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Professional Diploma (Architecture) PT

ProfDip (NFQ Level 9)

This course is available through the following application route(s)

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The January intake for this programme is now full, applications will open again in the Spring of 2025

The Professional Diploma (Architecture) is the final professional examination for architectural graduates leading to entry to the Register for Architects in Ireland. The programme is offered on a part-time flexible basis over two trimesters, at the time that an architectural graduate is undertaking minimum 24 months professional practical experience under supervision. Graduates arrange their own placements in architectural practice, which may be in Ireland or abroad, and the programme is structured to provide a context and support to graduates during their professional training.

The programme is delivered by UCD academic staff, practicing architects and other professionals with expertise in critical subject areas.  Lecture recordings, learning material and readings will be available to students for flexible learning, supported by group tutorials. 

Join the Mailing List for information about the Professional Diploma (Architecture) at:
https://goo.gl/forms/AWO01Na6mZ0rECxS2

  • Appreciate and understand the historical, social, environmental, legislative and economic context in which the built environment is procured, and show critical awareness of current problems/ new insights.
  • Communicate with clients, professionals, industry and community stakeholders, organise projects and lead teams, including an ability to provide disinterested advice and to produce professional reports and surveys.
  • Demonstrate adequate knowledge of the industries, organisations, regulations and procedures involved in translating design concepts into buildings.
  • Demonstrate the knowledge, skills, competence and professionalism required for independent practice as an architect in Ireland.
  • Research a broad range of professional, legal, regulatory and contractual topics using a range of research skills and have an ability to acquire and apply the relevant ‘body of knowledge’ in the profession of architecture.
  • Self-evaluate, to identify personal and professional limitations and to take responsibility for continuing academic/ professional development.
  • Synthesize information, to formulate professional advice, and to apply knowledge to specific problems often in unpredictable and ill-defined contexts.

About This Course

Below is a list of all modules offered for this degree in the current academic year. Click on the module to discover what you will learn in the module, how you will learn and assessment feedback profile amongst other information.

Incoming Stage 1 undergraduates can usually select an Elective in the Spring Trimester. Most continuing undergraduate students can select up to two Elective modules (10 Credits) per stage. There is also the possibility to take up to 10 extra Elective credits.

Module Type Module   Trimester Credits
Stage 1 Options - A) Min 0 of:
The Professional Diploma Architecture is a 30-credit part-time Level 9 programme. This programme can be completed over one or two years (up to four trimesters). To be eligible for the award of this Professional Diploma, students must complete the required 30 credits within the two-year registration period. Student MUST select the SPRING Trimester offerings of the modules ARCT40090, ARCT40130 and ARCT40140, and the AUTUMN Trimester offerings of the modules ARCT40100 and ARCT40110 must be taken in the Autumn Trimester. In case of any query regarding your registration please contact: professionalpractice@ucd.ie
ARCT40100 Case Study Autumn and Spring (separate)  10
Stage 1 Options - A) Min 0 of:
The Professional Diploma Architecture is a 30-credit part-time Level 9 programme. This programme can be completed over one or two years (up to four trimesters). To be eligible for the award of this Professional Diploma, students must complete the required 30 credits within the two-year registration period. Student MUST select the SPRING Trimester offerings of the modules ARCT40090, ARCT40130 and ARCT40140, and the AUTUMN Trimester offerings of the modules ARCT40100 and ARCT40110 must be taken in the Autumn Trimester. In case of any query regarding your registration please contact: professionalpractice@ucd.ie
ARCT40110 Practical Experience Autumn and Spring (separate)  5
Stage 1 Options - A) Min 0 of:
The Professional Diploma Architecture is a 30-credit part-time Level 9 programme. This programme can be completed over one or two years (up to four trimesters). To be eligible for the award of this Professional Diploma, students must complete the required 30 credits within the two-year registration period. Student MUST select the SPRING Trimester offerings of the modules ARCT40090, ARCT40130 and ARCT40140, and the AUTUMN Trimester offerings of the modules ARCT40100 and ARCT40110 must be taken in the Autumn Trimester. In case of any query regarding your registration please contact: professionalpractice@ucd.ie
ARCT40090 Procurement & Contracts Spring  5
Stage 1 Options - A) Min 0 of:
The Professional Diploma Architecture is a 30-credit part-time Level 9 programme. This programme can be completed over one or two years (up to four trimesters). To be eligible for the award of this Professional Diploma, students must complete the required 30 credits within the two-year registration period. Student MUST select the SPRING Trimester offerings of the modules ARCT40090, ARCT40130 and ARCT40140, and the AUTUMN Trimester offerings of the modules ARCT40100 and ARCT40110 must be taken in the Autumn Trimester. In case of any query regarding your registration please contact: professionalpractice@ucd.ie
ARCT40130 Architectural Practice Spring  5
Stage 1 Options - A) Min 0 of:
The Professional Diploma Architecture is a 30-credit part-time Level 9 programme. This programme can be completed over one or two years (up to four trimesters). To be eligible for the award of this Professional Diploma, students must complete the required 30 credits within the two-year registration period. Student MUST select the SPRING Trimester offerings of the modules ARCT40090, ARCT40130 and ARCT40140, and the AUTUMN Trimester offerings of the modules ARCT40100 and ARCT40110 must be taken in the Autumn Trimester. In case of any query regarding your registration please contact: professionalpractice@ucd.ie
ARCT40140 Construction Legislation Spring  5

The Professional Diploma (Architecture) is accredited by the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI) as Registration Body (Ireland) and Competent Authority (European Union) for direct admission to the ‘Register for Architects’ in Ireland.



 

ProfDip Architecture (T411) Part Time
EU/NONEU    fee per credit - € 173.30

***Fees are subject to change

This course is only available to graduates of B.Arch/ M.Arch or equivalent approved 5-year qualification in architecture. Further information is available here

You may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), as UCD recognises formal, informal, and/or experiential learning. RPL may be awarded to gain Admission and/or credit exemptions on a programme. Please visit the UCD Registry RPL web page for further information. Any exceptions are also listed on this webpage.

Part Time option suitable for:

Domestic(EEA) applicants: Yes
International (Non EEA) applicants: No


The January intake for this programme is now full, applications will open Spring 2025.


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General application route(s) for Irish/UK/EU applicants* for International (non-EU) applicants* to Professional Diploma (Architecture) PT:

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T411
Professional Diploma (Architecture) PT
Professional Diploma (Architecture)

Part-Time
Commencing January 2025
Graduate Taught
Not available to International applicantsApply
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