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Architecture

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Although the UCAS equal consideration date has now passed, many of our courses are still accepting applications from UK students for 2024 entry through UCAS.

The deadline for international students is 30 June 2024.

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Bachelor of Arts

A Bachelor of Arts (BA Hons) is a bachelor’s degree awarded for an undergraduate programme in the arts.

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Course overview

As the first UK university to award a RIBA-accredited degree in Architecture, the University of Liverpool has a long and proud tradition of excellence in architectural education and research. Our approach to teaching embraces contemporary debates around sustainability, climate change, equality and diversity, reflecting the industry today.

Introduction

The programme aims to provide a comprehensive foundation in architecture, which demands knowledge of many different but interrelated disciplines, and the development of personal as well as technical skills. RIBA Part I is awarded on completion of your studies.

Each year contains core modules in the history and theory of architecture; building structures and construction; and approaches to design. Environmental issues are considered at every level of study and you will also have an opportunity to learn about practice management. These knowledge modules will be combined with studio design, which accounts for 50% of your credits in each year.

We encourage a creative and individual approach to the future, allowing us to respond to your individual strengths and to the increasingly specialist, complex nature of future professional life. From day one, we will support and nurture your creative voice, both in the Design Studio and in the decisions you make regarding your study options.

Design Studies BA (Hons)

Students studying K100 have the option to transfer to the Design Studies BA (Hons) programme in Year Two (please note: this programme is not RIBA-accredited). Students will specialise in the analysis and evaluation of ‘design’ understood as a complex historical and contemporary concept related to practices in architecture, planning, product manufacture, and the visual arts.

What you'll learn

  • Architectural design skills
  • The history and evolution of architecture
  • The technology and principles of construction and structural design
  • Graphical and modelling techniques
  • Design principles and philosophies
  • Current sustainability and environmental debates and measures
  • Management theory and business organisation
  • Knowledge and awareness of current and emerging technologies and their application in construction

Accreditation

This programme is validated by RIBA, prescribed by the Architects Registration Board for the purposes of admission to the UK Register of Architects, and validated by the Board of Architects Malaysia (LAM).

Accreditations in detail

Teaching Excellence Framework 2023

We’re proud to announce we’ve been awarded a Gold rating for educational excellence.

Accreditations

This programme is validated by RIBA, prescribed by the Architects Registration Board for the purposes of admission to the UK Register of Architects, and validated by the Board of Architects Malaysia (LAM).

Course content

Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.

Year one

Year one consists of compulsory modules, in which you will be introduced to the history and evolution of Architecture, developing foundational knowledge of the concepts and theories that will form the basis of the rest of your studies. We will look at the technology and principles of construction and structural design. Half of your module credits will be taken in studio design, enabling you to develop graphical and modelling techniques, and to nurture your creative voice.

Compulsory modules

CONTEXT 1.1: HISTORY OF ARCHITECTURE (ARCH171)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

History of architecture survey course.

CONTEXT 1.2 ARCHITECTURE AND THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT (ARCH121)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

The module introduces students to ways of looking at and understanding the architectural credentials of buildings. It is based on the German concept of ‘Gebäudelehre’, which translates into English as ‘building studies’. The module sits between, and is aiming to support the other module strands in year one, namely studio design; history and theory; and technology. Students are shown a series of buildings of varying sizes (XS, S, M, L, XL) and in the lectures these buildings will be presented by looking at and analysing their plans, sections, elevations, context, internal and external space, type, circulation and materiality. Furthermore, issues of private and public space and public and private buildings, ensembles, composition, symmetry / asymmetry, the repetition of elements and spaces, and fronts and backs, will be discussed. The module is aiming to equip students with tools to independently analyse and understand buildings, also with a view to enhance their design abilities. The module is delivered as a series of lectures, seminars, and (Covid-19 permitting) building visits on Campus. Assessment will be via submission of coursework.

ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN 1 (ARCH111)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

The module is an introduction to the principles of net zero carbon design.
It aims to give students an understanding of the role of a building as a modifier of climate with reference to traditional climatically responsive architecture, and the role of buildings in the context of global energy usage, environmental impact, climate change and net zero carbon design.

