The opening of new facilities for an architecture course at Wolverhampton University (RIBAJ January 2021, p20-25) presents the RIBA with a real dilemma. If the course succeeds in its mission to integrate architecture with other professions engaged in the built environment, how can its graduates succeed in retaining their professional autonomy? Of the 42 staff listed on the college website, only five are shown to have a background in architecture. The rest cover a very wide range of allied professions though there are some notable omissions. In our profession there has been a growing trend towards integrated project management leaving several aspects to specialists, but how can architects hold on to the integrity of building design and its cultural qualities under these circumstances? So far the RIBA is reported to have awarded the course only part 1 recognition and it seems to be hesitating about part 2, quite understandably. Our profession has increasingly distanced itself from commercial domination by getting back towards better serving the community but a wide ranging debate seems to be needed on how this is to be managed. Otherwise the pandemic might allow radical change to happen covertly.
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