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Architecture (ARB/RIBA Part 1) BArch (Hons)
- Level(s) of Study: Undergraduate
- UCAS Code(s): K100
- Start Date(s): September 2023
- Duration: Three years, full-time
- Study Mode(s): Full-time
- Campus: City Campus
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Entry Requirements:
More information
Introduction:
Prescribed by the Architects Registration Board (ARB) and validated by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), this creative, project-driven course is designed to help you develop your own design approach and style.
You’ll be exposed to diverse aspects of architectural design, linking sustainability and urban design with business practice. This course will equip you with skills and knowledge to tackle contemporary issues related to the built environment, exploring the design, human, professional and technical influences needed to pursue a successful career in architecture.
Reflecting modern architectural practice, our studio culture encourages you to work collaboratively, share experiences and experiment with ideas. You’ll learn the art of creative communication through drawing, model-making and 3D visualisation in our industry-standard design studios and materials workshops.
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Successful completion of this course is the first step towards becoming a qualified architect, satisfying the educational requirements needed for your RIBA Part 1 qualification. -
You'll take part in live design projects, with creative briefs from real clients. Students have previously worked with RIBA East Midlands, Flo Skatepark and local charity Growin' Spaces on design briefs and installations. -
Exhibit your work at our annual final year degree show and Architecture Exchange event, attended by architecture professionals, industry experts and potential employers. -
NTU is ranked Top 10 in the UK for Architecture graduate prospects (Times and Sunday Times University Guide, 2023).
How does this course differ from our BA (Hons) Interior Architecture and Design and BSc (Hons) Architectural Technology?
What you’ll study
Over three years, you'll develop the skills, knowledge and experience needed for a successful graduate career. You'll develop a solid foundation of design skills, theory and terminology, before working on complex and demanding projects as your studies progress.
In Year One, you'll establish foundations in architectural design, communication and representation, contextual studies, technology and environment. You'll develop your creative ability to design in a variety of spatial, cultural and temporal contexts through project work and learn about the mechanisms associated with building production.
Design Studio (60 credits)
- This module will introduce you to small-scale design project work, exploring the three-dimensional qualities of space.
- You'll look at the range of factors that influence architectural design, and develop the skills to critically appraise design proposals.
- Some of the projects included in this module are set within the context of specific cultural communities and social groups, enabling you to put together design proposals that respond to social, cultural and aesthetic needs.
Technology and Environment in Architecture 1 (20 credits)
- The aim of this module is to introduce you to a range of technical, practical and environmental considerations involved in the making of domestic-scale architecture.
- You'll look at the load-bearing capabilities, cost and performance of materials in order to understand the suitability of different construction materials. The module will focus on the means of achieving thermal, ventilation, sound and light control in buildings through design and construction. You'll also look at sustainable design and consider health and safety in construction.
- The module content will provide a framework for understanding the environmental impact of buildings. You'll learn about UK regulations, financial considerations, and sustainability – knowledge to help underpin successful architectural design.
Architecture in Context 1 (20 credits)
- This module looks at how wider social issues, such as politics, the economy and technology influence architecture, both throughout history and in current times.
- You'll learn to recognise and engage with architectural responses to these influences by studying a variety of historical and cultural themes within an architectural framework.
Architectural Communication and Representation (20 credits)
- This lecture and studio-based module will introduce you to a range of visualisation techniques using traditional and digital media. You'll learn how to convey your design ideas using 2D and 3D methods and techniques, including orthographic drawing by hand, using digital media, model making, and presentation.
- You'll learn about the professional conventions and standards used for the communication of a design idea, from inception through to construction.
Your Year Two studies will enable you to integrate your understanding of cultural contexts, technology and environment, and awareness of approaches in allied professions. Your studio projects are interlinked with your other design modules to ensure a truly inter-disciplinary approach.
Integrated Design Studio (60 credits)
- Building and on the skills you'll have developed in Year One, this module offers a variety of different projects relating to medium-scale buildings and spaces.
