Architectural technologist
Creative and Media

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How to become an architectural technologist

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• an apprenticeship
• working towards this role

University

You can qualify as an architectural technologist by taking a degree approved by the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists.

Courses may include a 12-month industry placement. This is a good way to get practical experience and make contacts, which may help when looking for work.

It's possible to qualify as a chartered architectural technologist by studying courses that are lower than degree level, like foundation degrees or higher national diplomas in related subjects.

University (Entry requirements)

You'll usually need:

• 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree

Apprenticeship

You may be able to start an architectural assistant degree apprenticeship with a company. This will usually take 4 years to complete. You'll do on-the-job training and spend time studying at a university. You could also do a design and construction management degree apprenticeship.

Apprenticeship (Entry requirements)

You'll usually need:

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a degree apprenticeship

Work

Employers may take you on as a trainee if you have 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and 2 A levels, in subjects like maths, science, IT and technology. They may accept equivalent qualifications in engineering or construction, for example the Level 3 Advanced Technical Diploma in Constructing the Built Environment. Level 3 courses in 3D design could also be useful.

More info

Career tips Any experience you have using computer-aided design or working in the construction industry can help you get into this career. Professional and industry bodies When you've completed an approved course you can apply for associate membership of the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists. This allows you to complete the professional qualification stage of your training. Further information You'll find more details about becoming an architectural technologist through the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists.

What it takes

Skills & Knowledge

You'll need:

• design skills and knowledge
• knowledge of building and construction
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• knowledge of engineering science and technology
• knowledge of English language
• the ability to work well with others
• the ability to use your initiative
• ambition and a desire to succeed
• to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

What you'll do

Day to day

Your day-to-day task might include:

• assessing clients' needs and planning work 
• collecting and reading technical data
• creating building plans using CAD software
• checking construction plans for possible design problems
• leading the design process and team
• advising clients on environmental and legal regulations
• managing contract bids and tenders
• giving advice to clients and the construction team on which materials and processes to use
• checking progress and inspecting completed building work
• advising and reporting on the maintenance and future use of completed building work

Working environment

You could work on a construction site, in an office, at a client's business or at a client's home.

Career path and progression

Career path & progression

Once you have at least 2 years' work experience, you can work towards Chartered Membership of the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists. With experience you could move into management, work as a consultant or set up your own practice. You could also work in universities or research.