Manchester Metropolitan University campus

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MArch Master of Architecture at Manchester Metropolitan University

Manchester Metropolitan University, United Kingdom

Programme overview

What kind of architect do you want to be in a world shaped by climate challenges, technological change and evolving social needs? The Master of Architecture (MArch) at Manchester School of Architecture is designed for ambitious graduates who want to go beyond established practice and help define the future of the profession. As the final stage of formal academic architectural education leading towards professional registration, this course develops independent, leadership-ready architects equipped to challenge convention and create meaningful change.

Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Humanities  |  Department: Manchester School of Architecture  |  Duration: 2 years full-time  |  Study mode: full-time  |  Intake: September 2027  |  Location: Manchester, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

The Master of Architecture (MArch) at Manchester School of Architecture (MSA) is the final stage of formal academic architectural education leading towards professional registration and is designed to develop architects who can lead, innovate and respond to the complex challenges facing the built environment. Combining research-led design, critical thinking and professional practice, the course encourages students to become independent thinkers capable of shaping the future of architecture. Year 1 core: Architect As Researcher, Architect in Collaboration, Architect in Practice, Architect in Studio: Resolution, Architect in Studio: Strategy. Year 2 core: Atelier Innovation, Atelier Exploration, Dissertation.

Career pathways

Many graduates and alumni work as architects in private practice, in roles such as Architectural Assistant, Project Architect, or Associate Architect. The skills and attributes developed at Manchester School of Architecture, including design thinking, visual communication, problem-solving, technical knowledge, collaboration, and project management, can be applied across roles within and beyond the built environment.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

You will normally have at least an upper second class undergraduate UK honours degree in architecture from a RIBA School. A portfolio of work and personal statement should be submitted with your application. Your digital portfolio of work (maximum of 35 pages) should be submitted with your application and should ideally include a table of contents with information regarding the duration of each project and in which academic year/level it was completed (predominantly from your third year), some design process, design strategy, design resolution and technical strategy and resolution plus a selection of projects worked on. Equivalent EU/international qualifications will also be considered. Applicants who do not meet these criteria will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Other professional qualifications or degree disciplines will be considered on merit and/or with relevant professional experience. Overseas applicants will require IELTS with an overall score of 6.5 with no less than 6.5 in any category, or an equivalent accepted English qualification. Application requirements are subject to PSRB requirements. See How to Apply for details. Accepted English qualifications can be viewed here. Alternative Route Entry. The Manchester School of Architecture (MSA) acknowledges that students can excel at different stages of their educational journey. As such, we will consider applications from individuals who did not achieve an upper-second-class or first-class degree in Architecture, provided they can demonstrate the following: A minimum of two full years of work experience in an architectural practice or a related design field. An employer reference that explicitly states the length of employment. Only practical experience completed in increments of at least three months will be considered. Additional relevant experience, such as participation in design competitions, travel, or other creative pursuits that demonstrate architectural engagement. A comprehensive CV outlining professional activities. A personal statement of approximately 500 words detailing personal and professional progress since completing their undergraduate degree. Applications must include a CV, a statement, and a small selection of a design portfolio. Failure to include these supporting documents will result in the application not being considered. Applicants shortlisted for consideration will be invited to attend an interview.

Intake: September 2027

Duration: 2 years full-time

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