How To Get Work Experience For Architecture

Thinking about studying architecture? Worried about the pressure of getting work experience? Finding architecture work experience might seem impossible. But, you don't need family connections or a fancy network to land these opportunities.

This guide shows you how to get work experience for architecture. From traditional placements to creative alternatives, we've got you covered.

Ready to lay the foundations for your architecture career? Let's dive in.

Key Takeaways

• Getting work experience in architecture might seem daunting. However, there are opportunities out there, if you know where to look. You don't need industry connections to get started. Many architects are happy to help enthusiastic students.

• Architecture work experience comes in many forms, from shadowing professionals to volunteering on community projects. 

• The key is starting your search early. Be persistent and make the most of every opportunity.

Why Work Experience Matters in Architecture

While you don’t strictly need work experience to get on an architecture course, it can definitely put you ahead of the field.

University admissions and apprenticeship programmes expect you to show genuine interest in architecture beyond the classroom. UCAS has changed the format of the personal statement (opens in a new tab). One of the new questions you now have to answer is all about how you’ve prepared for your course outside of the classroom. This is where work experience is key.

Your portfolio will be far stronger with real-world examples and insights. Forget about what you’ve seen in films and magazines. Architecture admissions officers want to see that you understand what architects actually do day-to-day.

Work experience helps you develop transferable skills that'll serve you throughout your career. You'll pick up things that can’t be taught from text books, like: 

• Design thinking

• Teamwork abilities

• Problem-solving techniques 

Most importantly, you'll discover whether architecture is right for you. The profession involves much more than just drawing beautiful buildings!

Types of Architecture Work Experience You Can Pursue

Placements in Architectural Practices

This is the gold standard of architecture work experience. You'll:

• Shadow qualified architects

• Observe client meetings

• Support admin or design tasks.

Most architectural practices are small to medium-sized firms. They are often keen to help local students. You might help with simple CAD work, model making, or research for projects.

Contact local firms directly by email or phone. The Architect Directory (opens in a new tab) lists registered practices in your area. This makes it easier to find opportunities. Don't just target the biggest, most famous practices. Smaller firms often have more time to mentor students and give you hands-on experience. 

Alina Enache, architect and co-founder of Lamp Genius (opens in a new tab), believes students can go one step further to secure work experience. She says: “Write a letter of intent as part of your application where you show the prospective employer you’ve done your research on their company.” Our handy guide to writing the perfect cover letter could help you go the extra mile.

Construction and Building Site Experience

Understanding the practical side of architecture is incredibly valuable. Many architects spend a lot of time on construction sites as they watch their designs come to life.

You might:

• Observe site visits

• Learn about surveying techniques

• Gain awareness of health and safety requirements 

• Understand how designs translate into real buildings

Contact local construction companies, building surveyors, or quantity surveyors. They often welcome students who are genuinely interested in the building process.

Safety training will be needed for any site visits, but many companies provide this as part of their work experience programmes.

Urban Planning and Local Government

Architecture doesn't happen in isolation. It's shaped by planning policies and community needs. Local councils and planning departments offer fascinating insights into how architecture serves society.

You'll learn how policy and planning regulations influence architectural design. This experience is valuable if you're interested in sustainable design or community architecture. Contact your local council's planning department or housing team. Many have structured work experience programmes for students interested in the built environment. 

Related Design and Creative Experience

It’s ok to think outside the box a little. Don’t overlook creative experiences in related fields. Interior design studios, landscape architecture practices, and even graphic design agencies develop skills that transfer brilliantly to architecture.

These placements help you:

• Build design thinking skills

• Understand client relationships

• Explore different aspects of the creative process.

Many students find these opportunities less competitive than traditional architectural placements. This makes them excellent starting points for building experience. And, the skills you develop will strengthen your architecture applications significantly.

How To Apply for Architecture Work Experience

• Research local firms thoroughly. Visit their websites, understand their projects, and mention specific work that interests you in your application.

• Prepare a short CV highlighting any relevant skills. Even if they're from school projects or part-time jobs, they could be transferable. Include examples of creative work, problem-solving, or teamwork experiences.

• Write a personal covering letter. Explain why you're interested in architecture and what you hope to learn from the experience. Keep it genuine and enthusiastic rather than formal.

