Why choose this course?
This course places an emphasis on the development of architectural design projects, combining a hands-on, project-driven approach with a strong studio culture. We cover all the important aspects of Architecture, combining urban design, sustainability and contemporary city futures with cultural theory and commercial business practice.
You will:
The course develops graduates with an ethical position on architecture and encourages the following attributes:
- entrepreneurial vision
- strong industry understanding
- sustainable working methodology
- strategic thinking.
Professional validation
The course is prescribed by the Architects' Registration Board (ARB) and validated by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) to provide exemption from the part one examinations.
Student galleries
View some of the work by our Architecture students in the student gallery.
Open days
Find out more about this course at an open day.
Our open days are designed to help you find out about our courses and the University. You'll meet our lecturers and current students, and get to see some of the fantastic facilities we have. You can visit with friends, or bring your parents or guardians along with you. Find out the dates of our next open day.
Taught in new buildings
During the spring term of 2010 the newly refurbished Arkwright building, reopened as the home of BArch (Hons) Architecture, BA (Hons) Interior Architecture and Design and BSc (Hons) Architectural Technology studios.
This impressive building, designed by Hopkins, has undergone a multi-million pound regeneration and provides beautiful, light studio space and dedicated CAD rooms.
Any questions?
Course enquiries:
Email us
Tel: +44 (0)115 941 8418
Admission enquiries:
Ask NTU
Tel: +44 (0)115 941 8418
Please note the following information for applicants
Course focus
Focusing on the challenges of designing for diverse communities and cultures and, with an emphasis on the ethics of architecture, you will consider issues including global threats to traditional cultures, sustainability and commercialisation.
Through hands-on projects based in the UK and overseas, you'll answer professional-standard briefs and develop your creativity and expand your strategic thinking.
Project work is supported by theoretical studies in the philosophy and history of architecture and design; technical and practical aspects in material, structural and constructional realms, and professional practice. You will also get the chance to visit work by exemplary architects both in Britain and around the world.
Modules
The course focuses on four main areas: Architectural Design, Technology and Environment, Communication, and Cultural Contexts. You will cover the following on the course.
Year One
- Introduction to Contemporary and Historical Architecture
- The Role of the Architectural Designer
- Principles of Construction
- Professional Relationships
- Small Scale Design Projects
Year Two
- Creative Architectural Exploration
- Architectural Practice
- Social and Economic Contexts of Design
- Integrated Project
Year Three
You will undertake synthesis research and design projects, which will encompass the following:
- the relationship with the landscape / urban context
- a well researched theoretical and conceptual framework
- technical, environmental and economic strategies
- applied professional studies.
You will also participate in the final-year degree show.
How you study
Design-based coursework is a mixture of individual and group projects, supported by lectures, tutorials and group reviews. Everything is designed to mirror the processes you will find in a professional architectural practice.
You will also take modules focusing on professional practice and the technical and contextual aspects of architecture. These will be delivered through a blend of lectures, seminars, group work and exciting real-world projects.
Group tutorials will encourage you to articulate your design ideas and to critically appraise the work of others, developing interpersonal skills which are invaluable in professional life.
Assessment
Design studio modules are assessed through project work which enables you to build a design portfolio. To encourage exposure to studio culture typical of architects' and designers' practice, it is considered essential that you demonstrate an understanding of the design process and work-in-progress to your peers.
Final assessment coincides with an end of year show and a group presentation.
Student gallery
- Have a look at some of the work created on this course in our student gallery.
Nottingham Trent University Architecture Society
Students on the BArch (Hons) Architecture course have set-up the Nottingham Trent University Architecture Society. They:
- invite guest speakers
- provider a mentor programme
- organise social events and trips.
Specialist equipment and facilities
We can offer you fully equipped workshops and design studios with computer-aided (CAD) facilities.
Course visits and trips
Trips to exhibitions and centres of architectural significance are integrated into the course. Students have recently been to the Birmingham Architecture Exhibition and The Lighthouse, Scotland's Centre for Architecture, Design and the City, New York, Rotterdam and Berlin.
Find out more about the trip and study visits on this course.
You'll have the opportunity to take part in international exchange visits and live projects, and the course also features guest lectures by prominent members of the design profession.
Find out about the live projects our architecture students have been involved in.
Nearly 94% of NTU graduates* with first degrees from full-time study are employed or engaged in further study six months after leaving.
The BArch (Hons) Architecture course develops creative graduates with an entrepreneurial vision. This is the first stage of a three-stage process required to become a qualified architect.
It is the launch pad for a professional career in Architecture. However, architectural education is also recognised by employers as valuable in developing strategic and creative thinking that can be applied to a range of disciplines, including art and design, construction, business services, interior design, advertising, planning and much more.
(*of those available for work, HESA survey 2009 / 10)
Work placements
Although this course does not offer a formal placement year, students are encouraged to undertake informal work placements and enter live industry competitions. All our courses are vocationally focused and benefit from strong links to industry.
Find out more about the course's industry links and work experience opportunities.
Full entry requirement details - for September 2012 entry
You will need:
- a minimum of 320 UCAS tariff points from at least two full A-levels or equivalent qualification and to include an art and design based subject*
- GCSE English grade C or above (literature or language), or equivalent qualification
- GCSE Maths grade C or above, or equivalent qualification
- English language requirements for International and EU students
*If you have not studied an art or design based subject at Level Three (A-level/BTEC National Diploma), you will be asked to submit examples of your creative and design ability.
If the qualifications you have, or are currently studying for, are not included in the entry requirements listed above, please take a look the tariff table or contact us to find out whether they meet our minimum entry requirements.
We welcome mature applicants with non-standard qualifications and relevant work experience (these will be considered on an individual basis).
English language entry requirements
English language entry requirements for courses in the School of Architecture, Design and the Built Environment and a full list of all English language qualifications accepted by the University are available on our website.
Pre-sessional English courses
We offer Pre-sessional English for Academic Purposes (PEAP) courses from six to 30 weeks for students who need help achieving these requirements. Even if you have already met the minimum entry requirements you could still benefit, as many students do, from the study skills and orientation to the UK education system that is offered by a short PEAP course.
For more information on PEAP including dates, fees and English language entry requirements for these courses, please visit our website.
In-sessional English language support
In-sessional English language support classes are available to all international (non-EU) students studying on degree courses at NTU. There is no extra charge for these classes.
How to apply
- Please apply via the UCAS application system.
- If you are not predicted an A or B at A-level in an Art and Design or Design Technology subject you will be asked to submit examples of your creative and design ability.
For more general information on the UCAS application process please visit the UCAS website.
Funding
We have a strong commitment to maintaining access for all to higher education. We recognise the need to invest financially in the future of our students, so we have introduced a system of bursaries aimed at enabling home students from lower income families to undertake a degree course. For information about Nottingham Trent University bursaries please visit Fees and Funding.
Open days
Prospective students are encouraged to visit the School during our publicised open days. Our open days are an ideal opportunity for you to get a taste of Nottingham Trent University, and find out if it is the right place for you. You will:
- meet our staff and students
- get an insight into student life
- find out more about the courses we offer.
Please book your place before you attend.
Find out more about our Architecture, Design and the Built Environment open days.
Any questions?
Course enquiries:
Email us
Tel: +44 (0)115 941 8418
Admission enquiries:
Ask NTU
Tel: +44 (0)115 941 8418
