Program Overview

The MArch/PgDip Advanced Architectural Design is a postgraduate program designed for UK/EU architecture graduates seeking Part 2 professional qualification. The program is validated by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and accredited by the Architect’s Registration Board (ARB) for the purpose of eligibility for registration with that body.

Key Facts

• Start date: September
• Accreditation: RIBA, ARB (Part 2)
• Study mode and duration:
  • MArch: 24 months full-time
  • PgDip: 21 months full-time
  • Students entering Year 2 of the programme:
    • MArch: 12 months full-time
    • PgDip: 9 months full-time
• Travel: Study trip opportunities in both the UK and overseas
• Study: Opportunity to study abroad (subject to Visa conditions)

Program Structure

The program is divided into two years, with the first year focusing on consolidating architectural design skills and introducing students to the idea of architecture as a responsive solution to fundamental social issues. The second year involves an architectural project that requires students to take a viewpoint on contemporary architectural issues and choose a theme that reflects their own interests and creative ambitions.

Course Content

• Year 1:
  • Design Studies 4A – To Care (Part 1)
  • Design Studies 4B – To Care (Part 2)
  • Architecture & The City
  • Special Study Project 4
• Year 2:
  • Design Studies
  • Cultural Studies 5
  • Professional Studies 5
  • Special Study Project 5
• Dissertation: A substantial piece of research that can include a design with or a written investigation of an area/topic of interest.
• Portfolio: A comprehensive academic portfolio that includes all design projects undertaken over the two years of study, as well as the outputs of any subject classes.

Learning and Teaching

The course is made up of studio design work, lectures, special projects, and workshops. The focus of study is on design project work, including the analysis, synthesis, and appraisal of design ideas.

Assessment

• The MArch degree normally requires further assessment over the summer semester.
• Exams in semesters 1 and 2 on all aspects of the course.
• Presentation of a complete academic portfolio based on advanced design study.

Facilities

• Studios: Two design studios, one drop-in and one dedicated to design teaching.
• Library: A reference library with a collection developed in direct response to the teaching delivered in the department.
• Workshop: A full range of hand and portable power tools, plotter printing, scanning, and laser cutting services.

Entry Requirements

• Normally, a first-class or second-class honors degree in Architecture.
• If you hold overseas qualifications obtained outside the EU or hold a non-recognized UK qualification, you will need to pass ARB’s Examination for Equivalence to Prescribed Qualifications.
• An academic portfolio is required, containing all relevant design work from your previous course of study.
• English language requirements apply if English is not your first language.

Fees and Funding

• Tuition Fees:
  • Scotland: £1,820 (MArch)
  • England, Wales & Northern Ireland: £9,535 (MArch)
  • International: £26,250 (MArch)
• Additional Costs:
  • Books & printed materials: £250
  • Study trips (optional): £250
  • Drawing materials: £100
  • Model making: £200
  • Miscellaneous costs: £120
• Scholarships: Available for self-funded, international (non-EU) fee-paying students starting the course full-time in September 2025.

Careers

Career opportunities for Architecture graduates range from working in large multidisciplinary practices to smaller specialist firms. Many graduates are employed by highly respected practices throughout the world, while others have set up their own businesses. The Department has a growing reputation for developing entrepreneurial graduates who go on to make their mark in the sector independently.

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Outline:

• Year 1:
• Design Studies 4A – To Care (Part 1)
• Design Studies 4B – To Care (Part 2)
• Cultural Studies 4
• Year 2:
• Design Studies
• Cultural Studies 5
• Professional Studies 5

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Assessment:

• Exams in semesters 1 and 2 on all aspects of the course
• Complete academic portfolio based on advanced design study

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Teaching:

• Studio design work
• Lectures
• Special projects
• Workshops

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Careers:

• Architect
• Architectural assistant
• Assistant rural surveyor
• Computer Graphics/Web Designer
• Computer Games Designer
• Community Engagement Leader
• Journalist
• Model Maker/physical & virtual
• Part 2 architectural assistant
• Part 3 architectural design
• Practical conservation worker
• Project Manager
• Researcher
• Teacher
• Theatre/Stage Set Designer
• Urban Designer

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Other:

• Study abroad opportunities (subject to academic performance)
• Guest lectures from industry professionals
• Extensive programme of student awards provided by professional bodies

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All fees quoted are for full-time courses and per academic year unless stated otherwise. Tuition fees will be notified in your offer letter. All fees are in £ sterling, unless otherwise stated, and may be subject to revision. Annual revision of fees Students on programmes of study of more than one year (or studying standalone modules) should be aware that tuition fees are revised annually and may increase in subsequent years of study. Annual increases will generally reflect UK inflation rates and increases to programme delivery costs. 2024/25 Go back ScotlandTBC England, Wales & Northern Ireland£9,250 International£23,200 Additional Costs books & printed materials – £250 study trips (optional) – £250 drawing materials – £100 model making – £200 miscellaneous costs – £120

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Overview:

• Founded in 1796 as Anderson's Institution
• Received its Royal Charter in 1964, becoming the University of Strathclyde
• Consistently ranked among the top 10 universities in the UK for engineering and technology
• Home to the Advanced Forming Research Centre (AFRC), a world-leading research center in metal forming
• Notable alumni include Sir James Black (Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine), Sir David Murray (former CEO of Rangers Football Club), and Dame Jocelyn Bell Burnell (astrophysicist)

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Student Life:

• Over 23,000 students from over 100 countries
• 150+ student clubs and societies, including sports teams, cultural groups, and academic societies
• Student support services include counseling, health, and disability support
• Campus facilities include a sports center, library, and student union

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Academics:

• Offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in engineering, science, business, law, and social sciences
• Faculty includes world-renowned experts in their fields
• Teaching methodologies emphasize hands-on learning and industry engagement
• Academic support services include tutoring, writing centers, and language support
• Unique academic programs include the Strathclyde MBA, which is ranked among the top 100 MBAs in the world

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Top Reasons to Study Here:

• Excellent reputation for teaching and research, particularly in engineering and technology
• Strong industry connections and opportunities for internships and placements
• Specialized facilities such as the AFRC and the Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences
• Vibrant student life with a diverse and inclusive community
• Located in the heart of Glasgow, a vibrant and cosmopolitan city

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Services:

• Counseling and mental health support
• Health center with a range of medical services
• Accommodation services with a variety of on-campus and off-campus options
• Library resources with over 1 million books and journals
• Technology support including IT services and free Wi-Fi
• Career development services with support for job searching, CV writing, and interview preparation