The criteria, below, describe the requirements for the prescription of Part 1, Part 2 and Part 3 qualifications in architecture by the Architects Registration Board. The criteria incorporate the relevant requirements of the UK Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) and EU Directive and are considered under five thematic headings: Design, Technology and Environment, Cultural Context, Management Practice and Law, and Communication. No weightings are given to the separate themes with the exception of Design, which is to constitute at least half of assessed work at Part 1 and Part 2.

Students must also be given the opportunity to pursue related, specialised, or optional studies. The form and content of related, specialised and optional studies, are a matter for each institution, and institutions may develop programmes that, for example, link architecture with other subjects, emphasise research, develop specialisms and promote advanced degrees. However, such initiatives must not compromise the key requirement that all students receiving a qualification must meet all the criteria.

This document should be read in conjunction with ‘Prescription of Qualifications: ARB Procedures’ published by the Architects Registration Board in 2003.