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Which Architecture course is right for you?

This handy guide highlights the differences between our undergraduate Architecture courses, to help you choose the right route for you.

What is Architecture?

Architecture is the art, science and practice of building. It provides us with a sense of place, and helps bring the natural and designed worlds together. Our creative studio culture reflects industry and prepares you for it – we’re committed to developing emerging talent, and renowned for producing graduates who succeed in the sector, both at home and abroad.

What is the difference between our courses?

BArch (Hons) Architecture is the course to study if you want to become a qualified architect. The course is prescribed by the Architects Registration Board (ARB), accredited by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), and is designed to help you develop your own approach and style.

BA (Hons) Interior Architecture and Design is a course that explores the design and development of internal environments in relation to their overall architectural composition. It's the perfect first step for a graduate career in architectural design, interior decoration and interior design.

BSc (Hons) Architectural Technology is a course focuses on the link between concept and reality. You’ll learn to identify, assess and translate plans into effective, practical and sustainable building solutions.

Entry requirements differ for each course and you might need to submit a portfolio or attend an interview for our Architecture and Interior Architecture and Design courses. You won't need to submit a portfolio for the Architectural Technology course.

Our Interior Architecture and Design and Architectural Technology courses have the option for a sandwich placement year in industry.

Find out more about our courses, including what entry requirements we're looking for and examples of module content:

Course length:

Three years full-time

What are we looking for?

  • Standard offer: 128 UCAS Tariff points from up to four qualifications (two of which must be A-level equivalent)
  • Contextual offer: 120 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.

Examples of modules:

  • Design Studio
  • Technology and Environment in Architecture
  • Architecture in Context
  • Architectural Communication and Representation
  • Professional Practice

Professional progression

This course is accredited by RIBA and ARB (Architects Registration Board). 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.

Visit our course page to find out more.

Course length:

Three years full-time, or four years with a sandwich year.

What are we looking for?

  • Standard offer: 112 UCAS Tariff points from up to four qualifications (two of which must be A-level equivalent)
  • Contextual offer: 104 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.

Examples of modules:

  • Design Studio
  • Design Communication
  • Technical Studies
  • Interior Architecture in Context
  • Research Project

Sandwich year:

In your third year, you'll have the opportunity to take a year-long, full-time placement.

This year in industry will offer you hands-on experience, adding invaluable knowledge and skills to your CV. Many students return to their placement company after graduation, having developed a useful network of contacts within the industry.

Recent placement destinations have included Benoy, KSS Architects, FITCH, The Body Shop, and Dalziel & Pow, working in roles such as junior designer, assistant designer, interior architectural assistant, and more.

Successful completion of the placement year leads to an extra qualification – the Diploma in Professional Practice.

Professional progression:

The course is accredited by the CSD (Chartered Society of Designers).

We frequently work on live projects with our wide range of industry contacts to give you a taste of real-life working projects. Recent live projects have included a brief from Re-Fashion to create a one-of-a-kind concept charity shop, and a brief from Gedling Borough Council to redesign the front-of-house space at their headquarters.

Visit our course page to find out more.

Course length:

Three years full-time or four years with a sandwich year.

What are we looking for?

  • Standard offer: 112 UCAS Tariff points from up to four qualifications (two of which must be A-level equivalent)
  • Contextual offer: 104 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.

Key modules:

  • Architecture in Context
  • Construction Technology
  • Technology and Design Studio
  • Integrated Design Communication
  • Professional Development and Employability
  • Research Project

Sandwich year:

In your third year, you'll have the opportunity to take a year-long, full-time placement.

By choosing our sandwich (four year) route, you’ll have the opportunity to gain real experience in industry. The majority of our placement students receive a salary. Recent placements have included companies such as Benoy, Foster + Partners and Gensler.

You'll also have the opportunity to turn your ideas into a viable business with help from NTU Enterprise.

Professional progression:

This course is accredited by RICS, CIOB and CIAT.  Studying on a CIAT Accredited course makes you part of a worldwide network of professionals and supports you in progressing to Chartered Architectural Technologist (MCIAT) status.

Visit our course page to find out more.

What are the similarities between our courses?

  • All our courses are accredited
  • All courses have great industry links and offer the multiple opportunities to work on live projects
  • All courses are 100% coursework based throughout your three taught years – no exams!
  • All courses allocate a lot of time to independent study and allow you to focus on your specific area of interest
  • All of these courses allow you exhibit your work in your final year showcase
  • They are all based on our City Campus in the heart of Nottingham
  • All give you access to our world-class facilities

What are the options after I graduate?

All of our courses have a great track record in terms careers and employability. Our graduates have gone on to work in companies such as Benoy, Balfour Beatty and FITCH. We have a dedicated employability team to help you along the way!

We also have a number of postgraduate courses linking on from each of our undergraduate courses.

 
An introduction to Architecture at NTU

Principal Lecturer, Bhavna Crossley, talk you through our courses.

Don’t just take our word for it, hear from our students...

"Not only are the facilities incredible, the staff are so helpful. I especially am grateful to the technicians in workshop for always helping and coming up with ideas to make our projects a reality."

Bee Leighton, BArch (Hons) Architecture

"I have learned a number of skills, including being able to use a variety of software to enhance my drawing capabilities. I now feel that I stand a strong chance in any field that’s related to my course."

Fope Bakare, BSc (Hons) Architectural Technology

"My course allows me to be logical and creative at the same time. Critical thinking and creativity are two essential attributes that NTU students are encouraged to develop throughout their studies."

Evanthia Lerodiakonou, BA (Hons) Interior Architecture and Design

Take a look at our students' work…

Keep up to date on social media

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