Architecture
Entry requirements
You will normally have at least an upper second class undergraduate UK honours degree in architecture from a RIBA School.
You will also need to have completed at least six months work in an architectural practice or a related built environment design field.
A portfolio of work should be submitted with your application. We also require a personal statement and two references in support of your application, one from an academic from your previous institution, the other a reference or references from your current/previous employer(s) confirming your six months of practical experience.
Admission will normally be dependent on a successful application and possibly an interview.
Equivalent EU/international qualifications will also be considered. Applicants who do not meet these criteria will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Other professional qualifications or degree disciplines will be considered on merit and/or with relevant professional experience.
Overseas applicants will require IELTS with an overall score of 6.5 with no less than 6.5 in any category, or an equivalent accepted English qualification.
Application requirements are subject to PSRB requirements.
See How to Apply for details.
Accepted English qualifications can be viewed here.
Alternative Route Entry
The Manchester School of Architecture (MSA) acknowledges that students can excel at different stages of their educational journey. As such, we will consider applications from individuals who did not achieve an upper-second-class or first-class degree in Architecture, provided they can demonstrate the following:
A minimum of two full years of work experience in an architectural practice or a related design field.
An employer reference that explicitly states the length of employment. Only practical experience completed in increments of at least three months will be considered.
Additional relevant experience, such as participation in design competitions, travel, or other creative pursuits that demonstrate architectural engagement.
A comprehensive CV outlining professional activities.
A personal statement of approximately 500 words detailing personal and professional progress since completing their undergraduate degree.
Applications must include a CV, a statement, and a small selection of a design portfolio. Failure to include these supporting documents will result in the application not being considered. Applicants shortlisted for consideration will be invited to attend an interview. During the interview, candidates will present a complete portfolio, discuss their professional development since their undergraduate degree, and outline their motivation for joining the MSA.
Find out about English language requirements.
If you are an international student, you will usually need to get a student visa before you can study in the UK.
Months of entry
September
Course content
Acknowledging the rapidly changing social and professional contexts in which it is situated, the Master of Architecture is a distinctly future oriented course. It provides rigorous understanding of contemporary professional architecture practice; encourages students to combine this with their individual life-wide learning and experiences; and supports them in developing skills of future literacy, to become autonomous agents of positive change. Our graduates are capable and eager to define their own career path, equipped with capabilities to lead the development of the discipline, challenge the status quo, and to thrive in ever changing contexts.
Manchester School of Architecture is a unique partnership between the University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University. The course leverages the research and technical pedigrees of these two institutions to provide an unrivalled breadth and depth of world leading specialist academic, professional, technical, and teaching expertise. Additionally, the course makes use of the scale of the school to provide interdisciplinary teaching alongside related courses.
Teaching on the course takes a student centric approach, where student autonomy is highly valued, dedicated to helping you define your own trajectory from the day before you arrive to the days, and years, after you graduate.
During your studies you will be developing your understanding of the contemporary discipline, the contexts in which it is practiced and the pressing factors facing it and wider society. Design projects will focus on contemporary social issues such as the Climate Emergency, and the adaptive reuse of existing buildings, supported by specialist contributions from experts in the field. The content of design briefs is continually reviewed to remain world leading and cutting edge.
The School’s heritage of working within the city enables regular and meaningful engagement with practices, clients, and other relevant groups throughout the course of your studies. The course maintains an exceptional employer reputation, which enables the course to provide students with opportunities to build their professional networks prior to graduation.
Find out more about Manchester School of Architecture's MArch programme and ateliers here.
Features and benefits:
- A top ranked school of architecture - Manchester School of Architecture is placed 5th in the world in the QS 2025 Architecture rankings.
- Joint degree and world-class resources - You will study a programme jointly delivered by The University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University. Graduates receive a degree certificate that carries both institutions’ crests and titles.
- Industry networks - You will benefit from MSA’s strong industry connections and employer network. Practitioner-tutors contribute directly to the studio curriculum, supported by international visiting speakers, practice visits, and building studies.
- Expert staff - MSA has over 100 expert staff committed to engaged and responsive design teaching and cutting-edge research.
- Internationally recognised ateliers - Choose from a diverse range of ateliers to learn through distinct approaches to the future of architecture in a wider cultural context.
- Space for innovation - The programme gives you access to the full range of facilities across both universities, including libraries, computer suites, making and media workshops, and more.
Information for international students
Please visit the international page.
Fees and funding
For further information please see the fees and funding page.
Qualification, course duration and attendance options
- MArch
- full time24 months
- Campus-based learningis available for this qualification
Course contact details
- Name
- Course Enquiries Team
- courses@mmu.ac.uk
- Phone
- +44 (0)161 247 6969