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The Royal Institute of British Architects (����������) has responded to the Architects Registration Board’s (ARB) , which closed today, Monday 4 November 2024.����

The consultation proposes a change in wording from ‘qualification awarding powers’ to ‘degree awarding powers’. This means ARB will require any learning provider who is applying for accreditation of a master’s level or equivalent qualification to have degree awarding powers, or a formal agreement with a body with such powers.����

If the proposed change is taken forward, those learning providers who do not hold degree awarding powers or a formal agreement with a body with such powers would immediately be disqualified from ARB accreditation.����

Background on ����������’s qualification awarding powers��

���������� is a provider of architectural education through the ���������� Part 3 and ���������� Studio programme (equivalent level to a Part 1 bachelor’s and Part 2 master’s degree). Since 1837, our Royal Charter has enshrined our ability to award our own qualifications, granting us the independence to award certificates and diplomas in our own right. Our current ���������� Studio diploma is already recognised as a master’s level equivalent qualification and our external examiners recognise this in their reports.��

We are pleased to partner with Oxford Brookes University for the management of ���������� Studio, and the terms of our arrangement mean that ARB’s proposed amendment to its Accreditation Rule 4.2 is currently satisfied.����

Responding to the consultation, Chair of ���������� Board of Trustees Jack Pringle said:��������

“ARB’s proposal will seriously hamper the development of new pathways into architecture – at a time when the need for more flexible routes to qualification have never been greater. The change risks haemorrhaging talent and threatens the future diversity of our profession.����

We support ARB moving to an outcomes-based approach to education, just as ���������� has always done, to widen access to the profession in a robust and well-regulated way.����

However, this elitist and ill-judged proposal is a barrier to learning providers that supply innovative and diverse routes to the required professional qualifications. Indeed, such alternative routes are welcomed and nurtured in the accountancy and legal professions.�� ��

���������� Studio is a lifeline for those working in practice with financial, family or other commitments that prevent them from returning to full-time or even part-time university study to become an architect. It has the flexibility to suspend studies when needed, demonstrating the value of different routes to registration.������

We continue to advocate for our members, students and schools of architecture, holding ARB to account on educational reform – and working together to deliver a robust education system for all.”����

Notes to editors:��

1. Media contact: Ruby.OShea@riba.org����
2. The Royal Institute of British Architects (����������) is a global professional membership body that serves its members and society in order to deliver better buildings and places, stronger communities and a sustainable environment. Follow for regular updates.��
3. Read ����������’s response to ARB’s Tomorrow’s Architects consultation.������