Architecture, building and planning

Architects, building conservationists and environmental designers play a vital role in the construction industry. They work to make sure buildings are structurally viable, environmentally friendly and aesthetically appropriate to the landscape and environment.

Postgraduate study options

Postgraduate study can be limited in these career areas. With environmental design and building conservation it is often a case of specialising after completing a built environment degree. There are plenty of courses specifically directed at these areas, some of which are accredited by professional bodies, such as the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors.

Alternatively, you could specialise in an area such as architecture. However, there is no postgraduate option for qualifying as an architect - to achieve professional status you'll have to take a seven-year course, as prescribed by the Architecture Registrations Board (ARB) and accredited by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA).