Politecnico di Torino

Overview

The Master of Science in Architecture for Sustainability at Politecnico di Torino equips aspiring architects with the skills to design, retrofit, and manage projects that align with environmental, social, cultural, and economic sustainability objectives. The program seamlessly integrates studio-based design ateliers with technical, urban, and restoration-focused coursework, fostering a comprehensive understanding of sustainable architectural practices.

• Award: Master of Science (MSc)
• Focus: Sustainable architecture, retrofit, restoration, urban and territorial sustainability
• Delivery: On-campus (Italy)
• Credits: Typically 120 ECTS
• Language of instruction: English
• Application: Submit online via the university admissions portal

What you'll study

The curriculum for the MSc in Architecture for Sustainability is structured around multidisciplinary design ateliers, complemented by technical and cultural courses, internship opportunities, and a final thesis. This design fosters a connection between design choices and sustainability outcomes throughout the project lifecycle.

• Design ateliers: Multidisciplinary studios focusing on sustainability-driven architectural design that incorporates architectural, structural, technical, urban, and restoration perspectives.
• Core academic courses:
  • Digital history
  • Structural design
  • Restoration
  • New technologies for survey and drawing
  • Urban planning
  • Urban sociology
• Electives: Specialized courses allowing deeper exploration of sustainability themes such as retrofit, environmental performance, heritage, and regeneration.
• Internship activities: Practical experiences linking theoretical studio work with real-world professional contexts.
• Final thesis: A capstone project that showcases your capability to create a sustainability-focused architectural or planning proposal, underpinned by technical and critical analysis.

Entry requirements

Applicants are required to possess a relevant Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) that qualifies them for Master’s level study. If applying before graduation from a “single cycle” Laurea magistrale program, candidates must have completed a minimum of 180 ECTS (or equivalent) and have a total of at least 15 years of prior education, including university-level study. Admission is contingent upon meeting the program's curricular and quality standards, which involve evaluating your academic background and suitability for sustainability-oriented architectural study.

English requirements: Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English through accepted tests such as:

• TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 72
• PTE Academic: Minimum score of 59
• IELTS: Minimum score of 5.5

These scores indicate the total/overall result. For specific requirements pertaining to your intake, please consult the official admissions page.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MSc in Architecture for Sustainability are well-prepared for diverse career paths in the architectural and urban planning sectors. They can pursue roles in sustainable design, project management, urban planning, and restoration, contributing to environmentally responsible practices in architecture. The program’s emphasis on practical experience and interdisciplinary collaboration ensures that graduates are equipped to address complex sustainability challenges in various professional environments.