The Architecture and Urban Studies program at the University of Cambridge offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary curriculum designed to cultivate a deep understanding of the physical, social, and cultural dimensions of built environments. This program provides students with a unique opportunity to explore architecture from both theoretical and practical perspectives, integrating design, history, theory, and urban planning. Students engage with a diverse range of disciplines, including architectural design, urbanism, heritage conservation, and sustainability, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to address contemporary challenges in urban development and architectural practice. The program emphasizes critical thinking, creative problem-solving, and innovative design, supported by state-of-the-art facilities and access to renowned faculty members who are experts in their fields. Through a combination of lectures, seminars, studio work, and field trips, students develop a rigorous understanding of architectural principles alongside an appreciation for the social and environmental contexts that influence urban landscapes. The curriculum encourages an active engagement with current global issues such as climate change, urban inequality, and technological advancements, fostering a responsible and forward-thinking approach to architecture and urban planning. Students are also encouraged to undertake independent research, participate in collaborative projects, and gain practical experience through internships and site visits. The program aims to prepare graduates not only for careers in architecture and urban design but also for roles in related sectors like policy-making, heritage management, and environmental consultancy. Graduates of this program are well-equipped to contribute innovatively to the development of sustainable, inclusive, and resilient built environments, making a positive impact on communities worldwide.

Teaching is delivered through combination of lectures, seminars and workshops, which are supported by individual supervisions. Individual supervisions are an essential part of the programme, they help to assist, direct and monitor progress of students' work while, at the same time, help to provide continuous feedback throughout the course.

The weekly lectures and seminars, plus additional research workshops, provide a framework to explore a variety of research approaches from a range of relevant disciplines available in the Department. Students receive general seminars and specific guidance on research methods, the use of libraries, and writing techniques. An initial selected bibliography is provided prior to the start of the course to allow students to begin their preparation. Upon arrival to Cambridge, the bibliography is supplemented by guidance on further reading in the seminars and supervisions. Guidelines on coursework essays and dissertations are given in general terms and more specifically in supervisions. Research methods, techniques and analytical skills are developed through the lectures, coursework and a dedicated training course.

The teaching methodology also includes individual research activities, oral presentations and written essays to encourage students to identify and solve problems. These activities are supported by regular feedback sessions and in supervisions. This methodology, particularly through specialist supervisions, is built upon when the student embarks on their independent dissertation/ design thesis research programme.

Students are also offered a series of hands-on workshops on computer modelling, physical laboratory testing and receive guidance on the use of environmental sensors and loggers.

The course is intense and demands effective time management.

Assessment

Thesis

The dissertation of not more than 20,000 words represents 50% of the overall mark. The word count includes footnotes but excludes the bibliography. Any appendices will require the formal permission of your Supervisor who may consult the Degree Committee. Students submit two hard copies and one electronic copy of their thesis for examination during May.

An oral examination (viva voce) on the dissertation and on the general field of knowledge within which the work submitted falls may be required. Students must remain in or be prepared to return to Cambridge for such oral examination, which will be held in June. 

Essays

Three essays of 3,000 - 5,000 words including footnotes but excluding the bibliography, on topics approved by your supervisor and the Faculty will be presented for examination. One will be submitted at the end of the Michaelmas (Winter) term and the additional two at the end of the Lent (Spring) term respectively. The three essays represent 50% of the total mark.  

Students must submit two bound paper copies and one electronic copy of each essay, with a bibliography and any relevant illustrations to be submitted with the text. 

Other

Students undertake  a review of their work on a termly basis day which take place at the end of the Michaelmas (Autumn) and Lent (Spring) Terms and the beginning of the Easter (Summer) Term. Students present their work to a supportive forum which will include academic critics who will provide constructive criticism about the students' proposed essays and dissertations.

The reviews are intended to be constructive events which will benefit the writing up of work. They are also an opportunity for candidates to test out ideas with experts in a supportive forum.

Candidates are not awarded a mark for their performance at review although it is expected that their performance will impact on the marks awarded.

