About the course

Reasons to study

1. This course is prescribed by the Architects Registration Board (ARB) and validated by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA).
2. You could opt to go on an extended field trip overseas to countries such as Vietnam, Malaysia and China.
3. Learn in the state of the art £30m Barbara Hepworth Building with access to 3D printers, laser cutters, virtual reality and motion tracking sensors, studio space and more.

Architecture asks questions regarding speculative constructs and designed realities to build possible new futures. Our students and staff critically examine the rich possibilities of the built environment. From design and materials to culture and experience, on a regional and international stage. We promote an imaginative, rigorous, and forward-thinking approach to help shape the future of the architectural profession.

You can look at examples of our students' work here

Architecture or Architecture International?

There are two strands to the course; Architecture and Architecture International. In the final year of the course, you can opt for a Home or International Design Studio. Both have a distinctive approach to the subject, allowing you to explore different cultural regions. The environmental and social nature of the course means that you’ll experience ideas and influences that are as diverse as they are creative.

Why study Architecture?

• There’s never been a more interesting, or important time to be an architect. The design of beautiful, practical and efficient buildings for individuals, businesses and communities around the world is of greater and greater importance as we face the demands and challenges of the future. A future which, in many ways, is uncertain, as we tackle social, cultural and climatic changes (emergencies) globally that will inevitably affect the way in which we interact with each other and with our planet.
• Upon graduating you'd be able to work in a wide range of architectural practices and could be sought after for your practical ability and creative flair. You’ll be well prepared to work in a professional environment and ready to progress to the next stage of your architectural career.
• The course is recognised by the Architects Registration Board (ARB), the body that regulates the architects’ profession in the UK. Good news if you’re planning to continue on to be an architect, as you have to register with the ARB to be able to practise under the title of ‘architect’ in the UK.

Our course is also validated by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). In fact, if you graduate, you’ll then gain exemption from RIBA’s Part 1 Professional Examinations. We offer RIBA Part 1, 2 and 3 qualifications here at Huddersfield.

If you choose to take the International option in your final year, the extended field trip is compulsory and you’ll have to fund your own place. Just to give you an idea, the average cost of the trip in the past few years has been around £1,400 per student. Recent visits have included Vietnam, Malaysia, India and China.*

*See 'Additional Costs' under 'Fees and Finance' section

Entry requirements

AAB-BBBat A Level or equivalent (in Art, Design or Construction)†

136-120UCAS tariff points from a combination of Level 3 qualifications.

Meritat T Level.

DDD-DDMin BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma (Art, Design or Construction)†

Access to Higher Education Diploma with 45 Level 3 credits at Merit or above. 136-120 UCAS tariff points from International Baccalaureate qualifications. Pass in Diploma Foundation Studies in Art and Design combined with A Level or BTEC National qualifications, to total an equivalent of 136-120 UCAS tariff points.

† These subjects are preferred but not essential. Applicants without Level 3 Art, Design or Construction qualifications will need to demonstrate their skills/experience in Art, Design or Construction through their portfolio and/or at interview.

As a centre of creative excellence, we look forward to hearing about your own creative experiments and ambitions through a discussion of your portfolio at interview. Your portfolio should contain 10 to 15 pieces of your work which demonstrate a range of creative skills, including 2D and 3D drawing and model making/sculpture. We like to see developmental and sketched material as well as final pieces.

Read our guidance on developing your portfolio and what to expect from your interview.

Applicants to Architecture courses can come from a very broad range of backgrounds, so other experiences or qualifications will be considered and are encouraged.

If your first language is not English, you will need to meet the minimum requirements of an English Language qualification. The minimum for IELTS is 6.0 overall with no element lower than 5.5, or equivalent. Read more about the University’s entry requirements for students outside of the UK on our Where are you from information pages.

Other suitable experience or qualifications will be considered. For further information please see the University's minimum entry requirements.