Taught course

History of Architecture

Institution
Birkbeck, University of London · School of Historical Studies
Qualifications
MA
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Entry requirements

A second-class honours degree (2:2) or above in a relevant subject or equivalent (for example, professional experience).

For students with a degree in a subject other than history of art, the one-year part-time Graduate Certificate in History of Art and Architecture can be used as a conversion course. Students who successfully complete the Graduate Certificate with Merit will normally be guaranteed a place on this course.

Applications are reviewed on their individual merits and your professional qualifications and/or relevant work experience will be taken into consideration positively. We actively support and encourage applications from mature learners.

Months of entry

October

Course content

Our MA History of Architecture explores built and designed objects, their social, economic and political contexts, their connections to culture and thought, and their urban and landscape settings. This course will train you at a high level to look at, think and write about, and research architecture and its fascinating histories.

You will discover varied approaches to the study of architecture, and the course allows you to focus in depth on areas and periods that you find particularly interesting. Through option modules, you can choose to study the early and modern - including contemporary - periods and range across a variety of geographic places. You will improve your visual and spatial acuity, deepen your knowledge of architecture's histories, and hone your ability to understand and contribute to stimulating critical debates. You will also improve your research skills.

This history of architecture degree offers you the opportunity to study with internationally recognised experts. Our teaching staff are defining the field, conducting ground-breaking research in the history and theory of architecture, interiors and cities. You will work closely with them, while also benefiting from being part of our diverse and vibrant student body, which includes people of all ages and backgrounds. Your studies will also be enriched by walks and site visits, visiting speakers, screenings and opportunities to get involved in research and community outreach activities.

Highlights
  • Birkbeck was ranked as one of the top four universities in the UK for its Art and Design research in the 2021 Research Excellence Framework.
  • We offer a number of bursaries for postgraduate students.
  • Our Architecture, Space and Society Centre organises a vibrant programme of talks, symposia, debates, tours and more, which are free to attend. You can get access to an incredible range of resources, including the Birkbeck Library and our in-house resources centre, specialist libraries within the University of London, the major national resource of the British Library, and specialist art and architecture libraries not far from Birkbeck, including the Royal Institute of British Architects and the National Art Library at the Victoria and Albert Museum. We are located in a building of rich architectural and cultural significance. It offers easy access to the fascinating architectural and urban palimpsest of London.
  • You will have the opportunity to apply for a work placement with London museums, galleries and archives. You also have the option to join our study trips, offered each spring. Cities visited in the last few years include Florence, Paris, Venice, Vienna, Rome, Berlin and Moscow.
  • Find out more about our staff and student activities on the Birkbeck History of Art blog or join us at one of our information evenings, held throughout the year.
Careers and employability

Graduates can pursue career paths in the heritage and museums sector, media and education. Possible professions include:

  • heritage professional
  • museum/gallery curator
  • arts administrator
  • advertising account executive
  • community arts worker
  • multimedia specialist
  • higher education lecturer.

We offer a comprehensive careers service - Careers and Enterprise - your career partner during your time at Birkbeck and beyond. At every stage of your career journey, we empower you to take ownership of your future, helping you to make the connection between your experience, education and future ambitions.

Information for international students

If English is not your first language or you have not previously studied in English, the requirement for this programme is the equivalent of an International English Language Testing System (IELTS Academic Test) score of 6.5, with not less than 6.0 in each of the sub-tests.

If you don't meet the minimum IELTS requirement, we offer pre-sessional English courses and foundation programmes to help you improve your English language skills and get your place at Birkbeck.

Qualification, course duration and attendance options

  • MA
    part time
    24 months
    • Campus-based learningis available for this qualification
    full time
    12 months
    • Campus-based learningis available for this qualification

Course contact details

Name
Student Advice Service
Email
studentadvice@bbk.ac.uk
Phone
+44 (0)20 3907 0700
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