• Ask school or college tutors. They might have existing connections with local practices. Alumni networks can also provide valuable introductions to professionals in the field.

• Always follow up. If you don’t hear back immediately, don’t worry. Many practices are busy. A courteous reminder often helps your application get noticed.

• Be flexible with timing and duration. Even a few days of experience can provide valuable insights and strengthen your applications.

Alternatives if You Can't Find Formal Placements

Getting work experience for architecture can be challenging. But don’t worry. There are brilliant alternatives to traditional placements that universities and employers value just as highly.

• Springpod (opens in a new tab) offers virtual work experience in architectural design. You’ll learn about urban planning and restoration. And, at the end of the course, you can download a portfolio of your work.

• RIBA Skill Up Workshops (opens in a new tab) are for 15-18 year olds keen to enter the profession. These run for 1-5 days, and are a great way to make connections and learn about the built environment.

• Volunteering with community design projects shows your commitment to architecture's social purpose. Many heritage organisations welcome enthusiastic volunteers to help with building surveys.

• Build your own portfolio through independent design projects. Redesigning your school or local community centre in your area demonstrates architectural thinking.

Making the Most of Architecture Work Experience

Securing the work experience is the first hurdle to get over. Next, you need to make sure you get the most out of it. Follow these five steps:

1. Keep a detailed reflective journal throughout your experience. Record new skills learned, interesting conversations, and insights about the profession.

2. Ask loads of questions. Be curious. Most architects love sharing their expertise with enthusiastic students. Ryan Wenham, chartered architect, interior designer and founder of Larsen Architecture (opens in a new tab), agrees. He says: “To share your lifestyle and career choices with someone who has that whole journey ahead of them is a privilege - watching them transform in just a few days, growing in confidence and sharing the passion for what you do.” Ask questions about:

   • Design software

   • Project processes

   • Career progression

   • What the job is like day-to-day

   • Architecture specialisms

3. Request permission to take photographs or make sketches for your portfolio. Visual records of your experience provide powerful evidence for university applications.

4. Connect your experience to your future goals in personal statements. Admissions tutors want to see how work experience has influenced your career aspirations.

5. Network professionally. The architects you meet often become valuable mentors throughout your studies and career. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I Need Architecture Work Experience to Apply for University?

While not always mandatory, work experience significantly strengthens your application. Most competitive UCAS architecture courses (opens in a new tab) expect evidence of genuine engagement with the profession. 

But remember, quality matters more than quantity. A few days of meaningful experience with good reflection can be more valuable than weeks of superficial placement.

Alternative experiences like design competitions, virtual programmes, or creative projects can demonstrate architectural thinking just as effectively as traditional placements.

How Can I Get Work Experience If I Don't Know Any Architects?

Most architects entered the profession without family connections. Cold-calling and emailing local practices is completely normal and often successful.

Your school careers service, local libraries, and community centres often have connections with local professionals who support student development.

When Should I Apply for Work Experience Placements?

Alina Epache suggests: “Students should make sure they are on the right career path as early as possible, and what better way of doing that than through work experience in an architecture office?” Start your search at least 8-10 weeks before you want to begin the placement. And, try to time your placement strategically. Many practices prefer students during quieter periods rather than their busiest times. 

You should aim to complete work experience before your UCAS applications in Year 13. This gives you time to reflect on the experience in your personal statement. Need help to write yours? Our comprehensive UCAS Personal Statement Guide is sure to help.

Your Blueprint for Success

Getting architecture work experience doesn't have to feel overwhelming. Remember, every successful architect started exactly where you are now: curious and motivated, but without industry connections.

The key is being proactive and open-minded about opportunities. Whether it's a week shadowing architects or a few days volunteering on community projects, every experience builds your skills and confidence.

Your architecture journey starts with that first email, phone call, or application. So what are you waiting for? It’s time to start constructing your future.

References

The Architect Directory (opens in a new tab)
UCAS - New Personal Statement for 2026 Entry (opens in a new tab)
Alina Enache - Lamp Genius (opens in a new tab)
Ryan Wenham - Larsen Architecture (opens in a new tab)
Springpod - Architectural Insight (opens in a new tab)
RIBA Skill Up Workshops (opens in a new tab)
UCAS - Architecture and Planning (opens in a new tab)