Architecture is seen as the overall of environments that humans will interact with. This is mostly buildings but also includes gardens, zoos, and conservatories. Architecture is not merely the planning of boring blocky buildings. Within this profession, your imagination can soar and you can design a truly unique enviroment.

To become an architect at a university you need a Grade 12 exemption. The university course is divided into two sections. The first is the theory of architecture. After completing this, you will have a Bachelor of Science (Architecture) degree. The second part is an additional two-year professional degree in Architecture. This will allow you to become an architect.

Once you have received the bachelors from university you can become a senior architectural technologist without having to do the professional degree.

If you go to a University of Technology, a senior certificate or an equivalent is required. Here you would do a three-year National Diploma in Architecture followed by a BTech degree in Architecture. After this, you can become an architectural technologist or senior technologist. After receiving your qualification, you can enter in-service training. This will last for two years.

After receiving a qualification in architecture and doing the two years of service, you must write a Professional Practise exam. After passing this exam, you can register with the South African Council for the Architectural Profession. Belonging to this organisation is a requirement to practise architecture in South Africa.

There are two places to study in Cape Town. These are CPUT and UCT. For further information, visit The South African Institute of Architects.

Sources:

• University of Cape Town
• Cape Peninsula University of Technology
• The South African Institute of Architects

Page Last Updated: 15 December 2010