PGDip Advanced Architectural Design at University of Strathclyde

Programme overview

A postgraduate diploma for UK/EU architecture graduates seeking the ARB/RIBA Part 2 professional qualification, exploring architecture through theoretical and practical design work. It is validated by RIBA (Part 2) and accredited by the Architects Registration Board, and can be converted to the MArch with an extra three months of study where all diploma credits are obtained at first sitting.

What you will study

Year 1 consolidates architectural design skills, with compulsory Design Studies 4A and 4B (To Care), Architecture & The City, and a dissertation topic, plus electives such as Mass Timber, Passivhaus Design, Retrofit & Renovation and Urban Design. Year 2 centres on a self-directed architectural project, with Design Studies, Cultural Studies 5 and Professional Studies 5, and elective Special Study Project 5. Study trips in the UK and overseas are available.

Career pathways

Graduates work in large multidisciplinary practices and smaller specialist firms across the world, and some set up their own practices.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Normally a first-class or second-class honours degree in Architecture. Applicants with overseas qualifications obtained outside the EU, or a non-recognised UK qualification, must pass ARB's Examination for Equivalence to Prescribed Qualifications (Prescribed Examination) to obtain ARB Part 1 and progress towards registering as an architect in the UK. An academic portfolio containing relevant design work from previous study is required. University standard for postgraduate taught study: IELTS (Academic) 6.5 overall with no individual band below 5.5, unless the course sets its own requirement; other accepted English tests such as TOEFL and PTE Academic are recognised.

Intake: September

Duration: 21 months full-time (9 months full-time for students entering Year 2)

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