Program Overview

Introduction to the BA (Hons) Architecture Program

The BA (Hons) Architecture program at the University of York is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in architecture, focusing on responsible design for public good. The program aims to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and creativity needed to succeed in the field of architecture.

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Architecture program is a three-year full-time course that combines design studio, technical skills, history/theory, and professional engagement. The program is structured around six core modules in the first year, five core modules and one option module in the second year, and five core modules, including a 20-credit dissertation and a 40-credit integrated design project, in the third year.

Year 1

In the first year, students will study six core modules, including:

• Architectural Design 1: Introduction to Architectural Design [self-space-presence]
• Architectural Design 2: Introduction to Architectural Design [community-place-time]
• Architectural Humanities 1: Architecture in Settlements and Cities
• Design Technology 1: Principles of Structure and Construction
• Environment and Citizenship 1: Introduction to Wicked Problems
• Studio and Professional Skills 1: Demystifying York - Analogue Communication

Year 2

In the second year, students will study five core modules and one option module, including:

• Architectural Design 3: Dwelling
• Architectural Design 4: Retrofitting
• Architectural Humanities 2: Architecture in Settlements and Cities
• Design Technology 2: Advanced Technology Applications
• Studio and Professional Skills 2: Public Engagement, Analogue, Parametric and Digital Communication
• Option module: York Interdisciplinary Module (YIM)

Year 3

In the third year, students will study five core modules, including:

• Architectural Design 5: Architecture Clinic
• Architectural Design 6: Integrated Design
• Design Technology 3: Specialisation and Innovation in Building Construction
• Studio and Professional Skills 3: Practice Management and Exhibition
• Dissertation: Architects in context: Research-led enquiries into architects, culture and practice

Fees and Funding

The annual tuition fees for the BA (Hons) Architecture program are:

• UK (home): £9,535
• International and EU: £27,500

Teaching and Assessment

The program is taught through a combination of conventional lectures, practical workshops, and immersive design studio sessions. Assessment is primarily through portfolio assessment, with students submitting a comprehensive portfolio of their work at the end of each year.

Careers and Skills

The BA (Hons) Architecture program provides a foundation for a wide range of career paths, including:

• Architect
• Architectural Designer
• Architectural Illustrator
• Architectural Journalist or Critic
• Architectural Technologist
• Architecture Educator
• Building Information Modelling (BIM) Manager
• Design Manager
• Environmental Consultant
• Historic Preservation Specialist
• Interior Designer
• Landscape Architect
• Planning Consultant
• Project Manager
• Researcher in Architecture and Built Environment
• Sustainability Consultant
• Urban Designer

Entry Requirements

The typical offer for the BA (Hons) Architecture program is:

• A levels: AAB
• Access to Higher Education Diploma: 36 credits at Distinction and 9 credits at Merit or higher
• BTEC National Extended Diploma: DDD
• European Baccalaureate: 80% overall
• International Baccalaureate: 35 points
• T levels: We will consider a range of T Level qualifications for entry
• Scottish Highers / Advanced Highers: Scottish Highers - AABBB Advanced Highers - not required for entry
• Other international qualifications: Equivalent qualifications from your country

Additional Requirements

We require GCSE Mathematics at grade 5 (B) or equivalent. Your application will be reviewed, and if you meet our entry criteria, you'll be invited to an interview and also to submit a digital portfolio.

Accreditation

The BA Architecture course will be applying for RIBA validation for Part 1, which is the first of 3 stages of qualification to become a qualified architect. The course has been designed incorporating the RIBA professional criteria. Our course documents will be submitted to the RIBA, and we will be seeking to be considered as a candidate course so that we can apply for validation for the first cohort who will graduate in 2028.