Program Overview

Master of Architecture Architecture

Introduction to MArch, ARB Part 2

Explore our Master of Architecture in Chelmsford and take the next step to becoming a registered architect of the future, with an emphasis on ethical, innovative and sustainable practice.

Study a Masters in Architecture at ARU

Find out more about our Part 2, ARB prescribed degree and its focus on sustainable, adaptable lived environments.

Our comprehensive curriculum places architectural design at its heart, equipping you with the tools needed for a future-focused practice.

We believe in shaping architects who not only design remarkable spaces but also contribute to a safer and more conscious world. At our Chelmsford campus, you'll learn to design with a clear purpose, creating spaces that promote safety for people and the planet. Collaboration is at our core, and our industry-focused approach encourages you to work across disciplines to achieve exceptional results.

Benefit from weekly masterclass workshops, led by industry specialists, and explore a spectrum of technical and creative-practical topics including 3D fabrication, computational design, robotics, extended reality, and analogue-digital assemblages.

Successful completion of the course sets you on the path to fulfilling your practical experience requirement and achieving your Part 3 qualification.

Why study our Master of Architecture?

• Unlock your architectural potential in a sustainable future
• Discover a Masters in architecture that goes beyond the traditional to prepare you for the challenges of tomorrow.
• Experience real-world practice
• Embrace technology for change
• Collaborate across disciplines
• Join us in shaping the future of architecture

Course options

• 2 years full-time
• September
• Chelmsford

Key facts

• STUDY OPTIONS: 2 years full-time
• START DATES: September
• LOCATION: Chelmsford
• FEES:
  • £9,800 UK students starting 2025/26 (full-time, per year)
  • £18,600 International students starting 2025/26 (full-time, per year)

Teaching and assessment

Year 1

In the first year of your studies, you will explore your role as an architecture practitioner by studying five modules. You will become politically aware, critically informed, and environmentally literate allowing you to build on your existing knowledge and preparing you for practice after studying.

• Design Studio 1 Technology Mediated Design
• Tools, Techniques, Materials and Media
• Design Studio 2 Practice Mediated Design
• Ethical and Reflective Practice
• Transdisciplinary Research Methods
• Final Dissertation Design Manifesto

Year 2

The knowledge you acquired in Year 1 will be applied to your design studio projects in Year 2.

• Studio 3.1 Integrated Architectural Design Thesis
• Environmental Consciousness and Climate Literacy
• The Architect in Practice
• Studio 3.2 Integrated Architectural Design Thesis

Entry requirements

• An undergraduate degree in Architecture (normally ARB Part 1 or equivalent degree) or a Part 1 ARB validated (prescribed) award. A portfolio that evidences potential for postgraduate study is also required. International applicants with First Degrees in the subject area are encouraged to apply.
• If English is not your first language you will be expected to demonstrate a certificated level of proficiency of at least IELTS 6.5 (Academic level) or equivalent English Language qualification, as recognised by Anglia Ruskin University.

Fees and paying for university

Tuition fees for UK students (2025/26)

£9,800 UK students starting 2025/26 (full-time, per year)

ARU graduates may be eligible for an Alumni Scholarship and get a 20% fee discount.

Tuition fees for international students (2025/26)

£18,600 International students starting 2025/26 (full-time, per year)

Facilities

• Specialist studios
• Outstanding student support

Accreditation

• ARB Part 2 prescribed

Our Master of Architecture degree is prescribed (Part 2) by the Architects Registration Board. When you complete our course, you'll fulfil the second part of the three-part process to become a registered architect in the UK.

Careers

Our Master of Architecture degree is designed to fulfil the criteria for ARB prescription at Part 2.

It focuses on fire safety and environmental sustainability, situated citizenship, professional ethics, climate literacy and fire and life safety, and the UN Sustainable Design Goals.

With a Master of Architecture from ARU, you will undertake professional practice experience and a related examination so that you're eligible to achieve status as a registered UK architect. The Master of Architecture course is Part 2 of the criteria needed to become a registered and chartered Architect in the UK. Candidates will need to complete Part 1 (via ARB prescribed examination or from previous studies), and Part 3, Professional Practice, to be listed on the register.

You'll also be mentored by your personal tutor and others who teach our design- and practice-related modules, with events organised to help you meet practitioners. Our alumni society will be of further help to your career development.

As a well-rounded and critically informed professional, a life-long learner who can target diverse opportunities of employment in the sector and beyond because of their disclosive skills, a well-situated citizen who appreciates local intricacies and global ramifications, and as an ethically driven individual who presents resilience, agility and adaptability in life making and professional decisions, you'll be ready to work in any architectural practice in the UK and abroad; create a start-up collective; work as a computational designer or product designer; or consider opportunities with planning authorities, or in interior and landscape design.

With a Master of Architecture you can also undertake an MPhil or a PhD in architecture, urban design or related disciplines. There are options to pursue a traditional higher degree, or to complete a doctorate-by-design or by publication. Take advantage of our Alumni Scholarship and save £400 on your fees.