Course overview
The DipArch makes up years five and six of the BArch Bachelor of Architecture course and years six and seven of the MEng Architecture and Environmental Design course and aims to create graduate architects who are well-prepared for a subsequent career in the architectural profession. This aim entails both the development of a core range of key architectural skills and also engagement with the diverse specialist skills and knowledge that are often required for modern architectural practice.
The DipArch is fully validated by the ARB and the RIBA and leads to exemption from Part Two of the three-part qualification programme for professional architects in the UK.
Year one
During the first semester, you can elect to take either practice- or university-based modules. Practice-based modules relate to work experience that students undertake in practice and includes a building case study, a record of architectural practice and critical self-appraisal. University-based modules include a choice of specialist design studios, a related seminar course and a module in architectural research methods. During the second semester you undertake a comprehensive design studio, an architectural technology module and a professional practice course.
Year two
You will join a themed design research studio covering a wide range of architectural themes and knowledge. During the first semester, you undertake a themed design studio, a related seminar and a thesis research project. During the second semester, you develop a self-generated design or written thesis.
Entry requirements
BArch, MEng in Architecture and Environmental Design or other equivalent ARB/RIBA accredited Part One degree; Nottingham graduates must have achieved a minimum 2:2 standard in their first degree and students from other universities, a 2:1 standard.
English language requirements
IELTS 6.0 (no less than 5.5 in any element)
TOEFL iBT 79 (no less than 17 in writing and listening, 18 in reading and 20 in speaking)
Cambridge certificate of proficiency grade B
Alternative qualifications
For details please see alternative qualifications page
Modules
The modules we offer are inspired by the research interests of our staff. They're also shaped by new developments in industry and as a consequence, may change from year to year. The following list is therefore subject to change but should give you a flavour of the modules we offer.
Typical year-one modules
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Management Practice and Law
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Comprehensive Design Project
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Materials, Design and Technology
Typical year-two modules
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Architectural Design 2
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Architectural Design Seminars 2
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Thesis Research Project
Typical optional modules
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Personal Critical Evaluation
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Record of Architectural Practice
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Building Case Study
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Architectural Research Methods
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Architectural Design 1
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Architectural Design Seminars 1
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Diploma Design Thesis
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Diploma Dissertation
Careers
On completing the course, you will have had the opportunity to extend your practical experience and to have developed specialist design knowledge and skills. You will have developed and demonstrated your advanced architectural skills through the production and declaration of a design thesis or demonstrated advanced research and writing through the production of a written thesis. You will have acquired transferable skills including a range of communication skills, team working, self-direction and time management.
Professional recognition
This course is recognised by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and the Architects' Registration Board (ARB) for Part Two professional accreditation.
Average starting salary
The average starting salary for 2010/11 full-time graduates of the Department of Architecture and Built Environment was £22,659.*
*Average starting salary from known destinations of first-degree leavers who studied full-time, 2010/11.
Careers Support and Advice
Studying for a degree at The University of Nottingham will provide you with the type of skills and experiences that will prove invaluable in any career, whichever direction you decide to take. Throughout your time with us, our Careers and Employability Service can work with you to improve your employability skills even further; assisting with job or course applications, searching for appropriate work experience placements and hosting events to bring you closer to a wide range of prospective employers.
Have a look at our Careers page for an overview of all the employability support and opportunities that we provide to current students.