STUDIO 1.1: DESIGN COMMUNICATION (ARCH101)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

Studio Design Module

STUDIO 1.2: DESIGN (ARCH103)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

Architecture Studio Design

STUDIO 1.3: DESIGN (ARCH152)

Credits: 30 / Semester: semester 2

Architectural design studio

TECHNOLOGY 1.2: STRUCTURE AND CONSTRUCTION (ARCH161)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 2

Technology 1.2: Structure and Construction

Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.

Our curriculum

The Liverpool Curriculum framework sets out our distinctive approach to education. Our teaching staff support our students to develop academic knowledge, skills, and understanding alongside our graduate attributes:

  • Digital fluency
  • Confidence
  • Global citizenship

Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:

  • Research-connected teaching
  • Active learning
  • Authentic assessment

All this is underpinned by our core value of inclusivity and commitment to providing a curriculum that is accessible to all students.

Course options

Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.

Global Opportunities

University of Liverpool students can choose from an exciting range of study placements at partner universities worldwide. Choose to spend a year at XJTLU in China or a year or semester at an institution of your choice.

What's available on this course?

Year in China

Immerse yourself in Chinese culture on an optional additional year at Xi'an Jiaotong Liverpool University in stunning Suzhou.

  • Learn Chinese
  • Study in a bustling world heritage city
  • Improve employment prospects
  • Study Chinese culture
  • 30 minutes from Shanghai
  • Learn new skills

Read more about Year at XJTLU, China

Language study

Every student at The University of Liverpool can study a language as part of, or alongside their degree. You can choose:

  • A dedicated languages degree
  • A language as a joint or major/ minor degree
  • Language modules (selected degrees)
  • Language classes alongside your studies

Read more about studying a language

Study as part of XJTLU 2+2

Students studying Architecture BEng at XJTLU can study this course at the University of Liverpool. Read more about Architecture BA (Hons) as part of the 2+2 programme.

The natural next step for ambitious XJTLU students who want to build a brilliant career.

  • Spend two years at the University of Liverpool campus
  • Improve your prospects of progressing to postgraduate study at a top 100 university
  • Receive two degrees: one from XJTLU, one from the University of Liverpool
  • Get support with visas, accommodation and your career.

Read more about the 2+2 programme.

Your experience

The Liverpool School of Architecture benefits from comfortable, well-lit studio, work and seminar/review spaces, including a ‘hi-tech’ design studio, to which you will have 24-hour access.

Our facilities include a Print Media Design Suite, computing labs, workshops, a laser suite, a CNC router room, 3D printers, computing labs and research labs. A team of dedicated technicians will help you to get the most of these facilities and to realise your ideas.

Virtual tour

Supporting your learning

From arrival to alumni, we’re with you all the way:

Why study Architecture at Liverpool?

  • Established in 1894, the Liverpool School of Architecture was the first university in the UK to award a RIBA-accredited degree in Architecture
  • As one of the UK’s premier centres for architectural research and education, the Liverpool School of Architecture is the ideal place to pursue your architecture studies
  • We are ranked 9th in the UK for Architecture (The Guardian University Guide 2023) and 5th in the sector for overall research classified as world leading (4*) or internationally excellent (3*) (REF 2021)
  • We are strongly focused on research, and have many leading architectural experts based amongst our teaching staff
  • Our membership of the School of the Arts and wider University presents intriguing specialist opportunities, in fields such as autonomous building systems, arts and building design, and climate change risk mitigation
  • Work is underway on a major refurbishment of our premises, which will comprise a new-build addition of more than 2,000M. The £23 million scheme has been designed by Dublin-based architects O’Donnell + Tuomey, and is expected to be completed by 2024.

What students say...

The ambition the school of architecture has is unmatched by any other in the U.K – and it shows.

, BA (Hons) Architecture 2017, MArch Master of Architecture 2020

Careers and employability

The BA in Architecture is the first step into the profession, into which many of our graduates go. The programme is accredited by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and the Architects Registration Board (ARB), and the degree constitutes Part I of the education, which eventually leads to professional registration.

