About the Department
Overview
The Department of Architecture and Built Environment is a leading centre for research and teaching with excellent facilities and a wide range of research and taught programmes.
Set in its own green mini-campus on the beautiful University Park Campus, the Department of Architecture and Built Environment comprises the Institutes of Architecture, Building Technology, Urban Planning and Sustainable Energy Technology.
The Department focuses on interdisciplinary teaching and research in the fields of architecture, history and theory, building technology, sustainable and renewable technologies and urban design. It offers a range of cutting-edge undergraduate and postgraduate courses in these professional disciplines.
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Teaching
The Department was rated 'excellent' in the latest independent assessment of teaching quality. Subjects are taught in small groups through tutorials, seminars, workshops, computer laboratory classes, 'criticism' presentations, and individual teaching. Visiting critics, tutors and lecturers of international repute contribute to the wealth of expertise in the Department.
Along with traditional architectural skills, we aim to develop vocational skills and environmentally responsible attitudes in a rapidly changing world. You will gain a broad grounding in design thinking, analysis, awareness of environmental issues, and multimedia communication of ideas.
We offer excellent facilities including state-of-the-art labs, a Sustainable Research Building, and hi-tech studios. Both the Marmont Centre for Renewable Energy, the David Wilson Millennium Eco-House and the new creative energy dwellings on University Park demonstrate use of renewable energy technologies and their integration with architectural design.
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Assessment & Progression
A variety of assessment methods are used throughout all courses, combining coursework and formal examinations with CAD assignments, presentations, class-based exercises, laboratory work, projects, etc. Architecture-based courses will produce portfolios of studio work/projects.
The Department has strong links with UK and international companies, giving our graduates excellent prospects for employment, research training and professional recognition.
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Professional Recognition
The BArch (K100) and MEng (K230) courses are both currently recognised by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA ) and the Architects' Registration Board (ARB ) for exemption from their Part 1 professional examination.
The Diploma in Architecture (DipArch) is recognised by the RIBA and ARB for Part 2 professional accreditation. The Department also runs a successful accredited ARB/RIBA Part 3 Professional Practice course offered on a part-time basis to complete the training to become a fully qualified architect.
The BEng (K240) and MEng (K230) courses are both accredited by CIBSE (Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers), as well as a number of postgraduate MSc courses.
The BA Sustainable Built Environment course (KF28) is accredited by the Association of Building Engineers (ABE ).
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Selection
Undergraduate course applications should be made through UCAS. Applicants who receive an offer of a place will be invited to attend a UCAS Visit Day. This is an opportunity to see the campus and join University presentations on general topics such as accommodation, finance, etc as well as a chance to visit the Department and find out more about the course. We hold a number of visit days between January and March each year, in addition to the University Open Days in June and September.
Applications for the two-year Diploma in Architecture course should be made directly to the Department (please see the Diploma Admissions page for further details).
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