How to Apply

Please apply online using the provided links.

Prospective MArch candidates are asked to submit the following information with their applications:

  • A concise letter of intent or personal statement introducing your academic interests, your interest in future dissertation subjects and an explanation of your reasons for wanting to study at the MSA.
  • A digital portfolio of work (minimum of 35 pages) should be submitted with your application, this can be sent to us using an online file transfer apps such as Dropbox or We-transfer. Your portfolio should ideally include a table of contents with information regarding the duration of each project and in which academic year/level it was completed (predominantly from your third year), some design process, design strategy, design resolution and technical strategy and resolution plus a selection of projects worked on during your year in practice.
  • At least 2 referees are required, one of which must be from a former year 3 tutor, the other a reference from your current employer. If you are applying directly from a undergraduate course then the employer reference can be substituted with an additional academic reference from your current institution.

Students who graduated with a BA from the MSA and attained a degree classification of 1st or 2:1, need not apply. Students in this category will be receiving automatic offer letters in the post to the address that is on file. All other students must formally submit an application.

Typical Entry Requirements

You will normally have at least an upper second class undergraduate UK honours degree (or international equivalent) in architecture and ARB/RIBA Part 1. Admission will normally be dependent on a successful application and possibly an interview.

A portfolio of work should be submitted with your application, this can be sent to us using online file transfer apps such as dropbox or we-transfer. It should include a table of contents with information regarding the duration of each project and in which academic year/level it was completed and a selection of projects worked on during your year in practice. We also require a concise letter of intent and two references, one of which must be from a former Year 3 tutor, the other a reference from your current employer.

Overseas applicants will require IELTS with an overall score of 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any category, or an equivalent accepted English qualification. Accepted English qualifications can be viewed here.

ARB Prescription

The process leading to the title 'architect in the UK is defined in 3 parts ‐ normally two university degrees (Parts 1 and 2) and a further award focussed on professional practice (Part 3). Students seeking entry to the MArch (Part 2) who do not hold an undergraduate qualification (Bachelors award) that is prescribed by the ARB (Architects Registration Board) at Part 1 may not be eligible for continued education at Part 3 level and the subsequent use of the title 'architect' in the UK context.

The ARB operates a process by which it can determine applications from individuals for Part 1 recognition that can occur before, during or after Part 2 study but students should be aware that enrolment onto a Part 2 programme of study does not subsume Part 1 or imply that recognition at Part 1 will necessarily be granted.

The ARB is the only body legally empowered to prescribe qualifications in the UK and particular conditions must be achieved to be eligible for consideration. Applicants are advised if necessary to seek further information from the ARB (www.arb.org.uk) if their intention is to gain exemption from all 3 parts of the education process prescribed by the ARB and be eligible to use the title 'architect' in the UK .

Tuition Fees (2023 Entry)

UK and Channel Island Students

Full-time fee: £9,250 per year. Tuition fees will remain the same for each year of your course providing you complete it in the normal timeframe (no repeat years or breaks in study).

Part-time fee: £2,312.50 per 30 credits. Tuition fees will remain the same for each year of your course providing you complete it in the normal timeframe (no repeat years or breaks in study).

EU and Non-EU International Students

Full-time fee: £26,000 per year. Tuition fees will remain the same for each year of your course providing you complete it in the normal timeframe (no repeat years or breaks in study).

Part-time fee: £6,500 per 30 credits. Tuition fees will remain the same for each year of your course providing you complete it in the normal timeframe (no repeat years or breaks in study).

Additional Information

A Master of Architecture qualification typically comprises 240 credits (120 credits for Year 1 and 120 credits for Year 2), a PGDip 120 credits, a PGCert 60 credits. Tuition fees will remain the same for each year of study provided the course is completed in the normal timeframe (no repeat years or breaks in study).

Additional Costs

Specialist Costs

£1,700* plus optional £1,000* Students often choose to buy a laptop in their first year however there are PCs and Macs on campus which do have the necessary software on them and students can loan laptops (which do not support advanced digital design programmes). Students may choose to buy a camera, although there are some available for loan. Students may need to obtain specialist software. Students may choose to buy a hard-drive. Students are required to buy some model-making equipment. Students may choose to use specialist model making equipment such as the 3D printers and the laser cutters. Students will be required to print their work for reviews. In the first year dissertation printing will be required.

Trips and Placement Costs

Optional £600* Students can choose to go on the Atelier based study trips.

Professional Costs

Students can choose to become a student member of the RIBA. It is free.

Other Costs

£20* plus optional £100* Students will probably need to support their Events Programme. Students may choose to buy books, although the library is excellent.

* All amounts shown are estimates.