Architecture and Sustainable Design MArch

• Masters Studio 1 (Environmental Design) (20 credits)

• Masters Studio 2 (Sustainable Design) (30 credits)

• Dissertation (60 credits)

Dissertation

An independent research dissertation of 60 credits is undertaken over the summer. It is an in-depth study of an individually determined theme related to architectural sustainability and green building design.

Previous projects have included:

• renewable energy solutions for sustainable architecture
• designing the sustainable neighbourhood
• future energy efficient solutions for contemporary communities
• light in Chapel on Mt. Rokko and Church of the Light by Tadao Ando: the legacy of Le Corbusier’s sacred buildings
• visual delight and luminous environment in the Scholar Garden of China
• light in the Sir John Soane’s Museum
• optimising housing design to reduce energy efficiency dependency in Jordan
• daylight and thermal assessment in adaptation of Indies architecture from traditional architecture in Indonesia
• the application of an integrated environmental design approach in Jouberton Nursery School, South Africa
• thermal performance of earth structures in warm and humid climates
• design for future climate change via the adoption of integrated design approach

The above is a sample of the typical modules that we offer but is not intended to be construed and/or relied upon as a definitive list of the modules that will be available in any given year. This course page may be updated over the duration of the course, as modules may change due to developments in the curriculum or in the research interests of staff.

Elective options (10 credits):

• Urban Design Theory and Practice

• Design Fabrication and Design Build Theory

• High Rise Issues and Vertical Urbanism

• Sustainable Urban Design

The MArch Architecture and Sustainable Design is a masters degree level based within the Department of Architecture and Built Environment and offered on a full-time basis over one year (September to September).

This course deals with the application of the theoretical and technological aspects of environmental design and sustainable architecture in equal measures in creative studio design projects. Therefore, architectural design projects are a core part of the course.

This course emphasises problem-solving, where technical and theoretical knowledge is integrated into design projects, a unique learning method in environmental design education.

Course content

Studio project briefs are based as much as possible on real-life projects, and participation in national or international competitions will often be encouraged and supported. Students will also be encouraged to present their work in national or international conferences and events. 

Dissertation topic choices will be offered by expert staff, but you are also able to choose a topic of your interest in the context that is most relevant to you to further develop your knowledge in integrated environmental design and sustainable architecture.

In the autumn and spring semesters, you will complete 120 credits worth of modules including  two design modules. These are studio-based exercises where practical skills and creativity are challenged and examined through an architectural project.  Additional lectures and seminar modules provide a parallel knowledge base and intellectual support for the design project and for the final dissertation.

You will spend the summer semester producing a 60-credit supervised dissertation. This will be an in-depth study of an individually determined topic and is an opportunity to conduct a major piece of independent research that reflects individual interests and aspirations. Previous dissertation topics have included: 

• comfort in buildings 
• light in sacred buildings
• visual delight and luminous environment 
• light in museums and exhibition spaces 
• designing sustainable and resilient communities 
• climate resilient design of energy efficient buildings 
• optimising housing design to reduce energy dependency 
• the application of the fabric first approach in various climates
• the application of vernacular architecture strategies in modern design 
• the application of integrated environmental design approach in various climates 
• design for future climate change via the adoption of integrated design approach

Entry requirements

Applicants to all MArch programmes in the Department of Architecture and Built Environment at the University of Nottingham are required to submit a portfolio of their design work with their application. The portfolio enables us to see that you have some of the core skills required to be successful on an MArch course and to see the range of skills and types of projects that you have completed in your undergraduate degree.

The portfolio should be submitted with your admissions application and be in PDF format and less than 10Mb (please submit this directly onto the MyNottingham admissions system).

The portfolio should have:

• a minimum of 10 and a maximum of 15 images
• a letter confirming that this is your own work. The letter should come from a tutor or course teacher who has been responsible for you and should be on institution headed paper
• a front cover of the portfolio which shows your full name

The portfolio should contain:

• examples of a few design projects that you have completed as part of your taught university education. Try to show different presentation techniques that represent your design skills (such as plans, sections, perspectives, physical and computer models, etc). The images can be any from architectural, urban, planning or landscape projects that you have completed in your studies
• you may also include a few sketches, paintings, photographs, still life or life drawings to show your skills (maximum 2 pages)
• as well as the above, it is also acceptable to include an example of a project that you have completed as part of work experience or a professional placement (maximum 2 pages)

Portfolios will be judged on whether you have the visual skills required together with a keen sense of judgement and spatial awareness in your work.

Learning outcomes

On completion of this course, you will have the knowledge and understanding of the opportunities and benefits that arise from the application of an integrated environmental design approach in sustainable architecture. You will also have developed an ability to use building performance prediction tools to enhance and refine design proposals, and a full understanding of the role of architects in supporting sustainable development.

Students who undertake the MArch Environmental Design course will develop:

• an understanding of the of the role of architects in supporting sustainable development
• an understanding of the importance of microclimate and site context in architectural design
• the ability to exercise original thinking, design experimentation and creativity
• the ability to apply integrated environmental design approach in architectural projects
• the ability to use building performance prediction tools to enhance and refine design proposals
• the ability to communicate ideas effectively in verbal communication and written reports
• interpersonal communication and professional presentation skills

Additional costs

As a student on this course, you may factor some additional costs into your budget, alongside your tuition fees and living expenses. You should be able to access most of the books you’ll need through our libraries, though you may wish to purchase your own copies or more specific titles which could cost up to £100 per year.

In addition to this you may spend up to £50 per on printing and up to £50 on model making and drawing equipment. Please note that these figures are approximate and subject to change.

Scholarships and bursaries

Government loans for masters courses

Masters student loans of up to £10,906 are available for taught and research masters courses. Applicants must ordinarily live in the UK or EU.

International and EU students

Masters scholarships are available for international and EU students from a wide variety of countries and areas of study. You must already have an offer to study at Nottingham to apply. Please note closing dates to ensure you apply for your course with enough time. We provide guidance on funding your degree, living costs and working while you study. You can also access specific funding opportunities, entry requirements and other resources for students from specific countries.

Architecture Design and Build MArch

Architecture Design MArch

Sustainable Urban Design MArch