Architecture MA

Entry requirements

A minimum of a lower second class honours degree (2:2) in architecture or a related art, design or built environment discipline.

If your first language is not English you should have an IELTS 6.5 with no element below 6.0.

You must provide a sample of your work in the form of a digital portfolio demonstrating creative ability from your academic and professional experience (an average of 10 pages). You may submit a link to your portfolio, an online gallery (e.g. dropbox or similar) or a website as part of your application.

Written statement guidance

Within your application you will be asked for a written statement. You are encouraged to provide an individual response reflecting your own particular skills and interests. Rather than a generic statement, we would like to understand why you are applying to join the MA Architecture. For example, which aspects of its content interest you? What are you hoping to experience on the course and how will it serve your longer-term ambitions? The more you can tell us about yourself, your creative and intellectual interests, and your aspirations, the better.

Portfolio guidance

The admissions process includes the submission of a design portfolio in electronic format to include a range of projects demonstrating:

• spatial or design awareness using a wide range of creative and analytical skills. Engage with, and respond to, people, context and place
• research and critical thinking skills
• the use of a wide range of media that may include digital and/or hand drawing, sketching, model making, photography and film. Avoid excessive generic renders and consider a variety of content that include the process of critical thinking and design
• (optional) a sample of academic writing (an extract from an essay or dissertation previously written).

Recognition of prior learning and experience

If you have previously studied at university level, or have equivalent work experience, academic credit may be awarded towards your course at Westminster. For more information, visit our Recognition of Prior Learning page.

Application process

Visit our How to apply page for more information on:

• the application process
• what you need to apply
• deadlines for applications

Months of entry

September

Course content

The Architecture MA offers a unique opportunity for graduates interested in the intersection of architectural design, theory and research, encouraging students to develop their own positions and identities as creative practitioners and thinkers.

A range of thematic and contextual concerns are offered and explored through the course using unconventional and imaginative methods of design, research and representation. These include cultural identity, architecture and society, political architecture, contested landscapes and digital design.

The course is delivered within a generous studio culture characterised by inclusion, creative experimentation and intellectual rigour. Participants work individually and in groups, and are directed by experienced and committed tutors who are experts in their respective fields. The course is further supported and enriched by a network of renowned visiting speakers and critics from practice and academia, as well as high-quality studio spaces and state-of-the-art fabrication facilities.

The Architecture MA incorporates a number of different study options including an extensive range of individual module choices and specialist pathways in Cultural Identity and Globalisation, History and Theory, and Digital Media.

If you are looking for our MArch (RIBA Part 2) course, please view this course page.

Download our Architecture MA – frequently asked questions (PDF).

Information for international students

A minimum of a lower second class honours degree (2:2) in architecture or a related art, design or built environment discipline.

If your first language is not English you should have an IELTS 6.5 with no element below 6.0.

You must provide a sample of your work in the form of a digital portfolio demonstrating creative ability from your academic and professional experience (an average of 10 pages). You may submit a link to your portfolio, an online gallery (e.g. dropbox or similar) or a website as part of your application.

Written statement guidance

Within your application you will be asked for a written statement. You are encouraged to provide an individual response reflecting your own particular skills and interests. Rather than a generic statement, we would like to understand why you are applying to join the MA Architecture. For example, which aspects of its content interest you? What are you hoping to experience on the course and how will it serve your longer-term ambitions? The more you can tell us about yourself, your creative and intellectual interests, and your aspirations, the better.

Portfolio guidance

The admissions process includes the submission of a design portfolio in electronic format to include a range of projects demonstrating:

• spatial or design awareness using a wide range of creative and analytical skills. Engage with, and respond to, people, context and place
• research and critical thinking skills
• the use of a wide range of media that may include digital and/or hand drawing, sketching, model making, photography and film. Avoid excessive generic renders and consider a variety of content that include the process of critical thinking and design
• (optional) a sample of academic writing (an extract from an essay or dissertation previously written).

Recognition of prior learning and experience

If you have previously studied at university level, or have equivalent work experience, academic credit may be awarded towards your course at Westminster. For more information, visit our Recognition of Prior Learning page.

Application process

Visit our How to apply page for more information on:

• the application process
• what you need to apply
• deadlines for applications

More information

• Country-specific entry requirements
• English language requirements
• Visas and advice
• Fees and scholarship information

University preparation courses

Our partner college, Kaplan International College London, offers Pre-Master’s courses that may help you gain a place on a postgraduate degree at Westminster.

To find out more, visit University preparation courses.

Fees and funding

This course is eligible for an alumni discount. Find out if you are eligible and how to apply by visiting our Alumni discounts page. As well as tuition fee loans, there is a range of funding available to help you fund your studies.