In Nigeria there is only one Architect registration body, it is called Architects Registration Council of Nigeria (ARCON). Becoming an Architect in Nigeria is not an easy task; it is both challenging and demanding. The journey into this field starts as early as the Senior Secondary education level. This pathway demands creativity and endurance.
It requires a passion for both art and science; the ability to understand and interpret technical knowledge; the ability to create technical details and drawings of an artistic piece. As a student in the Senior Secondary School, it is important to stick to the science class or go to a technical school, because Universities responsible for giving degrees in architecture require mainly science subjects from Secondary School Graduates (JAMB subject combination for Architecture https://www.legit.ng/1158548-jamb-subject-combination-architecture.html).
After the secondary school stage, one has to apply for Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination and select a University for a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture. It is generally a four (4) to six (6) years program.
With a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture from an ARCON accredited University (list of ARCON accredited Universities in Nigeria. https://arconigeria.org.ng/view-accredited-institutions) one can register for a two (2) years Master’s Degree program. With a Master’s Degree in Architecture and a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) certificate (a one (1) year program that can be done before or after the Master’s Degree program), one can apply to ARCON for the professional practice examination. This application requires a two (2) years pupilage under a registered Architect. In total it takes at least nine (9) years to become an Architect after leaving secondary school.
Architecture is a professional course just like Law and Medicine, and as such, it demands a similar level of determination. Studying architecture is profitable and demanding. It is important to remain focused and open to learning new things.