Architectural Design

The Bachelor of Architectural Design program at University College London (UCL) is a comprehensive and rigorous undergraduate degree that prepares students to become innovative and responsible architects capable of shaping the built environment. This program combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, emphasizing creative design, structural understanding, sustainability, and technological integration. Throughout the course, students engage in a diverse range of projects that challenge their spatial awareness, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities. The curriculum is structured to foster an understanding of architectural history, contextual analysis, and contemporary architectural practices, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to meet the demands of the evolving profession.

Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, including design studios, workshops, and digital fabrication labs, which support hands-on learning and experimentation. The program encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, inviting input from related fields such as urban planning, landscape architecture, and engineering. Emphasizing sustainability and environmental responsibility, the curriculum integrates green design principles and innovative technologies aimed at reducing the environmental impact of architectural solutions.

The program also features opportunities for real-world experience through industry partnerships, internships, and live projects with clients and communities. Students develop a professional portfolio that showcases their design capabilities, technical mastery, and conceptual thinking. Faculty members are experienced practitioners and researchers who provide mentorship and guidance, fostering a vibrant academic community. Graduates of the program are well-prepared for careers in architecture, urban design, and related fields, or for further studies such as a Master’s in Architecture or specialized postgraduate programs. With an emphasis on creativity, technical competence, and ethical responsibility, the Bachelor of Architectural Design at UCL offers a pathway to becoming a visionary architect committed to sustainable and innovative built environments.

The programme aims to develop the student's interest and knowledge of architectural and adjacent design fields, with the emphasis on the latest technological and scientific advances, particularly advanced research on computation and robotics. In so doing it promotes cutting-edge approaches to architecture and design in the wider context of society.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

Students are introduced to the theoretical concepts which underpin the MArch programme through lectures and initial design projects. Students then undertake a thesis project, report and work in specialist teaching groups. Modules are design-based with specialist lecture input.

Core modules

• Architectural Design: Historical, Cultural and Theoretical Skills (15 credits)
• Design Thesis Report (30 credits)
• Bartlett Architecture Skills Elective (15 credits)
• Architectural Design Thesis Initial Projects (45 credits)
• Architectural Design Thesis Final Project (75 credits)

Research project/design project

The programme culminates with students undertaking a major design project, the 'Architectural Design Final Project' in combination with an individual written submission, the 'Design Thesis Report'.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, site visits and workshops, and incorporates both individual and group working. Assessment is through coursework assignments, essays, presentations and portfolio examinations.

Fieldwork

There is one field trip (optional) annually as part of the programme.

The maximum cost to the student is £500.

Normally a minimum of a second-class Bachelor's degree from a UK university or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard, or a degree of lower classification in a subject appropriate to the programme, plus extensive professional experience in the field at a senior level. For applicants without a first degree or full professional membership, but with relevant and substantial work experience in the field, a special qualifying examination may be set. Details of this route can be obtained from the Bartlett's Faculty Office. Candidates will be asked to submit a portfolio of their design work once their completed application has been received by the department, and should not send or upload work until it has been requested.

The Bachelor of Arts in Architectural Design at University College London offers a range of financing options to support students throughout their studies. Prospective students are encouraged to explore multiple sources of funding to help manage tuition fees and living expenses. UCL provides various scholarships and bursaries based on academic merit, need, or specific criteria such as nationality or course choice. The UCL Undergraduate Bursary, for instance, offers financial support for eligible students from less advantaged backgrounds, which can significantly ease the financial burden during the course. Additionally, there are government funding options such as student loans available to UK residents, which can cover tuition fees and living costs, repayable after graduation based on income. International students may need to secure private funding or sponsor support, as some UK government loans are not accessible to them. External scholarships from charitable organizations, foundations, and professional bodies also provide funding opportunities; these are often competitive and require strong academic records and personal statements. Work placements or part-time jobs can supplement income, and UCL’s career services assist students in finding appropriate employment opportunities. Furthermore, students are advised to plan their finances carefully, considering costs related to materials, field trips, and accommodation. The university’s financial aid office provides detailed guidance and resources for students seeking financial assistance. Overall, while there are comprehensive funding options available at UCL for Architectural Design students, securing adequate financing requires proactive planning and application for multiple sources of support.

The Bachelor of Arts in Architectural Design at University College London (UCL) is a comprehensive undergraduate program that aims to equip students with the creative, technical, and critical skills necessary to excel in the field of architecture. The program’s curriculum combines rigorous design studios, theoretical courses, and technical training, fostering a multidisciplinary approach to architectural practice. Students engage in hands-on projects that encourage innovative thinking, spatial understanding, and sustainable design principles. UCL’s architecture program emphasizes the importance of context, culture, and environmental responsibility, preparing graduates to address complex urban and rural challenges.

Throughout the course, students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated studios, computer labs, and architecture workshops. They are encouraged to participate in live projects, competitions, and collaborations with industry professionals to gain real-world experience. The program also offers opportunities for international exchanges, enabling students to broaden their global perspective on architecture and design. Critical analysis and historical understanding are integral parts of the curriculum, helping students develop a nuanced appreciation of architectural heritage and contemporary practices.

Graduates of the program are well-prepared for careers in architecture, urban planning, interior design, and related fields. Many alumni pursue further postgraduate study at prestigious institutions worldwide or join leading architecture firms. The program’s emphasis on sustainability, innovation, and user-centered design aligns with current industry demands, making UCL’s Architectural Design degree a highly regarded qualification in the professional landscape. Students benefit from strong links with industry partners, a vibrant academic community, and dedicated support services to help them succeed academically and professionally.