Oxford Brookes University

What you'll study

This three-year undergraduate programme delivers a combination of design-led studio projects, technical studies and contextual modules. Studio projects increase in complexity from fundamental spatial and compositional exercises in your first year to multi-disciplinary, site-specific design challenges in later years. Core technical topics include construction and materials, structural principles, environmental and sustainable design, digital modelling and information management (including CAD/BIM workflows).

Alongside studio and technical work you will study architectural history and theory, research methods, and professional practice topics such as contract, law and ethics. Assessment typically includes design portfolios, drawing and model work, technical reports, presentations and a final major project which synthesises design, technology and research.

Typical modules and subjects

• Design Studio: iterative design projects, site analysis and model-making
• Construction and Technology: building construction, materials and details
• Structures and Environmental Design: structural logic, passive and active environmental strategies
• Digital Representation and BIM: 2D/3D modelling, parametric tools and digital fabrication
• Architectural History and Theory: critical contexts, historiography and theory
• Professional Studies: practice management, regulations and professional ethics
• Research Project / Major Design Project: independent research integrated with design

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a secondary school qualification equivalent to standard UK university entry (A-levels, BTEC, International Baccalaureate or equivalent). The programme requires submission of a portfolio of creative work and successful applicants are typically invited to an interview. English language proficiency is required for international applicants.

The course welcomes applicants from a broad range of academic backgrounds and mature applicants are considered. Specific module prerequisites are not usually required, but demonstrable design, drawing or creative ability is essential. Applicants who do not meet the standard academic profile may be considered on the basis of a strong portfolio and interview performance.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with the academic qualification that forms the first stage of professional education in architecture. Typical career pathways include working as an architectural assistant or technician in practices of varying scale, progressing to postgraduate professional qualifications (RIBA Part 2 and Part 3 where applicable) to become a fully qualified architect. Beyond architectural practice, graduates work in urban design, conservation, sustainability consultancy, digital design and fabrication, project management, planning and construction industry roles. The degree also provides a foundation for research or further study in related fields such as heritage, landscape architecture and building science.

Why study at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes offers a practice-focused architecture education with dedicated design studios, workshops and digital fabrication facilities that support hands-on learning. The school maintains strong links with local and national architectural practices, providing opportunities for live projects, site visits and placements. The university’s location close to the historic city of Oxford gives students rich cultural and built-environment resources to inform study while remaining well connected to professional networks in the wider region. Students benefit from an interdisciplinary environment within the School of Architecture and the Built Environment, plus careers and employability support tailored to the built environment professions.