Course Overview

BA Architecture is an innovative collaboration between The University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University. The course, which is appraised by the Architects Registration Board (ARB) and the Royal Institute for British Architects (RIBA), allows you to take the first step to becoming an architect.

You will benefit from the expertise of specialist practice and research-active lecturers, who provide a rich and stimulating environment in which to study architecture.

What's more, you will be inspired by the world-famous city of Manchester - the industrial revolution birthplace turned 21st century metropolis - and its vibrant, contemporary and innovative architecture scene.

Manchester is a showcase for recent regeneration and historic context, much of which has been designed with the involvement of our current students and graduates.

The city recognises the value of high-quality design, together with innovative and pragmatic approaches to resolving practical issues.

Special Features

Benefit from the facilities and expertise of two universities

Architecture sits within the Manchester School of Architecture (MSA) - a unique collaboration between The University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU).

This allows you to use the workshops and studios, study spaces and students' unions across both campuses.

Experience local fieldtrips

Gain a real-world understanding of your subject normally through local fieldwork.

Gain accreditation

By completing this course, you will gain exemption from the ARB and RIBA Part 1 professional qualifications, contributing to you becoming a fully qualified architect in the future.

Qualifying as an architect normally requires a combination of five years of study at university and a minimum of two years of practical experience before completing a final examination.

Many graduates study our Master of Architecture (MArch) course, which is recognised as a Part 2 qualification by the Architects Registration Board (ARB) and the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA).

Join the UK's largest Architecture student society

Manchester Student Society of Architecture (MSSA) is the largest of its kind in the UK, giving you the opportunity to build valuable relationships with other architects, attend guest talks and enjoy plenty of social activities throughout the year.

What will you study?

Year 1

In year 1 you will start with a series of small projects where you will accumulate knowledge about the body in space and the design of small enclosures for specific activities. More details

Year 2

In Year 2, you will build upon your design knowledge through a series of interrelated projects that develop the context for architecture as a social and cultural act as well as one that is concerned with technology. More details

Year 3

In Year 3, you will be guided to direct your own learning and, in an atelier-based system, define your own projects which are underpinned by the application of history and theory into your design studio activities. More details

Coursework and Assessment

During the course, you are likely to be required to engage in collaborative projects, group work activities and to give presentations to your peers/tutors.

Some or all of this work may be formally assessed, depending on the course you are studying.

All assessments are based on coursework, there are no exams.

Career Opportunities

We're one of the most targeted universities by the nation's top employers.

BA Architecture graduates are highly valued for their confidence and creativity, and benefit from our strong links with national and international architectural practices. They have gone on to successful careers in areas including:

architecture;
advertising;
estate management;
project management;
real estate;
urban design;
web design.

Top employers of our BA Architecture graduates include Aedas, AR, Atkins, BDP, BroadwayMalyan, Foster + Partners, Hawkins\Brown, and Sheppard Robson.

Qualifying as an architect normally requires a combination of five years study at university and a minimum of two years practical experience before completing a final examination.

Find out more about career destinations of our Architecture graduates by reading our alumni profiles .

The University has its own dedicated Careers Service that you would have full access to as a student and for two years after you graduate.

At Manchester you will have access to a number of opportunities to help boost your employability .

Degree Award

As a student at Manchester School of Architecture (MSA), you will study a degree that is delivered jointly by The University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University.

You will, therefore, benefit from the facilities and resources of both institutions such as libraries, computer suites, making and media workshops, and much more.

Upon successful completion of your studies, you will receive one degree certificate.

The joint award certificate includes each institution's crest and awarding body title.