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Architectural Technician - How to get into this job

Kaihangarau hoahoa whare

Entry Requirements

To become an architectural technician you need to have a diploma in architectural draughting, architectural technology or architectural design.

Secondary Education

To enter training, most training providers require a Sixth Form Certificate or 35 credits at Level 2 in NCEA achievement standards covering mathematics, English and science.

Other useful subjects include:

art and design
graphics
computer studies and technology
communications.

Get help with choosing school subjects

Relevant courses

Architecture

Training on the job

Skills are gained on the job. Architectural technicians may also attend industry seminars and workshops, or complete qualifications while working.

Registration

Architectural technicians can apply for a professional licence under the Licensed Building Practitioners scheme. The Department of Building and Housing recognises their professional competence at three levels:

Design 1 (houses)
Design 2 (complex commercial or residential buildings)
Design 3 (large or publicly important buildings).

Applicants will be assessed on their work history, professional references and qualifications. They will have an opportunity to present their design portfolios during a face-to-face assessment with the Licensing Board.

The licensing scheme is currently voluntary, but will become mandatory in November 2010 for those who want to lead design projects.

Department of Building and Housing website - information about licensing for designers and draughtspeople/technicians (PDF - 174KB)