MArch Architecture at Birmingham City University

Programme overview

This course is in the process of being revalidated to keep it up to date with current practice and content may be subject to change. Located in our multidisciplinary studio and workshop spaces in Birmingham’s Eastside, the MArch meets and exceeds professional criteria defined by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and Architects Registration Board (ARB).

Faculty: Faculty of Arts, Design and Media | Department: Architecture, Art and Design, Construction and the Built Environment | Duration: 2 years full-time | Study mode: full-time | Intake: September 2027 | Location: Birmingham, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Recognised by the Architects Registration Board and RIBA for exemption from Part II examination, the course is stage two of your professional development programme to become an architect. The programme goes beyond the professional body criteria, giving you a stimulating and dynamic educational experience of architecture at postgraduate level. You’ll study in a design studio-led research environment and you will be able to create architectural designs that meet necessary technical requirements while still having aesthetic appeal. Modules include Advanced Praxis, Research Principles, Material Practices, Co.Lab II, Architectural Thesis, Negotiated Practice, Special Study.

Career pathways

Upon completing the MArch, you'll be able to produce complex design proposals showing an understanding of current architectural issues. You'll also have sound knowledge of procurement, building production and legislation.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have a minimum of a 2:1 honours degree, or equivalent, in Architecture and at least nine months of post-undergraduate professional practice experience. Applicants will also need to prepare a critical self-appraisal. See 'additional information' below. Architecture with RIBA Part 1 exemption: In exceptional circumstances, applications from students without RIBA Part 1 will be considered subject to prior equivalent academic and practical experience, but the honours degree must be in Architecture due to the prescribed and validated nature of the programme. Evidence of satisfactory completion of at least nine months of practical training is normally required for acceptance on the full-time course. Should applicants have difficulty in accessing conventional practical experience, the Admissions team will consider evidence of initiative in finding alternative experience, through voluntary work, competitions, work in associated fields of the construction and design industries and self-generated work.

Domestic applicants: GBP 10,050 a year (2027/28). full-time, 2 years; annual tuition for the first year of study Source

International applicants: GBP 19,630 a year (2027/28). full-time, 2 years; annual tuition for the first year of study Source

Intake: September 2027

Duration: 2 years full-time

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