Bachelor of Architecture (Honours) in Architecture (RIBA Part 1)
Program Overview
The Metropolitan College's BArch (Hons) Architecture (RIBA Part 1) program combines theoretical and design approaches to architecture, emphasizing the use of both modern technological and conventional tools. The program is offered in collaboration with Oxford Brookes University and is the only architecture program in Greece with certification from the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). Graduates are well-trained to meet the specialized and complex demands of the construction industry and can work in architectural firms, design offices, or independently.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Metropolitan College's BArch (Hons) Architecture (RIBA Part 1) program is a comprehensive educational program combining theoretical and design approaches to architecture. The program acknowledges the rapid evolution of ideas, techniques, and social relations constantly reshaping modern lifestyles and how we manage built spaces and urban landscapes. It highlights the growing global need for well-designed living and working spaces and the enhancement of the natural environment. These changes necessitate the intervention of specialized architects capable of meeting contemporary challenges. The program, offered in collaboration with Oxford Brookes University, promotes both intellectual cultivation and creative handling of modern technological and conventional tools to shape integrated architectural works. The 4-year program includes a preparatory Foundation in Art & Media Practice; a 3-year program is available for applicants with post-secondary studies in a related field. The ultimate goal is for graduates to possess well-formed architectural opinions, a sharp critical mind, and the necessary technical knowledge to deeply understand the social context in which they will work and to respond to the advancements in their field. The program is offered in Greek.
Outline:
The program is structured across 4 years (or 3 years for those with relevant prior qualifications). The curriculum includes:
- Year 1 (Foundation in Art & Media Practice): Studies in Art & Design, Theory & Communication, Design Practices, Digital Imaging, Preparation & Development, and a Final Project.
- Year 2: Introduction to Architectural Composition 1, Architectural Representations, Architecture and Society, Introduction to the History & Theory of Architecture, and Introduction to Architectural Technology.
- Year 3: Architectural Composition 1, Architectural Composition 2, Architectural Technology, Digital Applications, Cities, Culture and Society, and History & Theory of Architecture.
- Year 4: Architectural Composition 3, Architectural Composition 4, Professional Practices, Legislation & Project Management, Architectural Technology, and Research Paper.
Teaching:
The program utilizes a combination of theoretical and design-based learning. It emphasizes the use of both modern technological and conventional tools. The program involves practical work in specialized workshops: Wood Processing, Metal, Plastic, Small Scale, Large Scale 1:1, Models, Architectural Composition, etc. There are also field trips to simulate a work environment and allow for the undertaking of architectural projects. An "Anniversary Book" featuring selected student works is also produced.
Careers:
Graduates are well-trained to meet the specialized and complex demands of the construction industry. They can work in architectural firms and design offices, or independently as freelancers, opening their own architectural offices/businesses. They can also pursue postgraduate studies in Greece and abroad for further specialization. A postgraduate program (2 years) is required for professional accreditation.
(Careers: Available)
Other:
The program is the only architecture program in Greece with certification from the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). Oxford Brookes University is ranked among the top 100 universities worldwide for architecture studies. The program offers the possibility of studying entirely in Greek. Graduates have opportunities for employment in Greece and abroad. The Metropolitan College's Architecture Department has held events such as the Architecture Year Show and published a zine.
(Other: Available)
Metropolitan College, established in 1982, is the largest institution for university studies in Greece. It collaborates with six international universities to offer over 70 bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs across 12 faculties. The college operates eight state-of-the-art campuses located in Athens, Maroussi, Piraeus, Thessaloniki, Larissa, Heraklion (Crete), Rhodes, and Patra. All programs lead to internationally recognized degrees awarded directly by the partner universities. Metropolitan College is officially licensed by the Greek Ministry of Education and Religious Affairs.
The college is distinguished for its high-quality academic offerings and esteemed faculty. It is the only college in Greece that is a member of the Compostela Group of Universities, an international network that fosters academic collaboration and recognition among top universities worldwide.
Metropolitan College's mission is to align Greece's higher education landscape with international standards, providing students with a diverse range of contemporary courses that meet current job market demands. The college has received numerous accolades, including recognition in the Times Higher Education Global University Impact Rankings and awards for its contributions to tourism education.
Entry Requirements:
The program is open to secondary school graduates wishing to pursue a career in Architecture. Applicants need to submit:
- Letters of recommendation from high school teachers.
- National Identity Card.
- Identity photos.
- English language proficiency certificate (only where required).
- Other academic qualifications (if any).
- Metropolitan College application form. Applicant evaluation includes a personal interview. Applicants with proven prior knowledge in the subject area (beyond secondary education) are considered on a case-by-case basis. Knowledge of Linear or Freehand Drawing is considered a valuable asset but is not a prerequisite. A one-year Foundation in Art & Media Practice program is mandatory for high school graduates without post-secondary studies in a related field. Applicants with post-secondary studies in a related field may be directly admitted to the first year of the bachelor's program, but an interview and portfolio are required.