Program Overview
The Master of Architecture program at Islamic Azad University-UAE Branch equips students with advanced knowledge and skills in architectural design, environmental design, and research. Through its focus on both Iranian and global contexts, the program develops students' conceptualization, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities for societal change and prepares them for a wide range of career opportunities in the architecture profession.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Master of Architecture is a graduate program offered by the Islamic Azad University (IAU)-UAE Branch. It focuses on studying the architectural profession and conducting research. This program builds upon a Bachelor of Architecture Engineering degree.
Program Aims:
- To equip students with fundamental knowledge and skills in architectural design, environmental design, socio-cultural approaches, construction, and architectural research within both Iranian and global contexts.
- To develop comprehensive knowledge and skills in architectural design and construction.
- To foster conceptualization, analysis, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills for societal change.
- To cultivate advanced adaptation skills for local and international contexts.
Program Learning Objectives (PLO):
- Design Theories, Methods and Skills:
- PLO1: Discuss the main theories and methods in architectural design disciplines.
- PLO2: Develop architectural design practice and skills.
- Theory and Knowledge:
- PLO3: Discuss original texts, essays, and documents in architectural theory and history.
- PLO4: Develop socio-cultural and historical-contextual studies in architecture.
- Professional Practice:
- PLO5: Develop professional knowledge and skills in design and construction.
- PLO6: Explore professional possibilities for applying expertise in productive employment.
- Research Practice:
- PLO7: Identify research problems conducted by other scholars in a specific area of Architecture.
- PLO8: Understand quantitative and qualitative research methods used in the systematic spatial study of the built environment.
- PLO9: Conduct a testing-out research project (small or medium size) in the field and/or subfield of architecture.
Outline:
Program Schedule:
| Semester | Course | Course Type | Credits | Hours Per Semester | |---|---|---|---|---| | 1st | Research Methodology and Dissertation Preparation | Core Course | 2 | 32 | | 1st | Architectural Programming and Design Methods | Core Course | 2 | 32 | | 1st | Architectural Design I | Core Course | 4 | 128 | | 1st | Contemporary Architectural Theory Origins | Core Elective Course | 2 | 32 | | 2nd | Iranian Architecture Philosophy | Core Course | 2 | 32 | | 2nd | Architectural Design II | Core Course | 4 | 128 | | 2nd | Human Beings and Environment | Core Course | 2 | 32 | | 3rd | Architectural Rights and Rules | Core Course | 2 | 32 | | 3rd | Architectural Design III | Core Course | 4 | 128 | | 3rd | Construction Procedure | Core Course | 2 | 64 | | 4th | Final Design Project and Dissertation | Core Course | 6 | 192 |
| Total | | | 32 | 832 |
Core Courses:
- Research Methodology in Architecture: This course provides a framework, process, and compositional approach for designing qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods research proposals. It compares these three approaches to inquiry, covering aspects like research paradigm, literature review, theory in research, introduction writing, purpose statement, research questions and hypotheses, and data collection and analysis methods.
- Architectural Programming and Design Methods: This course comprises two parts: architectural programming and design theories, processes, and methods. It focuses on theoretical studies and procedural skills in pre-design, design, and production. It covers briefing, programming and planning, design methods, form development process, and analytical-synthetic approaches in design.
- Iranian Architecture Philosophy (and Wisdom): This course explores the philosophy and wisdom embedded in Iranian architecture, aiming to clarify and develop philosophies and thinking processes in shaping architectural objects while shaping different spatial perception types.
- Architectural Design II: This course delves into the theoretical bases of the architectural design process, design creativity, and architectural aesthetics.
- Human Beings and Environment: This course examines the relationship between humans and natural and artificial environments theoretically and practically. It emphasizes the adaptive built environment and global changes to the ecosystem.
- Architectural Rights and Regulations: This course covers laws, rules, and regulations related to architectural practice and professions, including different types of national building codes, regulations, and rules across disciplines.
- Architectural Design III: This course focuses on functional and technical design elements and integrated design using structural, mechanical, and electrical components. It extends the "Architectural Design II" course from the Master of Architecture program.
- Construction Procedure: This course explores technical, technological construction factors, themes, and procedures in architecture. It develops students' construction management skills and abilities.
- Final Design Project and Dissertation: This course culminates all knowledge, design skills, research skills, and construction abilities through a mid or large-scale design project and a research dissertation.
General Elective Courses:
- Contemporary Architectural Theory Origins: This course delves into theoretical studies in contemporary architecture and research on their origins and roots. It develops a theoretical framework for design projects and extends the "Architectural Theory (Basics)" course from the Bachelor of Architectural Engineering program.
