Undergraduate

BA (Hons) Architecture

Architecture is a creative and exciting profession combining art, philosophy, science, technology and ecology to solve the problems of our built environment. Homes, offices, art galleries, airports, stadia and the building in which you’re reading this have all been designed by architects.

BA (Hons) Architecture aims to prepare you for a position in the field of architecture and its allied professions.

Architecture is much more than simply providing good building design. This course will give you an understanding of both the practical and theoretical aspects of architecture. You will cover in depth the design of buildings, the technical aspects of construction and how architecture relates to people and how they live.

You will also discover how to effectively communicate your architectural ideas through written and spoken briefs, reports, drawings, models and CAD.

Level 1

Introduces architectural design processes. You will cover a range of key topics including: the history and theory of architecture; understanding structures and materials; design skills and methodologies; using computer technologies and CAD; and 2D and 3D communication and representation.

Level 2

Focuses on the application of skills acquired in your first year.

You will undertake increasingly challenging projects and specialist briefs that introduce the commercial and wider cultural aspects of architecture.

Curriculum areas may include: urban environment design and its impact; reinterpreting and reworking existing buildings; introducing new builds; understanding market factors; advanced computation and regulatory frameworks.

Level 3

Prepares you for work in an architectural practice.

You will build on the practical and theoretical elements that you mastered in your previous learning, through self-initiated projects and specialist guidance from your tutors. You will also be encouraged to enter national and international design competitions and create a professional portfolio.

In addition, each Level contains units in Contextual Studies, Enterprise and Entrepreneurship, and Personal and Professional Development to give you a rounded education that prepares you for professional life.

Assessment

You will be assessed through the completion of practical and written work including essays, analysis, individual and group presentations, critical self and peer-evaluation, practical and technical tests, and the completion of individual and team projects.

Learning and Support

You will learn through a mixture of problem-based learning, design studio tutoring and traditional teaching.

Our innovative approach to learning puts architecture into a wider professional context that places technology and the environment alongside client needs. You will be guided by professionally qualified and experienced teaching staff and visiting speakers from industry.

Career Opportunities

As an architect, you will be involved in the design of quality environments in which people live, work and relax.

There are many different architectural specialities and you could find yourself involved in urban design, environmental research, building conservation, heritage matters or community development.

To find out more on jobs in this field visit I can.

Progression

Successful completion of this course can lead to postgraduate degrees in MA Architecture and MA Environment Design.

Download the full course programme specifications (PDF).

• • Pre-degree

  • Undergraduate

  • Postgraduate

  • International students

  • Short courses

  • Prospectus

  • Course directory

  • Subject areas

  • Student support

  • Teachers and Careers Advisers

  • Fees & Finance

  • Accommodation

  • Case studies