City

What you'll study

The programme is studio-centred, organised around a sequence of design projects that increase in scale and complexity. In design studios you will develop ideas through sketching, drawing, physical models and digital representation, learning concept generation, spatial thinking and project development.

• Design studio: iterative projects that test architectural ideas, briefs and site contexts from concept to resolved proposals.
• History and theory: architectural history, critical theory and cultural context to inform design decisions and provide intellectual grounding.
• Technology and environmental design: structural principles, building construction, materials, detailing and sustainable design strategies including passive environmental control and energy considerations.
• Digital methods: computer-aided design, 3D modelling, visualisation and introductory Building Information Modelling (BIM) workflows, plus digital fabrication techniques.
• Professional practice and research skills: project management, procurement routes, ethics, legal and regulatory frameworks, and methods for conducting design-led research.
• Modelmaking and representation: hands-on workshops for physical models, drawings and graphic communication.

Teaching mixes large and small-group lectures, weekly studio tutorials, technical workshops, and site visits. Assessment is typically through design portfolios and project submissions, written essays, technical assignments and presentations.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to demonstrate both academic ability and design potential. Typical entry is via qualifications such as A-levels, BTEC Extended Diploma, Scottish Highers, or international equivalents; offers commonly request a set of passes at higher secondary level together with evidence of creative work.

• Portfolio: a portfolio of creative work is required and is central to selection. It should show drawing, modelmaking, photography or other visual work that demonstrates your design thinking and skills.
• Interview: shortlisted candidates are usually invited to interview (in person or online) to discuss their portfolio and motivation for studying architecture.
• Alternative routes: applicants without traditional qualifications may be considered on the basis of a foundation year, relevant work experience or a strong portfolio. International applicants should provide equivalent qualifications and evidence of English language proficiency where required.

Career prospects

Graduates use the BA (Hons) Architecture as a foundation for a variety of careers in the built environment. Many continue to professional training (for example, postgraduate architecture programmes that lead towards professional qualifications), while others enter related roles directly.

• Architectural assistant roles in small and large practices (often following further professional study)
• Urban design, planning and landscape support roles
• Building information modelling (BIM) and technical drawing positions
• Project management, construction and site coordination roles
• Conservation, heritage and adaptive reuse consultancy
• Related creative careers such as exhibition and set design, visualisation, product design and architectural journalism
• Self-employment and entrepreneurial opportunities in design practices or specialist consultancies

Why study at City

City's architecture degree is taught within a central London school with strong links to industry and a practice-oriented studio culture. Students benefit from a city-centre location that makes site visits, client engagement and professional networking straightforward.

• Studio emphasis: intensive studio time with regular tutor critique and peer review to build a professional design portfolio.
• Industry connections: collaborations with local practices, live projects and visiting practitioners bring real-world perspectives into the curriculum.
• Technical resources: access to workshops, modelling facilities and digital fabrication equipment to support both analogue and digital making.
• Support services: careers and employability guidance tailored to architecture and the built environment, plus opportunities for work placements and internships.