Study MSc in Architecture in UK - A Complete Guide

The UK is a leading country and a well-connected business hub. An MSc in Architecture from the UK ensures top-notch instruction, a luxurious standard of living, and fantastic job prospects. The country has many engineers and architects who have contributed to the growth and development of this industry around the world. 

British universities offer a highly sought-after degree in MSc Architecture, which is held in high regard among students and employers alike. The quality of education provided by these universities is assessed and ranked by reputable platforms such as The Complete University Guide, The Guardian, and QS World University Rankings, based on various subject ranking indicators. Among these rankings, several top universities are identified as leaders in the field of architecture.-

University College London (UCL): UCL is recognized as one of the leading universities in the UK for architecture as it provides a highly ranked MSc program in Architecture, Urbanism, and Building Sciences,. This program comprehensively covers the domains of sustainability, urban design, and building performance, and features a design thesis project as a capstone experience.

Newcastle University: At the postgraduate level, Newcastle University offers a diverse range of architecture courses, each with its own unique specialisations. Among these courses, the Architecture program ranks 6th in The Times/Sunday Times Good University Guide 2019. The program features modular courses that place a strong emphasis on design project work, supplemented by lectures and seminars that examine the conceptual, real-world, and material aspects of architecture. Some of the courses offered by Newcastle University include MSc Advanced Landscape Planning and Management, MSc Advanced Architectural Design, and MSc Urban Planning.

Oxford Brooks University: Oxford Brooks University, a prestigious academic institution in the UK, is renowned for offering a top-notch MSc program in Architecture. The Royal Institute of British Architects has designated Oxford Brooks as the sole provider of the RIBA's Office-Based Examination (OBE) program for Part 1 and 2. The university has achieved a global ranking and reputation for its expertise in diverse areas, including sustainable design, modular buildings, and vernacular architecture. The school of architecture boasts a dedicated studio space that serves as a state-of-the-art facility for postgraduate students.

The University of Sheffield: The University of Sheffield's School of Architecture provides an MSc in Architecture that concentrates on design research, digital fabrication, and sustainable design. The program integrates studio projects, workshops, and lectures to provide a comprehensive educational experience.

The University of Edinburgh: The University of Edinburgh offers an MSc program in Architecture that prioritizes design and research skills, along with interdisciplinary collaboration. The curriculum incorporates studio projects, lectures, and seminars to provide a well-rounded educational experience.

The University of Bath: The University of Bath's Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering presents an MSc in Architecture and Urbanism that highlights sustainable design, urban regeneration, and community engagement. The program incorporates studio projects, seminars, and workshops to deliver a comprehensive educational experience.

Some universities in the UK offer specialisations within the MSc in Architecture programs, such as urban design, sustainable architecture, or digital architecture. These specialisations help you turn your passion into a high-salaried career. The duration of these courses is usually one to two years, depending on whether you study full-time or part-time.

The cost of studying MSc in Architecture in the UK varies depending on the university, but it can range from £15,000 to £30,000 per year. You can get insights on these below.  

• Sustainable Building Design and Engineering (MSc)

• Historic Building Conservation (MSc)

• Geospatial Sciences (Building Information Modelling and Surveying, MSc)

• Architecture and Environmental Design (MSc)

• Building Information Modelling Management and Integrated Digital Delivery MSc

• Architectural Computational MSc 

• Environmental and Architectural Acoustics (MSc) 

Typical modules for courses in this subject include:

• Practice and management

• Architectural design and communication

• People, buildings, landscape

• Technology and environment

• Environmental science for architects

• History and theory of architecture and design

• Sustainable Design

• Buildable, habitable design

• Design Process and Communication

The desire to study abroad remains incomplete unless the university's eligibility criteria for the chosen course are met. These prerequisites are essential standards that students must meet to be considered eligible for their desired course. These standards typically include academic qualifications, proficiency in the English language, a robust resume, and relevant work experience. For instance, the eligibility requirements for pursuing an MSc in Architecture in the UK often include the following:

• Professional portfolio 

• A Bachelor's degree or equivalent

• Good GRE scores

• IELTS score of 6.5 or higher

• Statement of Purpose

• 2-3 Letters of Recommendation

These admissions and eligibility requirements include other prerequisites that may vary from one university to another. You can check them on your university’s official website.

Visionaries with novel ideas about how to design structures where people can live in health and happiness can succeed in the architecture profession. Although it is a competitive sector, if you have the necessary abilities and talent, you could succeed in this highly lucrative industry. Alternatively, you might be able to enter a related field with your skills. 

• Architectural Technologist 

• Conservation Architect 

• Structural Designer 

• Architect

• Production designs for films, theatre and TV

• Interior and Spatial Designer

• Town planner 

• Urban Designer

• Construction Manager 

Now that we are clear about the job prospects after studying MSc in Architecture in UK, you must be wondering about the average salary. Well, the industry offers high salaries to skilled graduates. The demand for architects in the UK is expected to grow in the coming years. The entry-level salaries for architects range from £17,000 to £22,000.

An accomplished architect with over five years of ARB registration may earn between £36,000 and $45,000 per year. Incomes can vary with the size of the practice. In a small practice, a partner or director would make an average of £48,000, whereas, in a huge company, they might make £150,000 or more.

We trust that this information has assisted you in determining your interest in pursuing an MSc in Architecture in the UK. If you require further assistance, please feel free to schedule a complimentary video counselling session with our experienced education counsellors at any of Meridean Overseas Education Consultants' branches. Our team is dedicated to ensuring that your aspiration to study in the UK becomes a reality. We can assist you in shortlisting universities, crafting a compelling SOP, and navigating the visa process. For further inquiries, kindly contact us via email at application02@merdean.org or call us at 1800-1230-00011. We wish you the best of luck in your endeavours!