Integrated Architectural Design (MIAD)

Globalisation in general and the construction industry in particular have brought about new demands on buildings and construction projects, new demands that also take into account local conditions. Planning is also changing in line with the new requirements. Moreover, digital technology has also effected lasting changes to architecture, from the planning and production stage right through to execution, and job profiles are accordingly getting more sophisticated. The Master's programme thus places a particular emphasis on theoretical and practice-oriented skills of digital analysis, design, planning, and production methods, in addition to the traditional design and planning methods. It also gives a detailed overview of the latest technological developments.

Additionally, the programme includes operative aspects of information technology, new developments in building materials, and scientific work in architectural education. The programme also includes interaction/cooperation with external partners and international networks. It focuses on qualifying architects and engineers for interdisciplinary, international, and, to a growing extent, digitally supported jobs. We attach special importance to our cooperation between university and external partners, links to other universities, planning offices, the construction industry, and to software manufacturers.

The standard study period is four semesters. The specialisation Architectural Design is taught in German and English. Facade Design and Computational Design are only taught in English.

The specialisation Architectural Design responds to these requirements by putting energy-efficient, resource-saving and also human- and context-orientated design in the focus of an holistic architectural education. This allows students to fulfil all architectural tasks and enables them to work in interdisciplinary fields. The programme imparts creativity and social and intellectual maturity integrated into a project-based study. Additionally application-related research experience is gained, and the ability of dialogue and teamwork as part of a collaborative work process is developed.

The specialisation Facade Design provides an extensive overview and the scientific foundations of the field of facade planning and consulting. Facade planning is indisputably high on the list of the most demanding and versatile professional specialisations. Here, legal, physical, material-technology, structural design, and in particular architectural and aesthetic issues converge.

The specialisation Computational Design focuses on digital design methods and construction technologies in architecture, engineering, and design. The curriculum provides a scientific and practical foundation and gives an overview of latest developments in computational design and construction.

Educational organisation

First Semester:

• Tools 1
• Construction and Dimensioning
• Project City / Project Facade Design / Project Computational Design
• Urban Design

Specialisation Facade Design:

• Climate and Comfort

Specialisation Computational Design:

• Programming and Simulation

Second Semester:

• Tools 2
• Theory and Scientific Methods
• Project Integrated Building and Design
• Re-Use

Specialisation Facade Design:

• Planning, Detailing and Production

Specialisation Computational Design:

• Digital Fabrication

Third Semester:

• Conference and Communication
• Project Contextual Design
• Sustainable Construction
• Elective from catalogue

Specialisation Facade Design:

• Facade Design and Construction
• Materials, Surfaces and Safety

Specialisation Computational Design:

• Computational Architectural Design
• Computational Optimisation

Fourth Semester:

• Thesis incl. Colloquium

Compulsory Electives:

• Specialisation Design
• Specialisation Construction
• Specialisation Programming
• Specialisation Theory
• Specialisation Visualising
• Technical English II
• Business start-up / Career start

Part-time studies are possible upon request.

Study abroad unit(s)

Cooperation workshops and conferences at the partner universities

Forms of assessment

Information on all examinations and the number of credits is available in the Master's examination regulations at:
http://www.hs-owl.de/fb1/studium/master-studiengaenge/architektur.html

Course objectives

The aim of the course is to assist students to acquire scientific knowledge and professional approaches to technical challenges in the field of construction and design. After the course, students should be able to develop and provide solutions to complex problems in practice, research and development.

A strong practical focus arises from the close cooperation with the participating companies, who supply up-to-date know-how on state-of-the-art technical trends. Furthermore, external specialists and partner universities present innovative trends and current developments in research. As a full-time study programme, the course opens up a future-oriented perspective that will support your previous qualification and professional experience.

Language requirements

Evidence of English proficiency documented by one of the following tests or certificates, with the indicated minimum score (for those who obtained their university entrance qualification at a non-English speaking institution):

• at least six years of English in school education with a minimum grade "4 - ausreichend" ("satisfactory" in the German grading system) in the last four semesters
• TOEFL paper-based 550
• TOEFL Internet-based (ibt) 79-80
• TOEFL computer-based 213
• TOEIC 750
• IELTS 6.5 - 7.0
• Cambridge CPE/CAE pass
• Proof of an equal standard

Evidence of German proficiency documented by one of the following tests or certificates, with the indicated minimum score (only for those who want to apply for the specialisation Architectural Design and who obtained their university entrance qualification at a non-German speaking institution):

• B2 Sprachnachweis (language certificate)
• Respective TestDaf

Academic requirements

Qualification for the Master of Integrated Architectural Design (MIAD) shall be documented by:

1. University entrance qualification or an equal standard (e.g., secondary school graduation certificate) and a Bachelor's degree or diploma certificate in Architecture with a minimum study duration of six semesters (180 Credits)

2. Evidence of German proficiency and / or evidence of English proficiency

3. Evidence of the specific, that is, professional and methodological suitability for the Master of Integrated Architectural Design (MIAD)

4. Portfolio: Applicants must submit a portfolio that includes some of their most important and relevant works related to urban, architectural, building or façade design and/or construction.

• Work samples according to the following should be submitted on a CD-ROM or as PDF:
• Three work samples from the previous course of study or professional experience, one of which, if possible, is the Bachelor's or Master's thesis or comparable final examination
• Two to three smaller work samples which demonstrate additional interests and specialised fields
• Up to two samples can be parts of team projects, if the contribution of the applicant is indicated and clearly recognisable. The work samples must be submitted in a DIN A4-sized portfolio in a suitable data format such as PDF.
• A written explanation by the applicant describing the projects and the concepts behind each project. In the case of team work, the applicant should clearly indicate her/his role in the project. Limit your letter to one page!
• A written declaration that the applicant has produced the work samples on her or his own

5. Motivation letter and a resume: Applicants must submit a motivation letter that should address their background as it relates to the requested specialisation (Architectural Design, Facade Design or Computational Design).

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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

Enrolment fees

Approx. 268 EUR per semester

Costs of living

In addition to the enrolment fees, secondary expenses will occur for lectures and courses that are not held on our campus in Detmold. Additional expenses for travelling, accommodation and living will be incurred during the study programme. We always try to keep these expenses to a minimum.

Arrival support

Our International Office is responsible for service and support for international students. For more information, see:
http://www.hs-owl.de/fb1/international.html
or
https://www.hs-owl.de/international/kontakt-international-office.html

Accommodation

Accommodation is available through the Student Services Office or on the private market.
Information can be found on the Internet at:
https://www.hs-owl.de/studium/wohnen-in-owl.html
or
http://www.hs-owl.de/fb1/international.html