UNIVERSITY COLLEGE LONDON · UNITED KINGDOM
Light and Lighting MSc
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
12 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
€45k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- Ranked #1 globally for Architecture and Built Environment studies (QS World University Rankings 2025).Global Ranking
- Access to state-of-the-art facilities, including The Bartlett Lighting Simulator and advanced modelling tools.Facilities
- Study in London, a major hub for engineering and architecture firms, offering real-world learning opportunities.Location
- Industry-led curriculum informed by leading companies and an industry advisory board.Industry Relevance
- Focus on sustainable design and human well-being in the built environment.Sustainability & Well-being
- Taught by academic experts at UCL's Bartlett Faculty, known for world-leading research.Expert Faculty
UCL offers a comprehensive Master of Science (MSc) degree in Light and Lighting, uniquely combining the technical and creative aspects of daylighting and artificial lighting design. This program equips you with extensive knowledge and skills essential for a career as a lighting professional within the built environment. You will learn to integrate lighting design as a core component of architecture, leveraging scientific and technological advancements while considering the human response to lit spaces. The curriculum emphasizes designing beautiful and functional lit environments that enhance user well-being, supported by strong engineering principles. You'll join a diverse cohort of students exploring pioneering and sustainable approaches to lighting design, operation, and research.
Curriculum
The MSc program covers the fundamentals of lighting science, design, and technology. You will explore topics ranging from natural daylight and lamp technologies to human responses to light and advanced computational design tools. The curriculum also provides historical context and delves into current research in lighting, sustainability, health, and well-being, ensuring you are prepared for contemporary challenges.
- 1
- Fundamentals of Lighting
- Lighting Technologies and Design Calculations
- Human Response to Lit Environments
- Advanced Design Techniques (Conceptual & Detailed)
- Luminaire Product Design
- Mathematical Models and Physical Concepts for Illumination
- Multi-sensory Experience of Built Environment
- Lighting Control System Design
- Computational Design Tools (e.g., Rhinoceros 3D, Grasshopper 3D, Ladybug, Honeybee, Climate Studio, DIALux)
- Evolution of Lighting Design and Innovation
- Lighting Practice, Regulations, and Standards
- Current Research in Lighting, Sustainability, Health and Wellbeing
Careers
This program provides a strong foundation for a career in lighting. Graduates are prepared for roles in lighting design, luminaire manufacturing, and within architectural or engineering firms, driving innovation and contributing to well-designed built environments.
- Lighting Designer
- Luminaire Manufacturer
- Lighting Consultant
- Architectural Lighting Specialist
- Lighting Engineer
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition fees for international students?
- For the 2026/27 academic year, international students can expect tuition fees of £39,200 per year for full-time study or £19,600 per year for part-time study. Fees may vary if studying on a modular basis.
- What are the entry requirements for the MSc Light and Lighting programme?
- Applicants generally need a second-class Bachelor's degree from a UK university or an overseas qualification of equivalent standard. Relevant work experience may also be considered. You must also meet the English language requirement, for example, an IELTS Level 2.
- When does the programme start and what are the application deadlines?
- The programme starts in September 2026. Applications open on 20 October 2025, with a deadline of 26 June 2026 for visa applicants and 28 August 2026 for non-visa applicants.
- What career paths can graduates pursue after completing this MSc?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as Lighting Designer, Luminaire Manufacturer, Lighting Consultant, Architectural Lighting Specialist, and Lighting Engineer within the built environment sector.
- Is there any financial support available for international students?
- The provided programme data does not contain information regarding scholarships or financial support for international students.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's degreeA second-class Bachelor's degree from a UK university or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard. Applicants with qualifications in an appropriate field and extensive relevant work experience will also be considered if they do not meet the standard academic requirement. In rare cases, a special qualifying examination may be set for applicants who do not meet the minimum entry threshold and have limited work experience.
IELTSLevel 2
Country-specific equivalencies can be found on the International Students website. UCL Pre-Master's and Pre-sessional English courses are available for students needing to improve their English language proficiency.
Fees
Tuition (international)£39,200 per year (full-time), £19,600 per year (part-time). Modular basis also available.
Tuition (home)£21,500 per year (full-time), £10,750 per year (part-time). Modular basis also available.
Living—
Tuition fees are for the 2026/27 academic year. Fees may vary if studying on a modular basis.
How to apply
1. Check Entry RequirementsEnsure you meet the academic and English language requirements for the MSc program.
2. Prepare Application DocumentsGather necessary documents including academic transcripts, degree certificates, and proof of English language proficiency.
3. Submit Online ApplicationComplete and submit the online application form through the UCL Graduate Admissions portal.
4. Await DecisionApplications are reviewed by the department. Successful applicants will receive an offer.
5. Accept Offer and Prepare for ArrivalOnce an offer is accepted, follow instructions regarding tuition fee payment, visa applications (if applicable), and pre-arrival information.
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for international students?
+
For the 2026/27 academic year, international students can expect tuition fees of £39,200 per year for full-time study or £19,600 per year for part-time study. Fees may vary if studying on a modular basis.
What are the entry requirements for the MSc Light and Lighting programme?
+
Applicants generally need a second-class Bachelor's degree from a UK university or an overseas qualification of equivalent standard. Relevant work experience may also be considered. You must also meet the English language requirement, for example, an IELTS Level 2.
When does the programme start and what are the application deadlines?
+
The programme starts in September 2026. Applications open on 20 October 2025, with a deadline of 26 June 2026 for visa applicants and 28 August 2026 for non-visa applicants.
What career paths can graduates pursue after completing this MSc?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Lighting Designer, Luminaire Manufacturer, Lighting Consultant, Architectural Lighting Specialist, and Lighting Engineer within the built environment sector.
Is there any financial support available for international students?
+
The provided programme data does not contain information regarding scholarships or financial support for international students.