- To demonstrate your growing knowledge of materials and design principles, you'll be challenged to develop creative responses to a variety of different urban, physical, technical, economic, social, ethical and cultural settings.
- You'll work on your ideas from conception through to modelling, developing an understanding of the consequences of design decisions, culminating in a presentation of your designs through visual, verbal, written or electronic presentations.
Technology and Environment in Architecture 2 (20 credits)
- The overall aim of this module is to give you the understanding and knowledge to make technical recommendations, communicating effectively with clients and stakeholders throughout the design process.
- You'll develop your knowledge of the appropriate technical design options for a variety of medium-sized building types, enabling you to choose appropriate solutions to satisfy a variety of factors affecting an architectural project, such as financial constraints and both human and legal demands.
- You'll look at issues surrounding environmental sustainability and develop an awareness of construction processes and workmanship.
Architecture in Context 2 (20 credits)
- The module aims to develop your understanding of contemporary and emerging debates in architecture, the arts and urban design – both locally and globally.
- You'll explore issues of cultural diversity and the impact this has on the built environment, identifying the needs, perceptions and values of specific cultural communities.
Interdisciplinary Design Studies (20 credits)
- This module will widen your understanding of design, looking at a range of creative disciplines beyond building construction.
- The module aims to situate your understanding of architecture within the wider context of how humans understand and interact with space.
In your Final Year, you'll further develop the creative abilities associated with a holistic approach to architectural design and thought. You'll critically examine a range of related areas, including ethical positions on technological decision-making in the context of global sustainability, human habitation in a multi-cultural world, and engagement with contemporary architectural challenges.
Professional Practice (20 credits)
- This module will specifically prepare you for your graduate career, focusing on key skills, qualities and attributes that employers will expect from an architecture graduate.
- These include professionalism and ethics, personal organisation and time management, practice management, entrepreneurship, and business management. You'll be fully prepared in all elements of project management, from procurement to health and safety, and from presentation skills to understanding statutory regulations.
Comprehensive Design Studio (60 credits)
- Building on your developments in Year Two, this module will focus on larger-scale or more complex projects, designed to extend your ability to demonstrate awareness of context, external factors and constraints, as well as your ability to communicate your ideas in different forms.
- You'll be stretched to design in a variety of different situations, ranging from urban design to smaller exploratory projects, responding creatively to thematic challenges.
Architecture in Context 3 (20 credits)
- You'll build on your understanding of architectural theory by undertaking an individual piece of extended research, enriching your understanding of architecture's potential as a useful and meaningful cultural activity.
- Your chosen topic will focus on key issues or major contemporary debates in architectural thought, exploring historical, cultural or philosophical contexts through which architecture may be analysed, criticised, debated and understood. Your research project will be self-directed, with support from your academic team.
Technology and Environment in Architecture 3 (20 credits)
- This module will further your ability to incorporate technical innovation in your designs, through the development of acoustic, lighting, structural and material studies.
- You'll be set projects within a studio environment, and tasked with investigating material possibilities by designing and building physical and digital models in simulated conditions. You'll use your findings to define and justify your technical design proposals, with a consideration of cost, environmental factors, and the lifespan of materials.
Degree Show exhibition
In your final year, you'll be invited to display your work as part of NTU's Degree Shows. The events are an opportunity for all final year students studying across NTU's Art and Design-based courses to showcase their work to our network of industry professionals and prospective employers, invited specifically for this purpose.
Video Gallery
How you’re taught
Based on 40-hour weeks during term time, you will spend approximately 16 hours per week in scheduled learning. Course content is delivered through lectures, studio projects and live briefs from both industry and competitions. You will also be involved in self-directed project work with the support of NOW, our virtual learning environment.
Outside of timetabled sessions you will need to undertake self-directed independent study. This will include preparing for lectures, researching, completing coursework, developing a portfolio, and directed reading to expand your knowledge.
