Architecture Professional Practice
(RIBA Part III)
Postgraduate Diploma at the University of Westminster — the final stage of architectural education leading to ARB registration and RIBA chartered membership.
Fee
£3,720
per year (UK & International)
Credits
120
credits total
Practices
200+
in our network
Tutors
30+
professional tutors
Course Overview
The Architecture Postgraduate Diploma Professional Practice (RIBA Part III) at Westminster is one of the largest Part 3 courses in the UK. It represents the final stage of architectural education, culminating a minimum of seven years of academic and professional development.
The course is prescribed by the Architects Registration Board (ARB) and validated by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), providing exemption from the RIBA Part 3 examination. Successful completion leads to eligibility for ARB registration and RIBA chartered membership.
Designed to be undertaken during the second period of mandatory practical training after completing Part 2, the course is delivered part-time in the evenings, allowing students to continue working in practice while studying.
Course Modules
Architectural Practice Management
20 creditsFocuses on the architect's role in commissioning, procurement, and management of architectural projects. Covers organisational and financial management, marketing, briefing, the RIBA Plan of Work, and the professional's role in the construction team.
English Law, Regulations, Construction Procurement and Contracts
20 creditsInvestigates principles of English Law as they apply to design and construction, relevant statutory regulations, various forms of construction contracts (JCT, NEC), and methods for dispute resolution including adjudication and arbitration.
Professional Case Study
60 creditsA substantial work-based module requiring students to select an architectural project and demonstrate their knowledge through critical analysis and evaluation. Covers professional, legal, and organisational aspects, developing analytical skills and the ability to present complex data and make professional judgments.
Professional Development and Experience
20 creditsComprises the Professional Experience and Development Record (PEDR), a professional CV, a Critical Self-Appraisal, and the Oral Examination (Viva Voce). Enables students to assess their practical experience and demonstrate professional judgment.
Course Delivery
Lectures
Delivered online, allowing attendance from workplace or home. All lectures are recorded for flexible access and revision.
Workshops
Supplementary on-campus workshops at Marylebone facilitate interaction with peers and the academic team.
Tutoring
Tutorial guidance from 30+ professional tutors for case study and professional development work.
Flexibility
Coursework submission can be self-deferred by 6 or 12 months for work-based reasons, allowing flexibility around employment.
Assessment Timeline
Entry Requirements
- RIBA Parts 1 and 2 from a recognised school of architecture, or successful completion of ARB assessment for Parts 1 and 2
- Currently undertaking second period of mandatory practical experience
- One academic reference and one professional reference
Career Outcomes
Successful completion leads to eligibility for ARB registration and RIBA chartered membership. Westminster Part 3 graduates have gone on to secure senior positions and associate/director roles in architectural practice, establish their own architectural practices, work internationally across diverse markets, specialise in construction law and contract administration, and pursue further academic study (MPhil/PhD).