To become an IT architect, there is no fixed mandatory qualification, but a combination of relevant work experience, technical knowledge, and a recognised certification such as TOGAF® Foundation gives most professionals a solid foundation. The right training depends on your current background, the direction you want to pursue, and the context in which you want to work. This article answers the most frequently asked questions about training, certifications, and experience requirements for IT architects.
What types of IT architects are there?
The term IT architect encompasses several specialisations, each with its own focus and responsibilities. The most common roles are the Enterprise Architect, the Solution Architect, and the Technical Architect. In addition, there are Business Architects, Data Architects, Security Architects, and Infrastructure Architects, depending on the organisation and sector.
An
Enterprise Architect focuses on the coherence between business strategy, processes, information, and technology at the organisational level. A
Solution Architect translates business requirements into concrete technical solutions within a project or programme. A
Technical Architect deals with the underlying technical infrastructure and system architecture.
The boundaries between these roles frequently overlap. In larger organisations the roles are more clearly defined; in smaller companies one person often fulfils multiple architecture responsibilities simultaneously. The training that fits best therefore depends strongly on which direction you want to take.
Which training courses lead to a career as an IT architect?
There is no single training course that leads directly to the role of IT architect. Most IT architects build their profile through a combination of a bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer science, business administration, or engineering, supplemented by targeted professional courses and certifications. Recognised certifications such as TOGAF Foundation and TOGAF Practitioner are in high demand within this field.
At academic level, programmes such as information science, computer science, business information management, and systems engineering provide a good theoretical foundation. However, these programmes rarely focus specifically on architecture methods or architecture practice. That gap is typically filled with professional certifications and practical experience.
In addition to TOGAF training, ITIL, PRINCE2, Zachman, and ArchiMate training are also relevant additions, depending on the specific role. For architects who want to specialise in architecture modelling, the
introduction to the TOGAF standard offers a good first orientation on the framework and its associated concepts.
Is a TOGAF certification required for IT architects?
A TOGAF certification is not legally required, but in practice it is widely requested and recognised. Many vacancies for Enterprise Architect and Solution Architect explicitly mention TOGAF Foundation or TOGAF Practitioner as a requirement or strong advantage. The certification demonstrates that you are familiar with a structured approach to Enterprise Architecture.
The TOGAF standard, developed by The Open Group, describes a methodology for setting up, executing, and managing Enterprise Architecture. The certification consists of two levels: TOGAF Foundation (level 1) and TOGAF Practitioner (level 2). Foundation tests understanding of the core concepts; Practitioner tests the ability to apply the method in practice.
For professionals who are active in or growing into an architecture role, a TOGAF certification is one of the most effective ways to structure and demonstrate their own knowledge. More answers to frequently asked questions about the certification can be found on the
TOGAF FAQ page.
What is the difference between TOGAF and ArchiMate?
TOGAF and ArchiMate are two complementary standards from The Open Group that each serve a different purpose. The TOGAF standard is a methodology for developing and managing Enterprise Architecture. The ArchiMate® modelling language is a graphical language that allows architects to draw and communicate architecture models. They complement each other, but are not alternatives to one another.
In concrete terms: the TOGAF method describes
how an organisation approaches architecture, through the Architecture Development Method (ADM) with its phases, deliverables, and artefacts. The ArchiMate modelling language describes
how that architecture is visually captured, using standardised notations for business, application, and technology.
In practice, many architects use both standards side by side. TOGAF structures the architecture process; ArchiMate makes the outcomes transparent for stakeholders. For those who want to work with both, it is worthwhile to combine TOGAF training and ArchiMate training, so that the method and modelling language reinforce each other.
How much experience do you need to become an IT architect?
Most IT architects transition from a background as a developer, systems analyst, project manager, or IT consultant, typically after five to ten years of work experience in IT. There is no fixed minimum number of years, but broad practical experience with systems, processes, and stakeholder communication is a prerequisite that is difficult to bypass.
Architecture work requires the ability to translate technical complexity into understandable frameworks for non-technical stakeholders. You develop that ability primarily by working on diverse projects, switching between levels, and taking responsibility for decisions with long-term consequences. Certifications such as TOGAF Foundation and TOGAF Practitioner accelerate that development by providing a common vocabulary and a structured approach.
Some professionals choose to obtain a TOGAF certification early in their career, as a signal and as a framework. Others wait until they have built up more practical experience. Both strategies can work, provided the theoretical knowledge is also actually applied in practice.
How to choose the right training as an IT architect
You choose the right training as an IT architect based on your current level of knowledge, your career goal, and the context in which you work. For those who want to understand the architecture method and demonstrate it, TOGAF Foundation is a logical starting point. For those who also want to apply the method independently, the combination of Foundation and Practitioner is the recommended route.
When making your choice, consider the following factors:
- Background: Do you already have experience with IT architecture, or is this a new direction? Beginners benefit from a combined Foundation and Practitioner training with guidance.
- Learning format: Classroom training, live online training, and eLearning each offer different advantages. Classroom learning offers interaction and direct feedback; eLearning offers flexibility in pace and scheduling.
- Exam preparation: Choose a training course that actively prepares you for the official exam, including practice questions and comprehension testing. A TOGAF practice test helps you gauge your level before starting the training.
- Accreditation: Check whether the training is accredited by The Open Group. Only accredited TOGAF training leads to official certification.
- Practical focus: Theory is only valuable when it connects to practice. Choose trainers who are active as architects or consultants, not only as teachers.
For those still unsure about the right entry level, the
TOGAF quick-start guide provides a practical overview of the steps towards certification.
How The Unit Company helps you become an IT architect
The Unit Company offers accredited TOGAF training for professionals who want to structure and certify their architecture knowledge. Whether you are just starting out with Enterprise Architecture or are already working as an IT architect and want to formalise your knowledge, the training offering aligns with different levels and learning formats.
- Combined Foundation and Practitioner training: A TOGAF Foundation and Practitioner training of four to five days prepares you for both official exams from The Open Group.
- In house training: For organisations that want to train multiple employees, TOGAF in house training offers the opportunity to tailor the training to the organisation’s own architecture practice and context.
- Multiple learning formats: Classroom, live online, and eLearning, so you can choose the format that suits your schedule and preference.
- Trainers from practice: All trainers combine their teaching role with active work as an architect or consultant, so theory is directly connected to practical experience.
- High pass rate: More than 98% of participants pass the official TOGAF exam on their first attempt.
Want to know which TOGAF training best suits your situation? View the full training offering or contact The Unit Company for personal advice.
Related Articles
