The United Kingdom provides world-class education facilities to learn Architecture. It also allows students to combine courses according to their liking and needs. With the option to tailor their courses based on their interests, the UK has become the ultimate paradise, particularly for international students. Architecture, a complex profession, needs time and patience to master fully. Thus, the UK universities and colleges provide a five-year study for Architecture and two years of practical work experience before appearing for final exams.
Why is the UK Famous for Architecture Courses?
Architecture courses involve studying in-depth about technology, design, culture, and historical elements. In the UK, it is such that history and theory are taught alongside art and 3D design. This allows international students to follow the best approach in learning about each subject.
The UK universities and colleges provide Architecture courses that last up to 7 years. The first five years are for studying while the last two are for training and practical work. After completing the course, students will become official members of RIBA, i.e. the Royal Institute of British Architects.
Thus, the UK is famous for its education in Architecture. It provides students with every aspect of training in Architecture without making it overbearing.
Architecture Entry Requirements
To enrol in any college or university in the UK, one must have studied science or maths, humanities, and arts subjects in secondary school. Every college in the UK provides different criteria for education. Given below are some standard eligibility requirements that one must have:
- Minimum 60% marks in secondary school
- Documents supporting your academic qualifications
- Proof of financial support
- Statement of Purpose
- Proof of English proficiency by giving exams like IELTS or TOEFL
- Letter of recommendation
- Resume of skills and other qualifications
Top Universities for Architecture Courses
The United Kingdom is home to some of the top universities in the world. Another reason why the United Kingdom is one of the sorts after places to study architecture is that the country is known for its cultural diversity and aesthetic buildings that showcase architectural brilliance. Being in a place like this can inspire you and help you become a better architect.
Some of the top universities for Architecture according to World Rankings:
- University of Cambridge
- UCL
- The University of Edinburgh
- Lancaster University
- The University of Manchester
- The University of Sheffield
- University of Glasgow
- University of Nottingham
- University of Leeds
- University of Exeter
Popular Architecture Courses in the UK
Even though the UK is famous for all its courses due to its universal education standards, some courses in Architecture have gained more traction from students compared to the rest.
Some of the top universities in the UK and their course details are detailed below.
University of Cambridge
- MPhil Degree in Architecture and Urban Design (MAUD) – ARB/ RIBA Pt2
- Postgraduate Certificate in Professional Practice in Architecture – ARB/ RIBA Pt3
- MPhil in Architecture & Urban Studies (MAUS)
- Ph.D. in Architecture
- MSt in Interdisciplinary Design for the Built Environment – (part-time)
- MSc in Building History – (part-time)
University of Sheffield
- BA Architecture (RIBA Part 1)
- BA Architecture and Landscape (RIBA and LI Pt 1)
- MEng Structural Engineering and Architecture (RIBA Pt 1, IStructE, and ICE)
- Master of Architecture Programs (ARB/RIBA Pt 2) that include: MArch Architecture, MArch Architecture, and Landscape Architecture
- March Architecture (Collaborative Practice)
Loughborough University
- Architecture BArch (Hons)
- Architectural Engineering & Design Management BSc (Hons)
University of Edinburgh
- BA/MA Architecture
- MA Landscape Architecture
- MEng Structural Engineering with Architecture
- BEng Structural Engineering with Architecture
- Architecture MscR
- Landscape Architecture MLA
- Landscape Architecture Ph.D., MPhil
- MA Architectural History and Heritage
- BA Interior Design
- BEng Civil Engineering
- MEng Civil Engineering
University of Liverpool
- Architecture BA
- Architecture BA (Design Studies)
- Architecture MArch
- Architecture MA
- Arts: Architecture MRes
- Building Information Modelling (BIM) MSc
- Digital Integrated Design MSc
- Master of Architecture MArch
- Sustainable Environmental Design in Architecture (SEDA)
- MSc Advanced Transdisciplinary Design
Cardiff University
- MA in Urban Design
- PgDip in Architecture: Professional Practice (Part 3)
- MA Architectural Design
- Master of Design Administration (MDA)
- MSc in Environmental Design of Buildings (local and distance learning)
- MSc in Sustainable Mega Buildings
- MSc in Sustainable Building Conservation
- MSc in Building Diagnostics for Energy and Environmental Performance
University of Newcastle
- Bachelor of Design Architecture
- Master of Architecture
- Project Management
- Disaster Resilience & Sustainable Development
- Disaster Risk Reduction
Architecture Course Fees in the UK for International Students
Fees of various architecture courses in the UK vary with the type of course and college. It can range anywhere from USD 11,000 – to USD 61,000. International students can apply for various scholarship programs and student discounts and enjoy their advantages.
| 1 | University of Cambridge | £30,537 |
| 2 | University College London | £26,600 |
| 3 | University of Edinburgh | £28,950 |
| 4 | Manchester School of Architecture | £25,500 |
| 5 | University of Sheffield | £24,950 |
| 6 | University of Nottingham | £21,060 |
| 7 | Newcastle University | £23,400 |
| 8 | Cardiff University | £23,450 |
| 9 | University of Bath | £15,655 |
| 10 | University of Liverpool | £20,300 |
| 11 | University of Reading | £24,500 |
Student Visa Process for Architecture in the UK
A student applying for a visa to study in the UK must be 16 years or above. They must apply at least three months before their course starts. This way, they will get to know the results in approximately eight weeks. Once a student receives their visa, they can stay in the UK for as long as their course lasts. Note the following essential documents a student must possess to apply for a visa to study in the UK:
- Proof of money to support the student and pay for the course
- Ability to speak, read, write and understand English
- Parents' consent if the student is under 18
Jobs & Salary for Architecture in the UK
Architecture has a lot of potential, particularly in the United Kingdom. Thousands of international students apply to study Architecture each year. Furthermore, British architecture is revered worldwide and inspires thousands of students to pursue it as a career.
Graduates will find jobs in architectural design, engineering and construction, preservation, and urban planning after completing the seven years of study required to become a registered architect.
- The average starting salary for a professional is £20,000.
- The average starting salary for a non-professional is £16,640.
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