Architecture graduates can follow a few options.  Graduates who want to pursue a career in architecture are able to apply for the MArch programme, which provides the RIBA-accredited Part II.
Other careers – this programme is also an ideal preparation for further study and hugely valuable in a whole range of other careers.

Recent graduates have gone on to work in the following:

  • the Arts Council;
  • the construction industry;
  • and multidisciplinary think tanks;
  • games design and the fashion industry;
  • property development.

We also hold an End of Year Degree Show to conclude your BA studies and showcase the range of work produced during your time on the programme. We invite a number of architect firms to attend the event, many of whom have gone on to make job or work experience offers to our graduating students.

95% of students agree their main activity after graduation is meaningful.

Graduate Outcomes, 2018-19.

Fees and funding

Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.

Tuition fees

UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)
Full-time place, per year £9,250
Year in industry fee £1,850
Year abroad fee £1,385
International fees
Full-time place, per year £28,000
Year abroad fee £14,000
Fees are correct for the academic year 2024/25. Please note that the Year Abroad fee also applies to the Year in China.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support. Learn more about paying for your studies..

Additional costs

We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This includes costs for model making, printing, and materials. In years two and three there are optional international field trips that will incur additional costs of approximately £100-250.

Find out more about the additional study costs that may apply to this course.

Additional study costs

We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This includes costs for model making, printing, and materials. In years two and three there are optional international field trips that will incur additional costs of approximately £100-250.

Students should expect to cover the following costs during their architecture studies:

  • Year one: £25 model making, £50 printing, £75 materials
  • Year two: £50 model making, £50 printing, £50 materials. There is also an optional overseas fieldtrip at a cost of £100.
  • Year three: £50 model making, £50 printing, £50 materials. There is also an optional overseas fieldtrip at a cost of £250.

Find out more about additional study costs.

Scholarships and bursaries

We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries to provide tuition fee discounts and help with living expenses while at university.

Check out our Liverpool Bursary, worth up to £2,000 per year for eligible UK students. Or for international students, our Undergraduate Global Advancement Scholarship offers a tuition fee discount of up to £5,000 for eligible international students starting an undergraduate degree from September 2024.

Discover our full range of undergraduate scholarships and bursaries

Entry requirements

The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.

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Your qualification Requirements

About our typical entry requirements

A levels

AAA

Applicants with the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) are eligible for a reduction in grade requirements. For this course, the offer is AAB with A in the EPQ.

You may automatically qualify for reduced entry requirements through our contextual offers scheme.

T levels

Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction is accepted with an overall grade of Distinction to include A in the core.

Applicants should contact us by completing the enquiry form on our website to discuss specific requirements in the core components and the occupational specialism.

GCSE GCSE Maths and English grade C/4
Subject requirements

There are no specific subject requirements but you will be required to submit an art-based portfolio or attend a Selection Day. We will consider applicants with lower grades, subject to a strong portfolio submission or Selection Day attendance.

BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate

D and Grade AA at A-Level

BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma

DDD

International Baccalaureate

36 points with no score less than 4.

Irish Leaving Certificate H1, H1, H2, H2, H2, H2, H2
Scottish Higher/Advanced Higher

AAA in Advanced Highers, combinations of Advanced Highers and Scottish Highers are welcome

Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced A level grades AA are also required. We will consider applicants with lower grades, subject to a strong portfolio submission. There are no specific subject requirements but you will be required to submit an art-based portfolio or attend a Selection Day. GCSE Maths and English at Grade C/4 is required.
Access Considered if taking Art and Design Pathway. 45 Level 3 credits graded at Distinction required.
International qualifications

Many countries have a different education system to that of the UK, meaning your qualifications may not meet our entry requirements. Completing your Foundation Certificate, such as that offered by the University of Liverpool International College, means you're guaranteed a place on your chosen course.

English language requirements

You'll need to demonstrate competence in the use of English language, unless you’re from a majority English speaking country.

We accept a variety of international language tests and country-specific qualifications.

