The Architects Registration Board (ARB) has confirmed that two universities have become new providers of ARB accredited master’s-level qualifications under its new education framework.
In April, Heriot-Watt University and Southampton Solent University had their new master’s-level architecture degrees approved by ARB’s Accreditation Committee, following a statutory consultation with relevant professional bodies.
The addition of these qualifications marks a significant milestone in ARB’s transition from the outgoing education framework to the new one, as they are the first qualifications from newly participating providers to achieve ARB accreditation under the revised framework.
Expanding the range of institutions offering ARB accredited qualifications helps ensure consistent high standards in architectural education across the UK and supports ARB’s aim to broaden access to the Register.
Image: The Spark at Southampton Solent University
The newly accredited master’s-level qualifications are:
- Master of Architecture in Architecture (ARB), Heriot-Watt University
- Master of Architecture, Southampton Solent University
The courses are set to commence in September 2026, and applications are open now.
Introduced to provide greater flexibility and innovation in how future architects are educated and come to the Architects Register, the new education framework focuses on outcomes-based standards and is designed to support a broader range of academic routes into the profession, while maintaining high standards of competence and public protection.
Alan Kershaw, Chair of the Architects Registration Board: “We are pleased to see Heriot-Watt University and Southampton Solent University now become providers of ARB-accredited master’s-level qualifications. One of ARB’s core objectives is to strengthen the education and training of future professionals, including ensuring that high-quality architectural education is accessible through a broader range of routes and providers.
“This is a small step but a significant one, and we look forward to seeing more new providers across the UK develop routes that support a diverse future profession and equip architects with the skills and competence needed for contemporary practice.”
Dr Manuel Cresciani, Director of the Master of Architecture, Heriot-Watt University: “We are very proud that the Master of Architecture programme at Heriot-Watt University has achieved accreditation under the new ARB framework. As the University did not previously offer a Master of Architecture, this marks a significant milestone for us. We also greatly appreciate the guidance and constructive engagement of the ARB Accreditation team. Their support has been invaluable in helping us develop and deliver a programme that meets the highest standards.”
Sarah Radif, Dean of Technology and Maritime Industries, Southampton Solent University: “We’re immensely proud to see our first Master of Architecture achieve ARB accreditation under the new framework. It’s an important step for us and fits strongly with our focus on delivering industry-connected, professionally relevant courses. It’s also been great to work closely with ARB throughout the process, and we’ve valued that relationship as the course has developed. Building on Solent’s strong tradition of practice-led learning, we’re excited to support new and more accessible routes into the profession.”
