ARB consultation on education and training reforms

The Architects Registration Board (ARB) has launched a consultation on education and training reforms.

ARB is proposing to remove Parts 1, 2 and 3 and replace it by two phases of accreditation consisting of training and practice. In doing so, the aim is to widen access into the profession by reducing the time and cost it takes to become a qualified architect.

The main changes under these proposals are that: 

• an ARB accredited undergraduate degree in architecture will no longer be required. Although it is expected that many will continue to obtain a Bachelor of Architecture, those with a different degree or relevant professional experience will also be eligible;
• qualifications will need to meet ARB's Academic Outcomes from an educational establishment accredited by ARB. This would be equivalent to a Masters or a Level 7 qualification in England. Other types of qualifications – such as those that cover Levels 6 and 7 together, or apprenticeships – could also be accredited under this framework;
• ARB will also accredit training. Applicants will need to have a qualification that meets ARB's Practice Outcomes. This qualification (e.g. the diploma or certificate) is accredited by ARB and is given by an awarding body;
• applicants holding qualifications accredited by ARB (and therefore meeting all Academic and Practice outcomes) can join the Register. ARB will be assured that they can demonstrate all Academic and Practice Outcomes.

Further information about the reforms can be found here. Other resources include the response from RIBA on these reforms.

The questions of the consultation can be found below:

ARB consultation document

It is CIAT's intention to respond to this consultation. To that end, we invite you to review the consultation document and share your views and any observations with us on whether you think this is a threat or opportunity. You are welcome to write any comments on the Word document above and send it back to [email protected] by Friday 31 March.

You are of course welcome to make your own comments on the consultation directly to ARB.