International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.

English language qualification Requirements
IELTS 6.5 overall, with no component below 5.5
TOEFL iBT 88 overall, with minimum scores of listening 17, writing 17, reading 17 and speaking 19
Duolingo English Test 120 overall, with no component below 95
Pearson PTE Academic 61 overall, with no component below 59
LanguageCert Academic 70 overall, with no skill below 60
Cambridge IGCSE First Language English 0500 Grade C overall, with a minimum of grade 2 in speaking and listening. Speaking and listening must be separately endorsed on the certificate.
Cambridge IGCSE First Language English 0990 Grade 4 overall, with Merit in speaking and listening
Cambridge IGCSE Second Language English 0510/0511 0510: Grade B overall, with a minimum of grade 2 in speaking. Speaking must be separately endorsed on the certificate. 0511: Grade B overall.
Cambridge IGCSE Second Language English 0993/0991 0993: Grade 6 overall, with a minimum of grade 2 in speaking. Speaking must be separately endorsed on the certificate. 0991: Grade 6 overall.
International Baccalaureate Grade 5 at Standard Level or grade 4 at Higher Level
Cambridge ESOL Level 2/3 Advanced 176 overall, with no paper below 162

PRE-SESSIONAL ENGLISH

Do you need to complete a Pre-Sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?

The length of Pre-Sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.

Find out the length of Pre-Sessional English course you may require for this degree.

Pre-sessional English

If you don’t meet our English language requirements, we can use your most recent IELTS score, or the equivalent score in selected other English language tests, to determine the length of Pre-Sessional English course you require.

Use the table below to check the course length you're likely to require for your current English language ability and see whether the course is available on campus or online.

Your most recent IELTS score Pre-Sessional English course length On campus or online
6.0 overall, with no component below 5.5 6 weeks On campus
5.5 overall, with no component below 5.5 10 weeks On campus and online options available
5.5 overall, with no more than one component below 5.5, and no component below 5.0 12 weeks On campus and online options available
5.5 overall, with no component below 4.5 20 weeks On campus
5.0 overall, with no component below 4.5 30 weeks On campus
4.5 overall, with no more than one component below 4.5, and no component below 4.0 40 weeks On campus

If you’ve completed an alternative English language test to IELTS, we may be able to use this to assess your English language ability and determine the Pre-Sessional English course length you require.

Please see our guide to Pre-Sessional English entry requirements for IELTS 6.5, with no component below 5.5, for further details.

Contextual offers: reduced grade requirements

Based on your personal circumstances, you may automatically qualify for up to a two-grade reduction in the entry requirements needed for this course. When you apply, we consider a range of factors – such as where you live – to assess if you’re eligible for a grade reduction. You don’t have to make an application for a grade reduction – we’ll do all the work.

Find out more about how we make reduced grade offers.

About our entry requirements

Our entry requirements may change from time to time both according to national application trends and the availability of places at Liverpool for particular courses. We review our requirements before the start of the new UCAS cycle each year and publish any changes on our website so that applicants are aware of our typical entry requirements before they submit their application.

Recent changes to government policy which determine the number of students individual institutions may admit under the student number control also have a bearing on our entry requirements and acceptance levels, as this policy may result in us having fewer places than in previous years.

We believe in treating applicants as individuals, and in making offers that are appropriate to their personal circumstances and background. For this reason, we consider a range of factors in addition to predicted grades, widening participation factors amongst other evidence provided. Therefore the offer any individual applicant receives may differ slightly from the typical offer quoted in the prospectus and on the website.

Alternative entry requirements

  • If your qualification isn't listed here, or you're taking a combination of qualifications, contact us for advice
  • If you are returning to learning, have had a disrupted education or are switching career pathways, the one-year Go Higher diploma qualifies you to apply for University of Liverpool arts, humanities and social sciences programmes
  • Applications from mature students are welcome.

Changes to Architecture BA (Hons)

See what updates we've made to this course since it was published. We document changes to information such as course content, entry requirements and how you'll be taught.

7 June 2022: New course pages

New course pages launched.