BIRMINGHAM CITY UNIVERSITY · UNITED KINGDOM
Architecture - BA (Hons)
Bachelor's · Taught in en · UCAS K100
At a glance
36 mo
Duration
6.0
IELTS
€19k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Bachelor's
Level
- RIBA and ARB validatedAccreditation
- Optional Professional Placement yearWork Experience
- £62 million Parkside BuildingFacilities
- Co.LAB collaborative projectsPractical Learning
- Birmingham City Centre CampusLocation
- Exemption from RIBA Part 1Professional Pathway
The BA (Hons) Architecture program at Birmingham City University is designed to cultivate innovative thinkers and future leaders in architecture. It emphasizes architecture as a 'radical act of care' and explores its role beyond just constructing buildings, delving into how it shapes human experience, memory, and aspirations. Students will study in the state-of-the-art Parkside Building at the City Centre Campus. This course is fully validated by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and prescribed by the Architects Registration Board (ARB), granting exemption from the RIBA Part 1 Prescribed Examination upon successful completion, a crucial step towards becoming a registered architect in the UK.
Careers
Graduates from this program are well-prepared for further study towards becoming a registered architect or for diverse postgraduate studies within the built environment. The annual Graduate Show attracts leading architectural practices, providing excellent recruitment opportunities.
- Architectural Assistant
- Designer
- Urban Planner (with further study)
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition fees for international students for the BA (Hons) Architecture program?
- The tuition fee for international students for the 2026/27 entry is £16,900 per year. This fee covers everyday tuition and examination costs, but not textbooks or other course materials.
- What are the English language requirements for international applicants?
- International applicants typically need an IELTS Academic score of 6.0 overall with no band less than 5.5. Other accepted tests include TOEFL iBT (80 overall) and PTE Academic (59 overall with minimum 59 in all components).
- How do I apply for the BA (Hons) Architecture program as an international student?
- International students generally apply through UCAS. The application process involves registering with UCAS, completing the application form, providing a referee, paying the application fee, and submitting supporting documents like transcripts and English language test results.
- What are the key deadlines for applying to the program?
- Applications typically open in early September for the next academic year. The advised on-time application deadline is around the 1st of October in the year prior to entry.
- Does this program offer any exemptions or accreditations that help with professional practice?
- Yes, this course is fully validated by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and prescribed by the Architects Registration Board (ARB). Successful completion grants exemption from the RIBA Part 1 Prescribed Examination, a key step towards becoming a registered architect in the UK.
- Are there any scholarships available for international students in this program?
- Yes, merit/financial aid undergraduate scholarships are available for this course and vary in amount. You can find more information and apply through the university's scholarships page for international undergraduate students.
Entry requirements
A-LevelsSpecific grades usually including Art, Design, or a related subject. Please check the course page for the most current entry profile.
International BaccalaureateSpecific points with subjects at Higher Level. Please check the course page for the most current entry profile.
IELTS AcademicOverall 6.0 with no band less than 5.5
TOEFL iBT80 overall with minimum scores in each component (e.g., L17, W17, R18, S20)
PTE Academic59 overall with minimum 59 in all components
Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE)Grade C (169-179)
The university accepts a range of equivalent international qualifications. If your qualification is not listed, please contact the international admissions team.
Fees
Tuition (international)£16,900 per year (2026/27 entry)
Tuition (home)£9,250 per year (2026/27 entry)
LivingEstimated at £12,000 per year, covering accommodation, food, transport, and personal expenses. This amount is required for visa purposes.
Tuition fees cover everyday tuition, examination costs, and Students’ Union membership. They do not cover textbooks or other course materials. A professional placement year incurs fees equivalent to 20% of the total full-time course fee for that year.
How to apply
1. 1. Register with UCASGo to the UCAS website (ucas.com/ucas/conservatoires is mentioned in the Music specific guide, but generally ucas.com for undergraduates). Enter your personal details, including name, date of birth, and address. A username will be generated, and you will choose a password. Keep these safe.
2. 2. Complete your applicationLog in to UCAS and fill in your application form. There are full instructions on the UCAS website to assist you. You can save your progress and return later. Applications must be in English. For UK applicants, 'Royal Birmingham Conservatoire' is selected as the assessment method (this might vary for other departments, but the general UCAS process applies).
3. 3. Provide a refereeYou will need to provide contact details for one referee who can comment on your academic ability. This should not be a family member or friend. UCAS will contact your referee directly if a reference is required.
4. 4. Pay application feesThere is a one-off UCAS application fee (currently £28.95). Payment can be made online via credit or debit card. Ensure you have the cardholder's consent if it's not your own card.
5. 5. Submit Supporting DocumentsPrepare and submit any required supporting documents. This typically includes academic transcripts, English language test results, and a personal statement. Specific requirements will be detailed by UCAS or the university after your application.
Scholarships
Undergraduate scholarshipsVaries
Accreditation
This course is validated by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and prescribed by the Architects Registration Board (ARB). Successful completion grants exemption from the RIBA Part 1 Prescribed Examination.
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for international students for the BA (Hons) Architecture program?
+
The tuition fee for international students for the 2026/27 entry is £16,900 per year. This fee covers everyday tuition and examination costs, but not textbooks or other course materials.
What are the English language requirements for international applicants?
+
International applicants typically need an IELTS Academic score of 6.0 overall with no band less than 5.5. Other accepted tests include TOEFL iBT (80 overall) and PTE Academic (59 overall with minimum 59 in all components).
How do I apply for the BA (Hons) Architecture program as an international student?
+
International students generally apply through UCAS. The application process involves registering with UCAS, completing the application form, providing a referee, paying the application fee, and submitting supporting documents like transcripts and English language test results.
What are the key deadlines for applying to the program?
+
Applications typically open in early September for the next academic year. The advised on-time application deadline is around the 1st of October in the year prior to entry.
Does this program offer any exemptions or accreditations that help with professional practice?
+
Yes, this course is fully validated by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and prescribed by the Architects Registration Board (ARB). Successful completion grants exemption from the RIBA Part 1 Prescribed Examination, a key step towards becoming a registered architect in the UK.
Are there any scholarships available for international students in this program?
+
Yes, merit/financial aid undergraduate scholarships are available for this course and vary in amount. You can find more information and apply through the university's scholarships page for international undergraduate students.