The course is supported by external professional practitioners, ensuring that your learning is continuously enhanced through exposure to real-world perspective. This includes our guest lecture series, where an industry expert is invited to deliver a talk to expose our students to the work currently happening in architecture practices. You'll also have the opportunity to get involved with our RIBA student mentoring scheme in your final year, working alongside local firms, to develop your skills and knowledge.
Study trips
Field trips and study visits are an important part of your learning. Trips may include site visits and visits to practices, museums, exhibitions and events. Where a trip is mandatory it will be aligned to your modules and inform project work, and substantive costs – including travel and accommodation – will be paid for by the school. Optional trips may also be organised which can provide additional opportunities to enhance your knowledge and experience. Optional trips may incur a cost to the student. A valid passport and any associated visas will be required for trips outside of the UK.
Contact hours
| Year One | Lectures/seminars/workshops | 32% | Independent study | 68% |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year Two | Lectures/seminars/workshops | 31% | Independent study | 69% |
| Year Three | Lectures/seminars/workshops | 28% | Independent study | 71% |
How you’re assessed
You will be assessed through a mix of coursework and practical work. Coursework will make up the majority of your assessment and consists of group and individual projects, reports, presentations and a portfolio.
| Year One | Coursework | 100% |
|---|---|---|
| Year Two | Coursework | 100% |
| Year Three | Coursework | 100% |
Careers and employability
We've got a great track record of producing skilled, industry-ready graduates. Our BArch (Hons) Architecture course is designed to prepare you to take your first step in the architecture industry. Through working on real projects from industry, fieldwork, and creative briefs from industry clients, you'll be equipped with skills and experience to carry with you for the rest of your professional career.
You’ll be encouraged to undertake work experience alongside your studies, to expose you to professional practice and give you hands-on experience of it. You'll also be supported in your development with a final year mentoring programme, working alongside RIBA and local practices including Leonard Design Architects, Buckenham & Co and Franklin Ellis Architects.
Where do Architecture graduates from NTU work?
Recent graduate roles include architects, architectural assistants and design team members at leading companies such as:
- Benoy
- Foster + Partners
- Atelier New York
- Terry Farrell and Partners
- Dixon Jones
- Balfour Beatty
- PolkeyCollins
- Peldon Rose Group
- Virgin Media
Becoming an Architect
The course has full Architects Registration Board (ARB) prescription, meaning successful completion satisfies the educational requirements needed for your RIBA Part 1 qualification. Following this, you’ll be ready to complete your first year of experience before starting Part 2, on your way to becoming a qualified architect. Take a look at the ARB Student Handbook for a guide to becoming an architect.
Employability team
Our expert Employability team will work closely with you at every stage of your career planning, providing personal support and advice. You can benefit from this service at any time during your studies, and for up to three years after completing your course.
Throughout the year, our Employability team runs a series of events specifically for students studying in the School of Architecture, Design and the Built Environment. This includes our annual Architecture Exchange event which brings together current students and prospective employers for an evening of presentations, round table discussions and networking opportunities. We also run a Property, Design and Construction Fair, offering employers the opportunity to advertise graduate roles to our final year students.
NTU is 1st for the number of UG students studying Architecture, building and planning (HESA, 2021/22)
NTU Enterprise
You'll also have the opportunity to turn your ideas into a viable business with help from NTU Enterprise, NTU's purpose-built Centre for Entrepreneurship and Enterprise, a support centre to help students create, develop and grow their own businesses.
What our students are doing now
Final year Architecture student wins internship at Architecture North
Final year BArch (Hons) Architecture student, Lucas Spence, has won a 6-week paid internship at Architecture North, as part of the Northern Lights design competition.
Nottingham Trent University wins highest national honour for cultural heritage science research
Annual Architecture Exchange event goes virtual
Campus and facilities
Historic setting, modern practice
As an Architecture student you'll have full access to our dedicated studio space, based in our Grade II* listed Gothic Revival Style Arkwright building. This is where you'll spend the majority of your time studying, supported by our expert team of academic and technical staff.
