Architecture (Part II)

A special feature of this course is the unique blend of practice and theory, which underpins the student projects. You’ll study some of your modules alongside students from other art and design disciplines as well as our construction, environmental and engineering degrees. You’ll experience a sharing of knowledge and expertise.

You’ll benefit from being taught by tutors who are experts in their field. Our teaching team have expertise in all areas of architecture and many are active researchers and publishers. In some cases members of the team have run practices and have been involved in building and designing award-winning architecture both domestically and internationally. Workshops and seminars are delivered by award-winning and noted architectural practitioners and academics.

Design activities will take place in our studio, where you’ll have a base. Here you’ll regularly meet your tutors to discuss your project work and review your designs. As well as spending time in the studio and lecture theatres, you’ll learn by accomplishing design briefs, watching demonstrations, working on live projects and live builds with industry professionals. You’ll be encouraged to think creatively and solve problems.

The theory-based modules will help you to deepen your critical understanding of architecture, its context and practice. The final year modules – research methods, dissertation and design thesis – will be a culmination of the knowledge and skills you’ve acquired throughout the course.

Our assessment methods may include coursework, papers, exams, reports and essays – you’ll agree the final assessment criteria with your tutors. You’ll also build up a portfolio of work which demonstrates your knowledge and skills, including presentation materials and 3D artefacts.

Our learning resources are second-to-none. We are one of the few courses to have an in-school design resource centre including an array of support material such as architectural design, history, construction and theory books, monographs and monthly periodicals, as well as a fully updated RIBA technical library and National Building Specification directories. You’ll also have access to computer labs, a model making workshop, 3D workshop and digital print studio.

We have excellent links with the ARB, RIBA and local practices throughout the North West and the UK.

Our Associate Year Out programme currently has a number of students employed by both Architecture and Design practices across the country.

The Architectural Studies Unit at the University has an Advisory Board composed of experts from industry and lay people who are informing the development and fine-tuning of our courses to ensure our graduates are employable and sought after in the market. The Professional Studies module also allows you to strengthen your knowledge of the architect’s role in the process of building through frequent interaction with architectural practitioners in the classroom, in the office and on site.

We also invite local practitioners to attend our regular design reviews or to be guest speakers.