Architecture students are required to undertake a minimum of two years professional experience in architectural practice, before becoming eligible to complete their qualification by taking a recognised examination in Professional Practice and Management (Part 3):
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The first period of experience normally takes place between the degree and diploma stages of the academic programme and is known as Stage 1 Professional Experience or Year Out
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The second period should take place after the end of the diploma/Part 2 and is known as Stage 2 Professional Experience or Post Part 2 Experience
The RIBA Examination in Professional Practice and Management (Part 3) assesses applied professional knowledge, skill and judgement; and students' professional experience is a vital element which is considered very carefully at this stage by professional examiners|. The Part 3 is the final qualifying examination for architects and entitles successful candidates to UK architects registration with the Architect Registration Board (ARB|), to use the title 'architect' and to join the RIBA as a Chartered Member|.
The RIBA electronic Professional Experience and Development Resource| contains a wealth of information on professional experience and includes guides for students, professional studies advisors and employers. It also features an area where students can keep an online record of their experience in the form of quarterly record sheets.
Download a PDF of the Part 3 Description and Regulations.