The Architecture program at the University of Cambridge offers a rigorous and comprehensive education designed to develop students' skills in design, technical understanding, and critical thinking. The course combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, allowing students to explore the cultural, historical, and environmental contexts of architecture. Throughout the program, students engage with a diverse range of design projects, workshops, and seminars led by renowned faculty members and industry professionals. Emphasis is placed on fostering creativity, innovation, and an understanding of sustainable practices to prepare graduates for careers in architecture, urban planning, and related fields. The curriculum integrates foundational architectural principles with advanced topics such as digital modeling, structural analysis, and conservation. Students are encouraged to explore interdisciplinary approaches and participate in collaborative projects that simulate real-world architectural challenges. The program also provides opportunities for international exchanges and placements, enriching students' global perspective and professional network. State-of-the-art facilities, including design studios, workshops, and digital labs, support hands-on learning and experimentation. Graduates of the Cambridge Architecture program are well-equipped to contribute meaningfully to the built environment, whether in design, research, or policy development. The program fosters a supportive academic community dedicated to excellence, innovation, and integrity in architectural practice.

Feedback

Students will be provided with feedback via review exercises, supervisions and the supervisor's termly reports.

Assessment

Thesis

The oral examination of a thesis which does not exceed 80,000 words.  Footnotes, references and text within tables are to be counted within the word-limit, but captions, appendices and bibliographies are excluded. Appendices (of no determined word length) may be permitted subject to the approval of the candidate's Supervisor (in consultation with the Degree Committee).   Appendices should be confined to such items as catalogues, original texts, translations of texts, transcriptions of interview, or tables. Permission to include such appendices must be requested well in advance of the submission of the final thesis. 

The examination is conducted by two examiners and is usually held at the Faculty.

Other

Candidates for the PhD are reviewed formally on an annual basis.  In the third term, candidates submit a First Year Paper.  Candidates’ reports are assessed by two assessors and the candidate is invited to attend an oral assessment. 

During their sixth term, candidates are required to give a presentation of their work to the Graduate Director(s), their Supervisor and any other appropriate assessor approved by the Supervisor.   The candidate’s progress is assessed and documented in a short report.  

The tenth term review ensures that candidates are on track to submit by the end of their fourth year at the very latest.  

Candidates submit a log of their research activity which is assessed at each of the annual reviews described above. 

• 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. Please note: applicants who are currently undertaking a graduate course at Cambridge from departments other than Architecture will need to provide the contact details of a second referee for admission to this Department.
• Transcript. Please note: applicants who are currently undertaking a graduate course at Cambridge from departments other than Architecture will need to provide a transcript for admission to this Department.
• Sample of Work. A sample of work could be a journal publication or a chapter from your undergraduate dissertation. Please note: applicants who are currently undertaking a graduate course at Cambridge 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.
• Personal Reference

Financing studies for the Architecture program at the University of Cambridge are designed to be accessible to a wide range of students, with a variety of funding options available. Scholarships and bursaries are offered based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria such as demographics or country of origin. The university provides several merit-based scholarships, which do not require repayment, to outstanding applicants during the admission process. Additionally, students may apply for need-based bursaries to support their living costs, which are assessed through a comprehensive financial background review.

Students are encouraged to explore external funding sources, including government-sponsored loans, grants, and scholarships available in their home countries or internationally. The UK government offers student loans for those enrolled in full-time degree programs, which cover tuition fees and living expenses, repayable after graduation based on income level. International students may seek scholarships offered by government schemes, charitable foundations, or industry partners associated with architecture and design.

The university’s financial aid office provides detailed guidance and assistance, helping students identify suitable funding opportunities and understand application procedures. For those enrolled in the program, work-study options may be available, enabling students to gain practical experience and supplement their income during their studies. The university also emphasizes transparency in the cost structure, listing tuition fees clearly for each academic year, and provides information about additional expenses such as study materials, field trips, and accommodation.

In summary, financing studies at the University of Cambridge’s Architecture program combines institutional scholarships, government support, external funding, and work opportunities, creating a comprehensive support system aimed at making education financially feasible for qualified students from diverse backgrounds.

The University of Cambridge offers a distinguished Architecture program designed to develop students' creative, technical, and critical thinking skills necessary for a successful career in the built environment. The program combines rigorous academic coursework with practical experience, encouraging students to explore innovative design concepts while understanding the social, environmental, and historical contexts of architecture. Throughout the course, students engage in a variety of projects, workshops, and studio work that emphasize both individual creativity and collaborative problem-solving. The curriculum covers core topics such as architectural design, history and theory, building technology, structural engineering, and environmental sustainability. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated studios, workshops, and digital design labs, to support their learning and experimentation. The program aims to cultivate architectural excellence, critical analysis, and ethical responsibility, preparing graduates for a wide range of careers in architecture, urban planning, conservation, and related fields. As part of the University of Cambridge, students benefit from a rich academic environment, distinguished faculty, and extensive research opportunities. The program typically includes opportunities for internships, placements, and collaborations with industry professionals to enhance practical skills and employability. The duration of the undergraduate degree is normally three years, leading to a BA (Hons) in Architecture, while postgraduate options may include more specialized advanced degrees. Entry requirements are competitive and usually involve a robust portfolio submission, academic qualifications, and sometimes an interview process. The program emphasizes sustainable design principles, innovative use of materials, and the integration of new technologies to meet modern architectural challenges. Graduates from the Cambridge Architecture program are highly sought after in the professional world, with alumni often progressing to prominent architectural firms, academic research, and governmental agencies. Overall, the program's approach integrates tradition with innovation, fostering a comprehensive understanding of architecture's role in society and its potential to effect positive change.