Architectural and Interdisciplinary Studies with a Year Abroad

The Architectural and Interdisciplinary Studies with a Year Abroad programme at University College London offers a comprehensive and innovative educational experience designed to prepare students for the diverse challenges of contemporary architecture and related disciplines. This programme combines a solid foundation in architectural principles with the flexibility to explore interdisciplinary fields, enabling students to develop a broad skill set that includes design, theoretical analysis, technical knowledge, and contextual understanding. The inclusion of a Year Abroad provides students with the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in different cultural and academic environments, fostering global perspectives and enhancing their adaptability in an increasingly interconnected world. Throughout the course, students engage in critical thinking, creative problem-solving, and collaborative projects, often working closely with faculty and industry professionals to address real-world issues. The curriculum emphasizes sustainable practices, innovative use of technology, and socially responsible design, aligning with contemporary trends and future needs in architectural practice. Students also benefit from UCL’s extensive network of research centers, laboratories, and partnerships, which support a forward-looking, interdisciplinary approach. By the end of the programme, graduates are equipped with the academic knowledge, practical skills, and international outlook necessary to pursue careers in architecture, urban planning, design consultancy, or further academic research. The programme’s structure ensures a balanced integration of theoretical coursework and practical application, fostering a well-rounded and globally-minded architectural mindset. This vibrant and challenging course prepares students not only to excel in professional environments but also to contribute meaningfully to the development of sustainable, innovative, and culturally responsive built environments worldwide.

Year 1

Core or compulsory module(s)

You will be expected to take 2.5 credits of modules from within The Bartlett. These normally include:

Architectural Research I
Media Studies: Looking, Making and Communicating
Making Cities: Production of the Built Environment
Project X: Design and Creative Practice I
The Historical and Cultural Production of Cities and their Architecture.

Optional modules

In addition, you will select 1.5 credits of modules from a wide range within both The Bartlett and more widely across UCL (e.g. in anthropology, archaeology, history of art, economics, philosophy, psychology, and from the School of European Languages, Culture & Society).

Year 2

Core or compulsory module(s)

You will be expected to take 2.5 credits of modules from within The Bartlett. These could include:

Architectural Research II
Computing for Design and Creative Practice
History & Theory of Architecture
Project X: Design and Creative Practice 2

Optional modules

The remaining 1.5 credits of modules are selected from a wide range within both The Bartlett and more widely across UCL (e.g. in anthropology, archaeology, history of art, economics, philosophy, psychology, and from the School of European Languages, Culture & Society).

Year 3

Year abroad

You will spend your third year abroad.

Year 4

Core or compulsory module(s)

You will be expected to take 2.5 credits of modules from within The Bartlett. In the final year, these must include:

Project X: Design and Creative Practice 3 and/or Dissertation in Architectural Studies.

Other modules normally taken include:

History and Theory of Architecture

Optional modules

The remaining 1.5 credits of modules are selected from a wide range within both The Bartlett and more widely across UCL (e.g. in anthropology, archaeology, history of art, economics, philosophy, psychology, and from the School of European Languages, Culture and Society).

A levels

Grades

AAB

Subjects

No specific subjects. Comprehensive portfolio of creative work required upon invitation, at application stage.

GCSEs

English Language and Mathematics at grade C. For UK-based students, a grade C or equivalent in a foreign language (other than Ancient Greek, Biblical Hebrew or Latin) is required. UCL provides opportunities to meet the foreign language requirement following enrolment, further details at: www.ucl.ac.uk/ug-reqs

IB Diploma

Points

36

Subjects

A score of 17 points in three higher level subjects, with no score lower than 5. No specific subjects are required but a comprehensive portfolio of creative work is required upon invitation, at application stage.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Architectural and Interdisciplinary Studies with a Year Abroad program at University College London offers a comprehensive financing structure to support students throughout their academic journey. Tuition fees for home (UK) students are set at a competitive rate, with detailed information available on the university's official website, allowing applicants to plan their financial commitments accordingly. International students are subject to different fee structures, which reflect the global standing and resources of UCL. In addition to tuition fees, students should consider living expenses, including accommodation, food, transportation, and study materials, which vary depending on the city of London’s cost of living.

UCL provides a range of funding options and financial aid opportunities to assist students. Scholarships are available for outstanding applicants, often based on academic merit or geographic origin, and they can significantly offset tuition costs. There are also bursaries and grants designed to support students facing financial hardship. For those enrolled in the program, UCL offers student loans in collaboration with government agencies, enabling eligible students to access low-interest loans to cover their tuition and living expenses.

Furthermore, the program encourages students to seek external funding sources such as private scholarships, sponsorships, and international grants, which can be obtained through various governmental and non-governmental organizations. The university’s financial aid office provides detailed guidance on eligible programs and application procedures, ensuring students can maximize their financial support.

Students are also advised to explore part-time work opportunities available in and around London, subject to visa regulations for international students. These jobs can help students gain valuable experience while earning supplementary income. UCL’s career services assist students in finding part-time employment linked to their academic and career interests.

Overall, the financing of the Architectural and Interdisciplinary Studies with a Year Abroad program is designed to be accessible and supportive, combining institutional funding options, external scholarships, and personal financial planning to enable students from diverse backgrounds to pursue their educational objectives at UCL.

Architectural and Interdisciplinary Studies with a Year Abroad at University College London offers students a comprehensive and innovative approach to architecture, combining traditional architectural education with interdisciplinary perspectives. The program is designed to foster critical thinking, creativity, and technical skills, preparing students for diverse careers in architecture, urban planning, and related fields. The curriculum emphasizes a broad-based understanding of design, technology, and cultural context, integrating modules from disciplines such as history, theory, and environmental studies. A distinctive feature of the program is the opportunity for students to spend a year abroad, typically at partner universities across Europe or other regions, allowing them to gain international experience and broaden their academic and cultural horizons. This year abroad enriches students’ learning by exposing them to different architectural practices, urban environments, and cultural influences, fostering a global perspective essential in today’s interconnected world. The program benefits from UCL's reputation as a leading research university and its strong connections with industry and professional bodies, providing students with excellent networking opportunities and access to cutting-edge research. The teaching language is English, and the program is designed to be accessible to students from diverse backgrounds. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue further study or professional careers in architecture, design, research, or related interdisciplinary fields, benefitting from a rigorous academic foundation combined with practical experience and international exposure. The integration of interdisciplinary studies ensures students can approach architectural problems from multiple perspectives, encouraging innovation and holistic solutions. The program also emphasizes sustainability, digital fabrication, and innovative design methodologies, aligning with contemporary trends and future challenges in architecture and urban development.