Course Comparison

Course
MArch Architecture (ARB/RIBA Part 2) MA Architectural Design
Award
Master of Architecture - MArch Master of Arts - MA
Duration
2 years 1 year
Assessment breakdown
- -
Course type
Full-time Full-time
Placement
- -
Location
Plymouth Plymouth
Provider
School of Art, Design and Architecture School of Art, Design and Architecture
Entry requirements
The following conditions are required of all applicants:
Expected 2:1 degree classification but we will consider students with lower degree and a good portfolio..
If you are an overseas/EU students you must obtain an IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent.
We welcome applicants with international qualifications. To view other accepted qualifications please refer to our tariff glossary.
The following conditions are highly desired:
12 months experience working in an architect’s office or similar professionally relevant activity.
Application process
To be considered for entry onto the programme, you'll need to submit the following:
  • A completed application form.
  • An official copy of your transcript for your completed degree studies.
  • A statement of interest outlining why you want to study at Plymouth University and what you believe you will contribute to our programme.
  • A portfolio of work with up to 20 images (this can be digital - jpeg images preferred) of previous student work and any work carried out while working in an office and/or any other personal work.
  • Two suitable references (at least one from your former university).
  • Note that we begin generally receiving applications in January for starting the program in September of the same year. The majority of successful students have applied and been offered a place by May, though we accept applications to the beginning of July. Upon receiving a complete application, a review is carried out by administrative and academic staff generally within two weeks. Relevant candidates are then given a conditional offer (and in the case of exceptional candidates an unconditional offer) with an interview (typically via Skype) to follow. Successful applicants through the interview are then typically made an unconditional offer within a few days.
If you would like an informal chat about the Master of Architecture course please contact the programme leader at ada@plymouth.ac.uk.
For a full list of all acceptable qualifications please refer to our tariff glossary.
You are required to have a 2:2 degree in Architecture (or similar design-related discipline such as Architectural Engineering, Architectural Technology, Design, Spatial and VR Media Design, Digital Media Design, Construction, Building Surveying, Town and Urban Planning, among others).
We also require references from previous university, employer and / or similar.
Work experience for approximately 12 months in an architect’s office or other professionally relevant activity is highly desirable, though not required.
Applications to this programme must include a portfolio of work. It is recommended, but not essential, that applicants can demonstrate work experience in the AEC (Architecture, Engineering and Construction) or urban planning sector.
For an informal discussion about MA Architectural Design please contact the programme leader at ada@plymouth.ac.uk
If you have overseas qualifications you can check their comparability with the UK equivalent through UK ECCTIS, who provide an advisory service.
If your first language is not English then evidence of English proficiency is required. For further advice on the appropriateness of overseas qualifications and proficiency in the use of English, please contact our international office.
The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is 6.5 with a minimum 5.5 in all four components.