Criteria revised for architecture students sitting Part 3

The RIBA and the Architects Registration Board have revised the criteria governing the practical experience that must be undertaken by architecture students prior to sitting the Part 3 examination.

They have worked together to develop a common requirement which will satisfy both the RIBA’s Part 3 examination regulations and the ARB’s requirements for registration.

The changes, which have been implemented with immediate effect, seek to reflect the global nature of the practice of architecture by allowing for greater flexibility in terms of the types of placement that students can undertake during their professional experience in terms of location, timing and supervising professional. 

The new requirements place an increased emphasis on the quality of the experience itself, and how it contributes to competence against the Part 3 criteria.

David Gloster, RIBA director of education, said: “In agreeing these revisions to the practical experience requirements, the RIBA acknowledges that graduates can benefit from exposure to, and understanding of, different disciplines operating in varied construction locations.

“The changes to practical experience eligibility criteria will facilitate graduates’ capability to accumulate the necessary experience for their PEDR, and enrich their grasp of the connections between all members of the professional design team.”

David Jones, chair of ARB’s prescription committee, added: “This has been an excellent opportunity to work closely with the RIBA and to develop a common rule in this area which will benefit students, schools of architecture and ultimately, the profession.”