Oxford Brookes University

What you'll study

This masters combines creative design studios with taught modules on technology, professional practice and research. Core learning is project-based: you will work on progressively ambitious interior architecture briefs that explore spatial composition, materiality, lighting, services integration and detailing at various scales from domestic to institutional and cultural projects. You will be supported to develop a major independent dissertation or final design project that demonstrates conceptual rigour, technical resolution and critical reflection.

• Design Studio — iterative, tutor-led studios that develop concept, spatial strategy and resolved detailing through physical and digital modelmaking, drawings and presentations.
• Materials and Construction — investigation of traditional and contemporary materials, junction detailing, specification and buildability for interior interventions.
• Digital Representation and Making — CAD, BIM-aware workflows, 3D modelling, rendering and digital fabrication techniques used to communicate and test designs.
• Lighting, Acoustics and Building Services — principles of environmental control, daylighting, artificial lighting and integration of services within interiors.
• Contextual and Critical Studies — research methods, history and theory of interiors, spatial phenomenology and socio-cultural drivers affecting interior practice.
• Professional Practice — project management, client engagement, regulatory frameworks, procurement routes and the business aspects of running or working in a design practice.

Teaching typically combines studio contact, workshops, seminars and one-to-one tutorials. Assessment methods include design portfolios, technical reports, presentations and a final major project that synthesises research and design outcomes.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good undergraduate degree (equivalent to a UK 2:1) in architecture, interior design, product design, fine art or a related discipline. Candidates with a lower second-class degree plus relevant professional experience, or those presenting a strong portfolio of work, may also be considered. You'll be asked to submit a portfolio demonstrating design work, technical understanding and creative potential, along with a personal statement and references.

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency in line with the university's requirements. Shortlisted applicants may be invited to an interview or a portfolio review, which can sometimes be conducted remotely.

Career prospects

Graduates progress into roles across interior architecture and allied design professions. Typical destinations include interior architect/designer roles within small and mid-sized practices, specialist roles in lighting or materials consultancies, exhibition and set design, workplace and retail fit-out design, and heritage or conservation-focused interior projects. Alumni also move into multidisciplinary architecture firms, project management, design-led consultancy or start their own specialist practices. The programme equips students for senior design positions by strengthening conceptual thinking, technical competence and professional skills.

Why study at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes has a strong, practice-oriented approach to architectural and interior education, emphasising studio culture, hands-on making and industry engagement. The School fosters close tutor-led support, access to workshops and digital fabrication facilities, and links with local and national design practices that provide live briefs and networking opportunities. Studying in Oxford gives you proximity to a rich architectural context and a vibrant design community while benefiting from a university environment that balances applied learning with critical research.