What is Architecture?

‘Architecture involves everything that influences the way in which the built environment is planned, designed, made, used, furnished, landscaped and maintained’

 

Why study Architecture at SETU Waterford

If you are a creative person who would like to be part of designing a better world you might like studying architecture. In SETU Waterford we are interested in sustainability, rural and urban landscapes; conservation and working with local communities. We are located in the City Centre campus at the Granary, opposite Garter Lane Arts Centre and not far from brilliant surfing beaches and the Comeragh Mountains.

 

The quality of life is good and affordable in Waterford. We are less than 2 hours form both Dublin and Cork. Our strong international links see many students from around the world coming to study with us. Our staff to student ratios are low ensuring dedicated time for each student. We have also introduced a work placement module which is unique in Ireland.  You can take our programme part time or full time.

 

We have a strong Alumni who support each other and keep in touch with us. We are very proud of the SETU Waterford Architectural Community which we have helped to create.

 

What is the Bachelor of Architecture (Hons)?

It is a 5-year honours degree course, designed in accordance with national and international guidelines on architectural education. The B.Arch.(hons) in SETU Waterford was the first outside of Dublin to receive full accreditation by the Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland (RIAI) in 2005. It is also recognized under European Directive 2005/36/EC. Studying architecture in an accredited programme is the first step towards becoming a registered professional architect.

 

Architectural education at SETU Waterford is primarily about developing within each student a ‘design mind’ so that they can bring together in a creative way the complex challenges facing the future world of construction. Students are introduced to design methodologies and work in a ‘learning through doing’ environment in the studio where they explore architectural designs growing in complexity as they progress through the various years. Students learn the importance of culture, climate and craft in developing design ideas. Feeding into these studio-based projects are the supporting subjects grouped under the generic headings of ‘Cultural Context’, ‘Communications’, ‘Technology & the Environment’ and a suite of electives including Work Placement.