellent' by employers on the gov.uk website (as of December 2024) showing how employers value the benefits of our programme.
*The Times University Guide and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025.
Working together, we equip your apprentices with the core knowledge, skills and behaviours your industry needs to compete and succeed at the highest level.
Apprenticeship features
Skills Scan
As part of the application and enrolment process, we carry out an individual Skills Skan. This enables us to determine apprentice's existing levels of skill and knowledge and build a personal plan which will set out all the learning, tutorial support, and resources provided by the university.
Tripartite reviews
As part of our continued support for each apprentice and the degree apprenticeship, we offer tripartite reviews between the employer, apprentice and the university to formally assess progress in the academic programme and work-based learning.
Assessment
Each module has a set of marking criteria aligned with its learning outcomes which reflect the ARB Mandatory Competency for the Prescription of Qualifications. The marking criteria are used to assess your work via studio reviews, portfolio submissions, essays, and research papers.. The degree apprenticeship also includes an end-point assessment, which comprises of a career appraisal followed by a professional interview and a case study report supported by a design challenge.
Support team
Each of our Degree Apprenticeship programmes are designed to include full support for the apprentice and their employer. We provide: