The Certificate in Architectural Hardware (CiAH) provides a thorough grounding in products, standards and relevant best practice, setting the industry standard for building knowledge in architectural ironmongery.

It provides a logical next step for those completing the Foundation qualification, but is equally suited as a starting point for those in the industry looking to develop their skills and career.

The CiAH is a self-led online course comprising 28 separate modules which together cover everything an architectural ironmonger is required to know.

The course is delivered in two stages, which may be taken in one year or two.

Subjects covered include:

  • Doors and door furniture
  • Locks
  • Closing devices
  • Signage
  • Electric hardware and access control
  • Scheduling
  • Standards and regulation

Why study this course?

The benefits of completing this course include:

  • Learn to make informed decisions when working with particular products and materials.
  • Develop a broad understanding of relevant best practices and industry standards.
  • Become eligible to study a GAI diploma course (and then progress via continuing professional development to GAI Registered Professional status).
  • The top three CiAH learners are invited to the annual GAI Education Awards and presented with a cash prize.

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To speak to one of our team about the CiAH, or about GAI learning for you or your team, please email [email protected], or submit this form

Who is it for?

The CiAH the perfect next step for learners who have completed the Foundation in Hardware course and want to continue to expand their knowledge.

It is also an ideal starting point for a range of architectural ironmongery and construction sector professionals – either those just starting out in the industry, or those with more experience but looking to expand their knowledge of architectural ironmongery in particular.

Candidates typically work at: 

  • Architectural ironmongers 
  • Architectural ironmongery manufacturers 
  • Door manufacturers  
  • Architectural ironmongery distributors 
  • Locksmiths 
  • Builders’ merchants 
  • Sales or trade counters

“The Certificate in Architectural Hardware is a truly fantastic course for anyone that works in the Architectural Ironmongery Industry. Following completion, my product knowledge and understanding of the industry has grown immensely. The course material and the support from the tutors is brilliant, so it makes for a really enjoyable time working through the blocks. I am reaping the rewards in work life and it has set me up perfectly to start my Diploma! I would recommend it to anyone!”

Andy Hullock, Product Support Manager – Zoo Architectural Hardware.

Course & Enrolment Details

  • A self-led online course comprising a total of 28 modules in 2 Stages.
  • Choose to complete the course (Stage 1 and 2) in two years, or in a single year (Fast Track).
  • Enrolment opens 1 July for academic year September to June. 
  • Study via the GAI Learning Hub, with helpful explanations, animations and video clips in every module, designed to engage learners in easily digestible chunks of material 
  • Knowledge checks to allow you to track your progress throughout the course.
  • Coursework worth 30% towards your final examination.
  • In-person examination at a PearsonVue test centre near you.
  • Download the prospectus for full details, including terms and conditions

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Click below to choose your next step towards the Certificate in Architectural Hardware.

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