Rethinking Architectural Education: Why technical skills alone won’t secure the future of the profession

Abstract

The architecture industry demands graduates with both technical expertise and essential soft skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. This study examines UCSI University's internship program as a platform for industry-aligned experiential learning, helping students develop workplace competencies. A content analysis of internship reports and employer feedback reveals that while graduates excel technically, they often lack leadership, communication, and adaptability. To bridge this gap, this study evaluates competency-based learning models such as TVET, EXCEL and TVET. By integrating structured internships and soft skills training, the research advocates for a curriculum that ensures graduates are job-ready, resilient, and aligned with industry needs