Taught course

Architecture

Institution
University of Portsmouth · School of Architecture, Art and Design
Qualifications
MA
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Entry requirements

A minimum of a second-class honours degree in a relevant subject such as Architecture, Interior Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Urban Design, Civil Engineering, Building Surveying, Geography, Spatial Practice, History, Fine Art or a design-related subject, or equivalent professional experience and/or qualifications. An online portfolio submission may be required as part of the selection process.

English language proficiency at a minimum of IELTS band 6.5 with no component score below 5.5.

Months of entry

January, September

Course content

Overview
With our specialist MA Architecture degree course, you can augment your creative practice and research by specialising in alternative forms of architecture: Building and Heritage Conservation, Landscape and Urban Design, or Spatial Design Practices.
Regardless of your background in architecture, arts, or humanities, you'll become proficient in architectural design. In a unique studio-based environment, you'll explore spatial theories and their environmental applications, tackle contemporary issues affecting the architecture and construction industries, and utilise innovative technologies to produce works at the forefront of contemporary design.
You'll have many opportunities to put your study into practice on this Architecture Master's, such as collaborating with local and regional bodies on live projects, and taking part in work-based learning opportunities and community-led projects. Your design, professional, and technical skills will also be strengthened through them.
By the end of this course, you'll be well-prepared for a career in many areas of the architecture sector, or you can continue your studies at PhD level.
You can study this Master's course in a year (September start) or 17 months (January start) full-time, or two years part-time (September start only).
Course highlights
    • Specialise in one of three disciplines to channel your expertise: building and heritage conservation, landscape and urban design, and spatial theories
    • Learn in a practice- and design-based studio environment similar to industry settings, unique to Portsmouth
    • Realise your innovative and architectural concepts and designs using our high-tech facilities—including the UK's first Centre for Creative and Immersive Extended Reality
    • Collaborate with students on other courses to widen your team-working abilities and exchange knowledge
    • Get involved in community-led projects to engage with the public and sharpen your understanding of how consumers interact with architecture and space
    • Be taught by leading experts in architecture to learn the latest professional standards
    • Work with actual clients on live briefs to enhance your professional and research experience
    • Take part in competitions and live projects—within the Project Office and School of Architecture—to enhance your technical, creative, and professional reputation

Accreditation

Our Building and Heritage Conservation exit award is accredited by the Institute of Historic Building Conservation (IHBC) – the UK's leading body for building conservation practitioners and historic environment experts – and covers its areas of competence. The award also follows the education guidelines of the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS), UNESCO and Council of Europe requirements.

Graduates from MA Architecture: Building and Heritage Conservation can also apply for full IHBC membership after two years of relevant professional experience, as opposed to five years through the normal route.

Career planning

During your course, you'll have expert career support from your tutors and from our Careers and Employability Centre, which you can access for 5 years after you graduate.

Career support

You'll benefit from:

  • Networking events
  • 1-to-1 appointments
  • CV and cover letter advice
  • Interview preparation and practice
  • Workshops to enhance your employability skills
  • Recruitment events, including the Student and Graduate Opportunities Fair
  • Support starting your own business
Careers and opportunities
By graduating from this specialist Architecture Master's course, you'll gain a broad perspective on the way the built and non-built environment affects society, as well as a vision for a sustainable future. You'll be able to explore new systemic and integrated solutions for cities, landscapes and historic built environment, and help shape a greener, healthier, inclusive, and more resilient future for people and societies the world over.
Prospects (2022) estimates that the average salary range for the architecture sector is £35,000–40,000. The valuable skills, insight, and further experience you'll gain on this course will set the foundation for a successful career in the architectural and planning fields.
Depending on your specialisation, you might also hone your skills in more niche areas.

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
University Admissions Centre
Email
admissions@port.ac.uk
Phone
+44 (0)23 9284 5566
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