• Magistr (Master's Degree) at Pass level. Diploma Specialista (completed post-1991) with a minimum overall grade of good or 4/5 Bachelor's from Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology and other prestigious institutions with an overall grade of 4/5 Bologna Bachelor's from other institutions with an overall grade of 5/5, Excellent
• Diploma Specialista (completed post-1991) with a minimum overall grade of Excellent or 5/5 Bachelor's from Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology and other prestigious institutions with an overall grade of 5/5
• IELTS (Academic) 7.5
• TOEFL Internet Score 110
• £50 application fee
• First Academic Reference
• Second Academic Reference
• Transcript
• Sample of Work. A sample of work could be a journal publication or a chapter from your undergraduate dissertation. Please note: continuers from departments other than Architecture will need to provide a sample of work.
• Research Proposal. A research proposal of 1000 - 1500 words should consist of a topic and a hypothesis, a literature review, a statement on method, and key references.
• Portfolio.Applicants with a design background may provide a copy of their portfolio (6 A4 pages at a maximum) but this is not mandatory. Please do not send a hard copy of your portfolio to the Department.
• Personal Reference

The Financing of the Architecture and Urban Studies program at the University of Cambridge typically comprises a combination of tuition fees, maintenance costs, and additional expenses related to academic resources and fieldwork. Tuition fees vary depending on the student's domicile and the specific year of study; for UK students, the current annual fee for postgraduate programs is approximately £9,250, while international students may pay between £25,000 and £32,000 per year. These fees are subject to annual increases and should be confirmed on the university’s official website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

In addition to tuition, students need to budget for living expenses, which include accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses. Cambridge's cost of living is relatively high, with estimated annual living expenses ranging from £12,000 to £15,000 for students residing in university accommodation or private housing. Students are encouraged to seek scholarships, awards, or bursaries that the university offers to help offset some of these costs. The university provides various funding options based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria related to the field of study.

Graduate students in Architecture and Urban Studies may also have opportunities for financial support through research grants, teaching assistantships, or project-based funding, which can provide additional income and reduce the financial burden. Some students also consider external funding sources such as government loans, private scholarships, or sponsorships from industry partners.

The University of Cambridge is committed to supporting its students financially and offers detailed guidance on application procedures for financial aid during the admissions process. It is recommended that prospective students start exploring funding options early, as application deadlines for scholarships and funding opportunities often precede the start of the academic year. Overall, financing a degree in Architecture and Urban Studies at Cambridge involves careful planning and consideration of both direct educational costs and related living expenses, with numerous support options available to help students achieve their academic and professional goals.

The Architecture and Urban Studies programme at the University of Cambridge offers students a comprehensive education in the planning, design, and development of built environments, combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills. The course is designed to equip students with a deep understanding of architectural principles, urban planning processes, sustainable development, and the historical and cultural contexts that influence urban design. The programme emphasizes critical thinking, innovative design approaches, and a thorough understanding of the social, environmental, and technological factors shaping cities today.

Students enrolled in this programme have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including design studios, digital fabrication labs, and extensive library resources. The curriculum integrates lectures, seminars, field visits, and project work, enabling students to develop their ideas from conceptual sketches through to detailed models and presentations. The programme also encourages collaborative learning through group projects and interactions with professionals in the field, fostering teamwork and real-world problem-solving skills.

The course commonly involves a blend of core modules covering architecture history, urban theory, environmental sustainability, and technical design methods, alongside elective options allowing students to tailor their studies according to their interests. Applied research and critique are core components, with students often working on projects related to urban regeneration, affordable housing, historic preservation, or innovative urban infrastructure. The programme also promotes engagement with contemporary issues such as climate resilience, social equity, and smart city technologies.

In addition to academic coursework, students benefit from opportunities to participate in internships, travel to relevant project sites, attend conferences, and collaborate with local communities and government bodies. The programme's strong emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches prepares graduates for diverse careers in architecture, urban planning, landscape design, and related fields. Graduates of the programme are well-equipped to pursue professional accreditation and undertake further postgraduate study, including research degrees or professional training in architecture and urban design.

Overall, the Architecture and Urban Studies program at Cambridge aims to produce forward-thinking professionals capable of shaping sustainable, innovative, and inclusive urban environments for the future.