UNIVERSITY OF STRATHCLYDE · UNITED KINGDOM
Advanced Architectural Design MArch / PgDip
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- RIBA, ARB (Part 2) AccreditationAccreditation
- UK University of the Year 2026Awards
- Scottish University of the Year 2026Awards
- Opportunity for UK and overseas study tripsTravel
- Option to convert Diploma to MArchDegree Structure
- £6,000 automatic award for eligible international studentsScholarships
This postgraduate program offers two routes: a Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip) in Advanced Architectural Design, designed for UK/EU graduates seeking Part 2 professional qualification, and a Master of Architecture (MArch) for international students, also leading to ARB/RIBA Part 2 exemption. The MArch route is a two-year, full-time course that allows you to explore architecture broadly through theoretical and practical work, demanding high design ability and self-motivation. You will investigate current theoretical approaches to architecture and urban design, develop formal and technical skills, and have the opportunity to convert your PgDip into an MArch with an additional three months of study. The program emphasizes critical, formal, and technical development within a collaborative studio environment, with opportunities for UK and overseas study trips and potentially study abroad, subject to visa conditions.
Curriculum
The curriculum is structured over two years, with Year 1 focusing on consolidating design skills and introducing architecture's role in addressing social issues. Year 2 involves an architectural project reflecting your interests, alongside taught courses in professional studies and guest lectures. Study trips explore urban and rural environments, and students can participate in prestigious design competitions.
- Year 1
- Design Studies 4A – To Care (Part 1)
- Design Studies 4B – To Care (Part 2)
- Architecture & The City
- Special Study Project 4 (Elective)
- Environmental Design Refresher (Elective)
- Indoor Environmental Quality, Health & Built Environment (Elective)
- Mass Timber (Elective)
- Passivhaus Design (Elective)
- Retrofit & Renovation (Elective)
- Urban Design (Elective)
- Design modes - regenerative, sufficiency & bio-inspired principles (Elective)
- Year 2
- Design Studies
- Cultural Studies 5
- Professional Studies 5
- Special Study Project 5 (Elective)
Frequently asked questions
- What qualifications does the Advanced Architectural Design programme offer?
- The programme offers a Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip) for UK/EU graduates seeking Part 2 professional qualification and a Master of Architecture (MArch) for international students, both leading to ARB/RIBA Part 2 exemption.
- How long is the MArch programme for international students?
- The MArch route is a two-year, full-time course.
- What is the curriculum structure?
- Year 1 focuses on design skills and social issues, while Year 2 involves an architectural project, taught courses, and guest lectures. Study trips are also included.
- Are there any scholarships available for international students?
- Yes, eligible international students can receive a £6,000 automatic award, and exceptional applicants may be considered for Excellence Awards of up to £12,000.
- What are the career outcomes for graduates?
- The programme leads to ARB/RIBA Part 2 exemption, which is a step towards professional registration as an architect in the UK.
- Does the programme have any accreditations?
- The programme is validated by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) (Part 2) and accredited by the Architect’s Registration Board (ARB) for eligibility for registration.
Entry requirements
Overseas qualificationsMay require passing the ARB’s Examination for Equivalence to Prescribed Qualifications (Prescribed Examination) to obtain ARB Part 1 and progress towards registration as an architect in the UK. This is not guaranteed and incurs a financial cost.
The PgDip in Advanced Architectural Design is for UK/EU architecture graduates seeking Part 2 professional qualification. The MArch in Advanced Architectural Design is for UK, European, and international students seeking ARB/RIBA Part 2 exemption.
Fees
Tuition (international)—
Tuition (home)—
Living—
Scholarships
International Student Scholarship£6,000
Excellence AwardsUp to £12,000
Scottish Student ScholarshipFull tuition fee funding
Accreditation
Validated by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) (Part 2) and accredited by the Architect’s Registration Board (ARB) for the purpose of eligibility for registration.
Frequently asked questions
What qualifications does the Advanced Architectural Design programme offer?
+
The programme offers a Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip) for UK/EU graduates seeking Part 2 professional qualification and a Master of Architecture (MArch) for international students, both leading to ARB/RIBA Part 2 exemption.
How long is the MArch programme for international students?
+
The MArch route is a two-year, full-time course.
What is the curriculum structure?
+
Year 1 focuses on design skills and social issues, while Year 2 involves an architectural project, taught courses, and guest lectures. Study trips are also included.
Are there any scholarships available for international students?
+
Yes, eligible international students can receive a £6,000 automatic award, and exceptional applicants may be considered for Excellence Awards of up to £12,000.
What are the career outcomes for graduates?
+
The programme leads to ARB/RIBA Part 2 exemption, which is a step towards professional registration as an architect in the UK.
Does the programme have any accreditations?
+
The programme is validated by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) (Part 2) and accredited by the Architect’s Registration Board (ARB) for eligibility for registration.