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RIBA Validation

Validating schools of architecture

Through validation, the RIBA identifies courses and examinations which achieve the standards needed to prepare students for the professional practice of architecture.

RIBA Validation

The RIBA validates programmes at over 50 schools of architecture and other course providers in the UK. We have a history of promoting high quality and innovative architectural education throughout the world.

This year marks 100 years since RIBA validated its first architecture course at the University of Liverpool in 1924.

Through validation, the RIBA identifies courses and examinations which achieve the standards necessary to prepare students for professional practice.

RIBA cannot give validation to individual students or professionals and only validates programmes of architecture/examinations run by education providers (such as universities) or examining bodies. To gain a RIBA validated qualification, you need to study a RIBA validated course.

In the UK, RIBA is not the licensing or registration body; that function is performed by the Architects Registration Board (ARB). You should contact ARB directly for further information. If you’re an Architect registered and practising outside the UK and EU, you can apply for RIBA Chartered Membership through MEAP. This is a process to gain international Chartered Membership status only.

Below is a list of RIBA Validated UK courses. You can download a PDF of all schools and courses at the bottom of the page. 

Validation procedures for courses and schools

Find out about the procedure for seeking validation for an existing or proposed programme of architecture, and how to become a RIBA Validated school of architecture or course provider.

Contact us

For enquiries regarding validation, please contact:

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