Our studio is a perfect space for you to develop your skills in sketching, physical model-making and computer software as part of the design process. You'll be introduced to various programmes throughout the course including Adobe Photoshop and InDesign, AutoCAD, Sketchup, REVIT and VRay to complete your work.
Entry requirements
What are we looking for?
- 120 - 128 UCAS Tariff points from up to four qualifications (two of which must be A-level equivalent).
- GCSE English and Maths grade C / 4.
To find out what qualifications have tariff points, please use our tariff calculator.
Other requirements
*If you're studying a relevant creative qualification and predicted a Grade B or above in that subject, you won't be required to submit a digital portfolio as part of the application process. Accepted creative subjects include Art, Fine Art, 3D Design, Graphic Design, Product Design, Critical and Contextual Studies, a BTEC Diploma in Foundation Studies in Art & Design, and UAL Extended Diploma in Art & Design.
Contextual offers
A lower offer may be made based on a range of factors, including your background (such as where you live and the school or college you attended), your experiences and individual circumstances (you may have been in care, for example). This is called a contextual offer and we get data from UCAS to make these decisions. NTU offers a student experience like no other and this approach helps us to find students who have the potential to succeed here but who may have faced barriers that make it more difficult to access university. Find out how we assess your application.
Other qualifications and experience
We may also consider credits achieved at other universities and your work/life experience through an assessment of prior learning. This may be for year one entry, or beyond the beginning of a course where applicable, for example, into year 2. Our Recognition of Prior Learning and Credit Transfer Policy outlines the process and options available for this route.
Getting in touch
If you need more help or information, get in touch through our enquiry form
What are we looking for?
- 128 UCAS Tariff points from up to four qualifications (two of which must be A-level equivalent).
- GCSE English and Maths grade C / 4.
Other requirements
*If you're studying a relevant creative qualification and predicted a Grade B or above in that subject, you won't be required to submit a digital portfolio as part of the application process. Accepted creative subjects include Art, Fine Art, 3D Design, Graphic Design, Product Design, Critical and Contextual Studies, a BTEC Diploma in Foundation Studies in Art & Design, and UAL Extended Diploma in Art & Design.
International qualifications
We accept qualifications from all over the world – check yours here:
Undergraduate preparation courses (Foundation)
If you don’t yet meet our entry requirements, we offer Foundation courses through our partner Nottingham Trent International College (NTIC), based on our City Campus:
English language entry requirements
You can meet our language requirements by successfully completing our pre-sessional English course for an agreed length of time, or by submitting the required grade in one of our accepted English language tests, such as IELTS:
Advanced standing (starting your undergraduate degree in Year Two or Three)
You may be able to start your undergraduate course in year 2 or 3 based on what you have studied before. This decision would be made in accordance with our Recognition of Prior Learning and Credit Transfer Policy.
Would you like some advice on your study plans?
Our international teams are highly experienced in answering queries from students all over the world. We also have members of staff based in Vietnam, China, India and Nigeria and work with a worldwide network of education counsellors.
- Complete this simple form to keep in touch with the International Office.
Fees and funding
You'll find the course fees for your year of entry on our tuition fee page.
Preparing for the financial side of student life is important, that’s why we’re here to help. Take a look at our fees and funding pages for lots of handy advice and guidance.
For more advice and guidance, you can contact our Student Financial Support Service by calling +44 (0)115 848 2494.
Additional costs
Your course fees cover the cost of studies, and include loads of great benefits, such as the use of our library, support from our expert Employability team, and free use of the IT equipment across our campuses.
However you should be aware that students on this course may incur some additional costs as follows:
- Level 4: Drawing equipment £250 (estimate), printing £100 (estimate) and model making resources £100 (estimate). The School will provide you with £100 worth of print/materials credit on your student card in Year One to use in our Bonington art shop (City Campus), school workshops and school printing facilities.
