Program Overview

Course Overview

The BA (Hons) Architecture course is a unique collaboration between the University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University, forming the internationally renowned Manchester School of Architecture. This course gives students a thorough insight into how architects work and prepares them for a year in industry. It is validated by the Royal Institute for British Architects (RIBA) and the Architects Registration Board (ARB).

Special Features

Benefit from the facilities and expertise of two universities

Students benefit from facilities and resources across the two universities, including libraries, workshops, and materials stores on both campuses. They can also join societies and sports at both universities and benefit from two unions.

Experience local fieldtrips

Students gain a real-world understanding of their subject through local fieldwork.

Gain Accreditation

By completing the course, students gain the RIBA Part 1 professional qualification, contributing to becoming a fully qualified architect. Many graduates return to study the postgraduate Master of Architecture course, recognised as a new academic qualification by ARB and a Part 2 qualification by the RIBA.

Join the UK's largest Architecture student society

Manchester Student Society of Architecture is the largest of its kind in the UK and enhances students' experience of the school, giving them the opportunity to build valuable relationships with students in other years.

Additional Experiences

The school offers extra activities, including international guest architects, workshops, extra tutorials, and digital design sessions. Students also have access to networking events, CV workshops, and employability sessions.

What will you study?

Year 1

In Year 1, students explore principles in space-making, material expression, brief writing, and research supported by technological and historic contexts. They also participate in the celebrated MSA Live programme, working with real clients in the city.

Year 2

In Year 2, students' design knowledge deepens, integrating urban theory and specialist sustainable teaching with increasing complexity, preparing them for their final year of study.

Year 3

In Year 3, students are guided to direct their own learning and define their own theoretical position. They evolve a personal design project supported by the unique 'atelier' system.

Coursework and Assessment

Students engage in collaborative projects, group work activities, and give presentations to their peers/tutors. All assessments are based on coursework, and there are no exams. As a professionally accredited course, all modules must be passed.

Career Opportunities

BA Architecture graduates are highly valued for their confidence and creativity, and benefit from strong links with national and international architectural practices. They have gone on to successful careers in areas including architecture, advertising, estate management, project management, real estate, urban design, and web design.

Degree Award

As a student at Manchester School of Architecture (MSA), students study a degree that is delivered jointly by The University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University. Upon successful completion of their studies, they receive one degree certificate, which includes each institution's crest and awarding body title.