Interior Architecture MA

Entry requirements

A minimum of a lower second class honours degree (2:2) in Architecture, Interior Architecture, Interior Design or a related design discipline. We also consider applicants from recognised international pre-Master’s programmes which include a portfolio element. We may also consider qualifications in other related subject areas, as well as demonstrable practical experience or knowledge of interior architecture, at the appropriate level.

If your qualifications are in subject areas cognate to the course you will be considered on merit. If your background is in another field you may be considered providing you are able to demonstrate practical experience or knowledge of interior design at the appropriate level Part-time students are normally expected to be employed by an interior design practice or related profession, and to have at least two years’ relevant work experience. Full-time students would normally be expected to have some relevant experience in interior design practice.

Applicants will be asked to submit their portfolio in an electronic format once they have made an application.

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

Portfolio guidance

The admissions process includes the submission of a design portfolio which demonstrates an applicant's track record in the following:

• design process (process as the continuous testing of design ideas leading to a logical and robust conclusion, rather than an exercise in shape-making)
• research and critical thinking skills, leading to ideas-based design
• technical proficiency, including awareness of material choices, surfaces and fabrication
• working at a wide range of scales (from a piece of furniture to an urban block)
• architectural representation using a wide range of media including, but not limited to, CAD (such as hand drawing, sketching, model making, diagramming, prototyping, photography, mixed-media and film)
• people-centred design (acknowledging people as physical bodies with ergonomic needs who occupy space)
• a genuine engagement with, and response to, context and place

You’ll be asked to provide a sample of your design work in the form of a digital portfolio, which reflects (as best you can) your engagement with the values and principles described above. Please submit a link to an online gallery (eg dropbox or similar) as part of your application. The portfolio should contain a representative sample of your own work demonstrating creative ability from your academic and professional work if applicable. Previous study and experience, such as photography, film or painting, may also be included. You are encouraged to provide an individual response reflecting your own particular skills and interests. If any work shown is group work, please make this clear and highlight your own personal contribution.

In addition to the digital portfolio, you should create a short video of 4-5 minutes. The video must be uploaded to an open platform (such as Youtube or Vimeo, or another accessible location) and the video link must be included in the portfolio. Please do not submit the raw video file with your application. In the video, you can briefly introduce yourself, though the emphasis should be on describing and explaining the portfolio design work, offering a verbal explanation of the your core design interests and methods. The video must be narrated by you, in your own voice, and in English (no sub-titles). The video may be as straightforward or as creative as you wish, so long as it communicates something of the your "voice" and ambition as a designer.

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

Our Interior Architecture MA promotes a conceptual and speculative approach to the design of interior environments. In doing so, it places and emphasis on research that seeks to expand the boundaries of the discipline as well as challenge standardised processes and traditional methodologies.

The programme affords multiple avenues of creative engagement giving you the opportunity to pursue your particular issues of interest in interior architecture, or specialist areas of three-dimensional design, through in-depth and focused studies, under the guidance of research-active and industry-experienced staff. Over the years, the course has continued to grow and is now an internationally sought-after Master’s programme that sits within the School of Architecture and Cities, based at our well-equipped Central London Campus.

Our course covers a range of specialist areas, both theoretical and practical. The curriculum is delivered through a diverse set of taught core modules including design and theory subjects, as well as the student-led thesis project. We also deliver specialist modules which promote the use of digital technologies to expand the students’ skill set. With a critical pedagogical agenda, we’ll challenge you to strive for a rich, mature synthesis of your learning from these modules, a process aimed to prepare you towards the challenges and opportunities of the complex professional world.

Information for international students

A minimum of a lower second class honours degree (2:2) in Architecture, Interior Architecture, Interior Design or a related design discipline. We also consider applicants from recognised international pre-Master’s programmes which include a portfolio element. We may also consider qualifications in other related subject areas, as well as demonstrable practical experience or knowledge of interior architecture, at the appropriate level.

If your qualifications are in subject areas cognate to the course you will be considered on merit. If your background is in another field you may be considered providing you are able to demonstrate practical experience or knowledge of interior design at the appropriate level Part-time students are normally expected to be employed by an interior design practice or related profession, and to have at least two years’ relevant work experience. Full-time students would normally be expected to have some relevant experience in interior design practice.

Applicants will be asked to submit their portfolio in an electronic format once they have made an application.

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

Portfolio guidance

The admissions process includes the submission of a design portfolio which demonstrates an applicant's track record in the following:

• design process (process as the continuous testing of design ideas leading to a logical and robust conclusion, rather than an exercise in shape-making)
• research and critical thinking skills, leading to ideas-based design
• technical proficiency, including awareness of material choices, surfaces and fabrication
• working at a wide range of scales (from a piece of furniture to an urban block)
• architectural representation using a wide range of media including, but not limited to, CAD (such as hand drawing, sketching, model making, diagramming, prototyping, photography, mixed-media and film)
• people-centred design (acknowledging people as physical bodies with ergonomic needs who occupy space)
• a genuine engagement with, and response to, context and place

You’ll be asked to provide a sample of your design work in the form of a digital portfolio, which reflects (as best you can) your engagement with the values and principles described above. Please submit a link to an online gallery (eg dropbox or similar) as part of your application. The portfolio should contain a representative sample of your own work demonstrating creative ability from your academic and professional work if applicable. Previous study and experience, such as photography, film or painting, may also be included. You are encouraged to provide an individual response reflecting your own particular skills and interests. If any work shown is group work, please make this clear and highlight your own personal contribution.

In addition to the digital portfolio, you should create a short video of 4-5 minutes. The video must be uploaded to an open platform (such as Youtube or Vimeo, or another accessible location) and the video link must be included in the portfolio. Please do not submit the raw video file with your application. In the video, you can briefly introduce yourself, though the emphasis should be on describing and explaining the portfolio design work, offering a verbal explanation of the your core design interests and methods. The video must be narrated by you, in your own voice, and in English (no sub-titles). The video may be as straightforward or as creative as you wish, so long as it communicates something of the your "voice" and ambition as a designer.

Application process

Visit our How to apply page for more information on:

• the application process
• what to include with your application
• deadlines for application and enrolment

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.