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Architecture and planning 2026 personal statement guide

If you’re applying for architecture and planning, outline your reasons for wanting to study the course. The built environment encompasses lots of courses and professions, so be as specific as possible about your interests and enthusiasms.

Before you apply

Consider all the options available to you before you begin your application. Find out what places are really like, attend events, research industries, and make sure you're clear on what you want to do before you proceed.

Building and construction 2026 personal statement guide

The built environment encompasses lots of courses and professions, so outline your reasons for wanting to study the particular building and construction course you’re applying for, and what fascinates you about buildings and how they’re made.

Can I change my mind?

Reflecting on your choices and think you would like to change your mind? Follow our tips on how to navigate the right path for you.

Career goals: Doctor

Long hours, intense studying, and the small case of confronting illness and death each day. No wonder medicine has a competitive and demanding reputation.

Career goals: Lawyer

Oxford graduate Anke takes the stand to testify on what the life of a lawyer is really like.

Career goals: Mechanical design engineer

Design engineer Adam chose to take an apprenticeship over university. Here he explains his role, how he juggled work with studying and why he's glad he took the apprenticeship path.

Career goals: Nurse

Nurse Ewout talks switching paths to enter nursing, the different opportunities it can afford you, the profession's changing image, and more.

Career goals: Pilot

Rosanna shares the highs and lows of being a commercial pilot, her route to qualifying, plus some words of encouragement for young girls who want to reach for the sky.

Career Goals: Playwright/Theatre director

How do you turn a passion for words into a career? London playwright and theatre director Lynette did just that, after finding inspiration from one author while studying English at university.

Case studies: apprenticeships

Discover real-life stories from current apprentices, including how they landed the role and what day-to-day life as an apprentice is like.

Changing or leaving your course

If you decide you no longer want to study, or you’d like to transfer to a new university or course, there’s a lot to consider.