Program Structure:
| Category | Course Type | No. | Credits | Hours per Semester | |---|---|---|---|---| | Master of Architecture (MA) | Core Course | 11 | 32 | 832 |
Careers:
- Architects can work worldwide on various projects.
- Graduates can find employment in both private and public sectors, including:
- Housing projects
- Firm designs
- Municipalities
- Other potential job roles include:
- Consultants
- Building surveyors
- Building film set designers
- Landscape architects
- Structural engineers
- Urban planners/designers
- University teaching positions
Total Course Fee (2021/2022) AED: 000 Dirham-based Fees Course Fee Currency Education Service Fee 2.200 Fixed Tuition Fee 4.600 Theory Credit Points 850 Practical Credit Points 1.350 Workshop N/A Dissertation per Credit 2.600 Total Course Fee 60.000 United Arab Emirates dirham (AED) Total Course fee for Rial Based Fees: 71.000 Course fee currency Education Service Fee 2.200 Fixed Tuition Fee 6.000 Theory Credit Points 1050 Practical Credit Points1350 Workshop N/A Dissertation per credit 2.600 Total course fees 71.000 Iranian Rial
Islamic Azad University | Dubai Branch
Overview:
Islamic Azad University (IAU) is a private, non-profit university with a branch in Dubai, UAE. The IAU-UAE branch is committed to fostering a dynamic and inclusive academic environment where students can pursue academic excellence, engage in research, and contribute to the diverse community.
Services Offered:
Academic Programs:
Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Architecture Engineering and Business Management.Language Centre:
Offers language courses.Short Term Courses:
Provides short-term courses in various fields.Career Advising Sessions:
Offers career development guidance.Student Wellbeing:
Provides support services for student well-being.Student Facilities:
Includes accommodation, medical services, sports facilities, and dining options.Student Resources:
Offers access to brochures, calendars, and student handbooks.Student Life and Campus Experience:
The IAU-UAE branch provides a vibrant campus environment with state-of-the-art facilities, dedicated faculty, and a supportive environment. Students can expect a dynamic and inclusive learning experience with opportunities for collaboration and community engagement.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Dynamic and Inclusive Environment:
Fosters a welcoming and supportive atmosphere for students from diverse backgrounds.State-of-the-Art Facilities:
Provides access to modern resources and infrastructure.Dedicated Faculty:
Offers guidance and mentorship from experienced and qualified faculty.Career Development Support:
Provides career advising sessions and resources to help students prepare for their future careers.International Recognition:
The university is accredited by the Quality Assurance for Higher Education (QAHE) in the UK.Academic Programs:
Department of Architecture Engineering:
Offers Bachelor of Architecture Engineering and Master of Architecture Engineering programs.Department of Business Studies:
Offers Bachelor of Business Management and Master of Business Administration programs.Department of Law:
Offers law programs (details not provided in the context).Language Centre:
Offers language courses (details not provided in the context).Short Term Courses:
Offers short-term courses in various fields (details not provided in the context).Other:
- The IAU-UAE branch is accredited by the Quality Assurance for Higher Education (QAHE) in the UK.
- The university offers scholarships to eligible students.
- The IAU-UAE branch has a strong alumni network with successful graduates in various fields.
- The university hosts various events, including conferences, workshops, and career fairs.
-
The IAU-UAE branch has a partnership with Dubai Knowledge Park.
-
Student Life and Campus Experience:
While the context mentions a vibrant campus environment, it does not provide specific details about student life and campus experiences.
Academic Programs:
The context provides limited information about the specific courses and curriculum offered within each program.Entry Requirements:
- General Entry Requirements:
- Completion of an undergraduate program (Bachelor’s degree).
- Students must have a bachelor’s degree in architecture to be admitted to the Master of Architecture program.
- If the applicant holds an undergraduate degree in other programs, or disciplines other than Architecture, they need to complete some foundation courses in the first semester of their studies.
- English Language Requirements:
- This degree requires a minimum of an/a:
- IELTS (Academic) of 5.5, with no Writing and Speaking band less than 5.5, or
- PTE Academic score of 45, with no score lower than 40, or
- TOEFL (iBT) of 53, with no individual band less than 50
- For students who do not meet the English Language Requirement through citizenship or prior studies in English in an approved country, an approved English language test completed within the last two years must be provided.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- IELTS (Academic) of 5.5, with no Writing and Speaking band less than 5.5
- PTE Academic score of 45, with no score lower than 40
- TOEFL (iBT) of 53, with no individual band less than 50
