Studio-based design activities constitute half of the course, the remaining portion being devoted to history and theory, technology, and professional and management studies. Our diverse and stimulating teaching and learning methods include studio-based tutorials, seminars and ‘crits’ in addition to lectures, workshop sessions and visits to prominent buildings, exhibitions, galleries, museums and construction sites. You will also complete a field trip in Year 2, and a work experience week in Year 3. There are opportunities to study abroad within the University’s exchange arrangements.
The structure of the course is primarily based on core modules, with one option module in Years 2 and 3. Option modules are integrated within concurrent design projects together with the knowledge, skills and abilities generated by lectures in the core modules. The course is prescribed by the Architects Registration Board (ARB) and validated by RIBA.
Studio-based teaching centres on the development of design proposals in response to project briefs. These integrate structural, constructional and environmental criteria, and historical, theoretical and social considerations; sustainability is a key element throughout the course. Skills attainment is an important facet, with an emphasis on representation (through hand and CAD drawing), communication, personal and professional skills. Design studio is taught in small groups in Year 1 and in small mixed groups of students from Years 2 and 3. Your work from the design studio forms the basis of your design portfolio that will be a testament of your achievement when applying for employment and postgraduate study.
Year Out Short Course (initial period of Practical Training Experience)
If you intend to seek registration as an architect you will need to undertake your first year of Practical Training Experience in an architect’s office (or related discipline). The Department offers a short course during this time in which staff act as Practical Training Advisers. A number of attendant lectures, office visits, seminars and discussion groups are also provided. The entry requirement is completion of a degree in Architecture with Part 1.