Welcome to the ARC-ex School of Architecture.

Welcome to ARC-ex, a leading privately funded School of Architecture based in Belfast, dedicated exclusively to delivering the Architecture Part 3 qualification. Fully prescribed by the Architects Registration Board (ARB) in the UK, ARC-ex offers an accredited pathway for those seeking to complete their Part 3 in Architecture and gain full professional registration. One of our key strengths is that the course is taught and delivered completely online, empowering students from Belfast, the UK, and around the world to achieve this critical qualification without needing to relocate.

 

Our Architecture Part 3 course provides the essential training and insights required for candidates to become registered architects. Designed with flexibility in mind, our online format accommodates the schedules of working professionals and international students alike, allowing you to learn at your own pace and from any location.

The ARC-ex Part 3 programme delivers a rigorous curriculum that covers all areas required for ARB qualification, including professional conduct, legal responsibilities, contract administration, and practice management. Led by experienced architects and educators, our programme combines real-world insights with the academic rigor necessary to excel in the Architecture Part 3 examination. At ARC-ex, we provide personalised support, guiding students through every step of their learning journey and preparing them to enter the profession with confidence and skill.

Successful candidates who register with ARB may then apply for chartership with esteemed institutions such as RIBA, RSAW, RIAI, RSUA, and RIAS, further enhancing their professional credentials and career prospects.

Based in Belfast but accessible globally, ARC-ex offers the ideal solution for those seeking a flexible yet fully accredited Part 3 programme. Our students benefit from engaging in a curriculum that aligns with current industry standards and the ARB’s requirements, positioning them to excel both in the exam and in their future professional practice.

Join the next generation of architects who have chosen ARC-ex for their Part 3 qualification. With ARB accreditation, an expert-led online format, and a steadfast commitment to quality, ARC-ex provides an unparalleled pathway to achieving your Part 3 in Architecture, wherever you are in the world. Discover how ARC-ex can support you in becoming a fully qualified architect through our accessible, expertly crafted, and ARB-prescribed Part 3 programme.

        

TESTIMONIALS

“ARC-ex was very well organised and had a strong line-up of lecturers. The course was clearly structured and well run, but what really made it work was Neil’s enthusiasm and commitment. He was consistently engaged, responsive, and clearly cared about getting everyone through what is a demanding process.

Being able to complete the course online was a real game-changer for me, particularly as someone returning later in my career to complete Part 3. The online format worked far better than I expected and created a genuinely positive, collegiate learning environment. Ideas were shared and properly discussed between students, with a strong sense of peer support alongside the formal teaching.

Neil was also incredibly helpful in dealing with registration and administrative issues, and always clear and pragmatic in his guidance.

Overall, the combination of good teaching, a committed and engaged group of students, and Neil’s input made ARC-ex a very positive and effective route through Part 3, and one I’d readily recommend.”

Paul Moore  |  Director | McCann Moore Architects

TESTIMONIALS

“ To all the Part II architects out there that have been working in the industry for many years, ever think – ‘must get round to finally doing the part III and getting RIBA/ARB registered’.

Of course you do, you could be post part II 3, 4 years or possibly decades like me with THAT recurring thought in the back of your mind. Work gets in the way.

 Well thanks to Neil Mathews and ARC-ex it finally became possible for me to do it within my busy working life. The course is well structured and prepares you well for the examinations and interview. Starting early on your case study and certificated of professional experience is also the key to success. Cannot recommend the guys highly enough. Always on hand to help and encourage you through all aspects of the requirements. Lecture series is hugely informative too. ”

Stephen Cheah RIB, RSUA, ARB. |  Director | Cheah Rothe Ltd.

TESTIMONIALS

“With a busy lifestyle and a demanding career, the ARCex Part III examination allows a degree of flexibility not associated with an academic institution. I found the smaller class much more appealing than a lecture theatre or 50+ students that may be found on other courses. It is a much more personal experience, and I found it much easier to ask questions and discuss various aspects of architecture in an open way, which greatly aided my learning and understanding of the course material.

I found Neil and Lawrence to be very welcoming, knowledgable, approachable and supportive throughout the entire process. Their advice and guidance was invaluable. The course includes a series of lectures with professionals actively involved in their respective fields, and are therefore perfectly suited to provide the most relevant information. With some hard work and the support and guidance of ARC-ex, I found the entire Part III experience enjoyable – even the final interview. I would highly recommend obtaining the Final Examination with ARCex.

David Kernohan Bsc (Hons), Dip. Arch, ARB. 

TESTIMONIALS

“The ARCex course had a well-structured series of lecture days, introducing a breadth of topics, each presented by excellent and engaging speakers. The small classes allowed for intimate group discussions and informal workshops, giving opportunity to discuss topics in depth, with the expert speakers. The tasks given after each lecture day helped structure my personal learning and development to cover all the criteria required for the professional exam. Overall, the course was well organised and thoughtfully structured to ensure that I was well prepared and confident before sitting the exam.”

Alice Nickell

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