- Level 5: Printing £200 (estimate) and model making resources £150 (estimate). The School will provide you with £100 worth of print/materials credit on your student card in Year Two to use in our Bonington art shop (City Campus), school workshops and school printing facilities.
- Level 6: Printing £300 (estimate) and model making resources £250 (estimate). The School will provide you with £100 worth of print/materials credit on your student card in your Final Year to use in our Bonington art shop (City Campus), school workshops and school printing facilities.
All other mandatory costs for the course are paid for by the University. Our Students’ Union shop and Bonington art shop are great places to pick up drawing and writing equipment at reasonable prices and are located right in the centre of our City Campus.
Library books
Most study modules will recommend one or more core text books, which most students choose to purchase. Book costs vary and further information is available in the University’s bookshop. Our libraries provide a good supply of essential text books, journals and materials (many of which you can access online) – meaning you may not need to purchase as many books as you might think! There may also be a supply of second-hand books available for purchase from previous year students.
Work experience
If you're undertaking any work experience alongside your studies or during holiday periods, you'll need to budget for accommodation and any travel costs you may incur whilst doing so.
Degree Show
In Final Year, the School will provide infrastructure costs for your Degree Show, including course catalogue, exhibition printing and set-up costs.
Our Building Blocks financial package: supporting you throughout your studies
As a student at the School of Architecture, Design and the Built Environment, you’ll also benefit from our Building Blocks financial package, which aims to help minimise the additional costs of study, while you’re here at NTU.
What you’ll receive
- £100 print and materials credit for each year of your course (for a maximum of three years). You’ll be able to spend this at our Bonington art shop, fully stocked with a wide range of art and design materials at student-friendly prices, and at our School of Architecture, Design and the Built Environment workshops and print facilities.
- All of the materials needed for induction workshops and activities, working within our workshops and laboratories.
- Free personal protective equipment (PPE), which usually includes hard-wearing boots, goggles and high-vis vests, to keep you safe on site visits and while working in our workshops.
- Access to the free professional body accreditation, as appropriate for your course.
- £20 pre-paid printing allowance for use at the NTU Print Shops, and library photocopiers. For more details about costs for additional print and copying required over and above the annual allowance please see the Printing, photocopying and scanning information on the Library website.
Tuition fees for September 2023 entry
Tuition fees are payable for each year that you are at the University. The level of tuition fees for the second and subsequent years of your undergraduate course may increase in line with inflation and as specified by the UK government. Visit our fees page for more information.
Scholarships
We offer scholarships of up to 50% of your tuition fee. You can apply for your scholarship when you have an offer to study at NTU.
Living costs
Get advice on the cost of living as an international student in Nottingham and how to budget:
Paying fees
Find out about advanced payments, instalment plan options and how to make payments securely to the University:
Additional costs
Your course fees cover the cost of studies, and include loads of great benefits, such as the use of our library, support from our expert Employability team, and free use of the IT equipment across our campuses.
However you should be aware that students on this course may incur some additional costs as follows:
- Level 4: Drawing equipment £250 (estimate), printing £100 (estimate) and model making resources £100 (estimate). The School will provide you with £100 worth of print/materials credit on your student card in Year One to use in our Bonington art shop (City Campus), school workshops and school printing facilities.
- Level 5: Printing £200 (estimate) and model making resources £150 (estimate). The School will provide you with £100 worth of print/materials credit on your student card in Year Two to use in our Bonington art shop (City Campus), school workshops and school printing facilities.
- Level 6: Printing £300 (estimate) and model making resources £250 (estimate). The School will provide you with £100 worth of print/materials credit on your student card in your Final Year to use in our Bonington art shop (City Campus), school workshops and school printing facilities.
All other mandatory costs for the course are paid for by the University. Our Students’ Union shop and Bonington art shop are great places to pick up drawing and writing equipment at reasonable prices and are located right in the centre of our City Campus.
