MA Architectural Design
The MA in Architectural Design (MA AD) is aimed at students who are looking for a rich, advanced and engaging postgraduate programme which focuses on the multiple facets and relationships between design and research.
By pursuing the MA AD, students will get the necessary skills to become sophisticated design-research thinkers and practitioners, enabling them to ground their design-driven knowledge in complex environments.
MA Architectural Design handbook 2024
The MA Architectural Design handbook is issued annually to all MA AD postgraduate international students, staff and external contributors. The handbook is a guide on every aspect of the MA AD master's programme including; course structure, learning and assessment, modules, design units and student support.
How to apply
For more information on course content, structure, fees and how to apply, please visit our MA Architectural Design course information page.
Key events
| Dates | Schedule |
|---|---|
| 4 November 2024 | ART701 ADR Autumn interim crits |
| 9 December 2024 | ART701 ADR End of term reviews |
| 11 February 2025 | ART701 ADR Spring interim crits |
| 24 March 2025 | ART701 ADR Final reviews |
| 6 May 2025 | ART701 ADR Portfolio and reflective diary submission |
| 9 May 2025 | ART701 ADR Portfolio reviews |
| 26 May 2025 | ART704 DT Start |
| 16 June 2025 | ART704 DT (unit-structured) Interim crits |
| 7 July 2025 | ART704 DT (unit-structured) Final reviews |
| 28 July 2025 | ART704 DT Self-directed studies interim reviews (non-resit students) |
| 25 August 2025 | ART704 DT Dissertation submission (non-resit students) |
| 3 September 2025 | ART704 DT Vivas (non-resit students) |
| 13 October 2025 | ART704 DT Self-directed studies interim review (resit + EC students) |
| 10 November 2025 | Final submission deadline (resit + EC students) |
| 19 November 2025 | ART704 DT Vivas (resit + EC students) |
Design units
You will work in small groups called ‘design units’ under the guidance of a Unit Leader. They will be an experienced tutor in research and architectural design. Units include:
- Unit A:H>D_Lahore 2024 Contemporary Architecture and Heritage for Socio-Economic Development
- Unit B: EcoLoci (2022-2023)
- Unit C: Learning Environments - Design Research Laboratory (LE-DR Lab). Dr Hiral Patel (2022-2023)
- Unit D: URBAN WATERS, BODIES, (dis-)CONNECTIONS (2022-2023)
Full unit descriptions are available in the MA AD Handbook.
My year doing the MA AD was full of challenges and surprises. I gained more than extensive, inspirational skillsets in architectural design; I delved deeply into exploring the potential and challenges and their corresponding solutions, such as employing contemporary interventions for revitalising heritage cities and addressing contemporary adaptability. Throughout my studies I experimented with various research methods, notably the methodologies known as "Multi-layered Analysis" and "Research-oriented Architectural Design." Constructing on these methods, I polished my understanding of complex urban contexts through AD-R (Architectural Design-Research) and dissertation practices. This year of study has ignited my passion for urban cultural heritage and historic districts, simultaneously expanding the scope of my career prospects.
Course team
Course director and unit leader
Deputy course director
Unit leaders
Teaching assistant
Admissions support
Architecture Admissions
For more information on course content, structure, fees and how to apply, please visit our Coursefinder page.