Library books
Most study modules will recommend one or more core text books, which most students choose to purchase. Book costs vary and further information is available in the University’s bookshop. Our libraries provide a good supply of essential text books, journals and materials (many of which you can access online) – meaning you may not need to purchase as many books as you might think! There may also be a supply of second-hand books available for purchase from previous year students.
Work experience
If you're undertaking any work experience alongside your studies or during holiday periods, you'll need to budget for accommodation and any travel costs you may incur whilst doing so.
Degree Show
In Final Year, the School will provide infrastructure costs for your Degree Show, including course catalogue, exhibition printing and set-up costs.
Our Building Blocks financial package: supporting you throughout your studies
As a student at the School of Architecture, Design and the Built Environment, you’ll also benefit from our Building Blocks financial package, which aims to help minimise the additional costs of study, while you’re here at NTU.
What you’ll receive
- £100 print and materials credit for each year of your course (for a maximum of three years). You’ll be able to spend this at our Bonington art shop, fully stocked with a wide range of art and design materials at student-friendly prices, and at our School of Architecture, Design and the Built Environment workshops and print facilities.
- All of the materials needed for induction workshops and activities, working within our workshops and laboratories.
- Free personal protective equipment (PPE), which usually includes hard-wearing boots, goggles and high-vis vests, to keep you safe on site visits and while working in our workshops.
- Access to the free professional body accreditation, as appropriate for your course.
- £20 pre-paid printing allowance for use at the NTU Print Shops, and library photocopiers. For more details about costs for additional print and copying required over and above the annual allowance please see the Printing, photocopying and scanning information on the Library website.
Would you like some advice on your study plans?
Our international teams are highly experienced in answering queries from students all over the world. We also have members of staff based in Vietnam, China, India and Nigeria and work with a worldwide network of education counsellors.
Complete this simple form to keep in touch with the International Office.
How to apply
Apply through UCAS
As part of your application, you’ll submit a personal statement. This is your opportunity to tell us about your ambitions, skills and experience. You have 4,000 characters to impress us – here’s how to make your words count.
If your initial application is successful, we’ll then ask you to submit a digital portfolio*.
Your portfolio is an opportunity for you to demonstrate your potential as an architect. Take a look at our digital portfolio advice.
*If you're studying a relevant creative qualification and predicted a Grade B or above in that subject, you won't be required to submit a digital portfolio as part of the application process. Accepted creative subjects in this instance include A-levels in Art, Design or Graphic Design, a UAL Extended Diploma, or a BTEC in Art and Design.
Keeping up to date
After you've applied, we'll be sending you important emails throughout the application process – so check your emails regularly, including your junk mail folder.
You can get more information and advice about applying to NTU on our Your Application page.
You can apply for this course through UCAS.
If you are not applying to any other UK universities, you can apply directly to us on our NTU Applicant Portal.
Application advice
Apply early so that you have enough time to prepare – processing times for Student visas can vary, for example. After you've applied, we'll be sending you important emails throughout the application process – so check your emails regularly, including your junk mail folder.
Writing your personal statement
Be honest, thorough, and persuasive – we can only make a decision about your application based on what you tell us:
Your portfolio
If your initial application is successful, we’ll then ask you to submit a digital portfolio*.
Your portfolio is an opportunity for you to demonstrate your potential as an architect. Take a look at our digital portfolio advice.
*If you're studying a relevant creative qualification and predicted a Grade B or above in that subject, you won't be required to submit a digital portfolio as part of the application process. Accepted creative subjects include Art, Fine Art, 3D Design, Graphic Design, Product Design, Critical and Contextual Studies, a BTEC Diploma in Foundation Studies in Art & Design, and UAL Extended Diploma in Art & Design.
Would you like some advice on your study plans?
Our international teams are highly experienced in answering queries from students all over the world. We also have members of staff based in Vietnam, China, India and Nigeria and work with a worldwide network of education counsellors.
Complete this simple form to keep in touch with the International Office.