MArch Master of Architecture International

The MArch (International) course is divided into three levels - the Postgraduate Certificate, the Postgraduate Diploma, and the Masters Thesis. Each level is worth 60 CATS points of study and generally corresponds to a semester of full-time study.

Level One - Postgraduate Certificate in Architecture (International)

Architecture Studio Project 1

The module introduces basic principles of design research and then moves on to consider more advanced theoretical and practical issues relating to multidisciplinary and cross-cultural knowledge and practice. Students are expected to demonstrate a wide range of skills and knowledge in planning, implementing, documenting and presenting a group or individually negotiated project. Theoretical investigation is integrated throughout the module with lectures, readings, films and discussion seminars.

Research Methods

The module begins with an introduction to basic research skills, followed by an overview of critical paradigms that may be used to underpin research efforts leading to either written or design outcomes. This module is a prerequisite for the Independent Research Project.

Level Two - Postgraduate Diploma in Architecture (International)

Architecture Studio Project 2

This module builds on Studio Project 1 in the PG Certificate stage. It provides an opportunity for students to engage critically with current theoretical debates in architecture and to pursue more advanced specialist design research in a manner that is theoretically rigorous. The project is a vehicle for in-depth investigation of social, professional and methodological issues relating to specialist practice. It offers scope for students to develop a wide range of skills and knowledge in planning, implementing, documenting and presenting a group or individually negotiated project.

Independent Research Project

Students investigate the social and cultural contexts of a specialist area of practice as they plan and undertake an independently managed research study on a topic of their choice. Regular seminars and group tutorials guide students through a staged process of research, with selected stages requiring the submission of an appropriate piece of work for formative assessment.

Level Three – Master of Architecture (International)

Masters Thesis

This module requires the completion of a substantial and demanding piece of work designed to develop advanced capabilities. The work is a focus for the integration of various elements of the programme and encourages students to develop and demonstrate powers of rigorous analysis, critical enquiry, clear expression and independent judgement. The Masters Thesis may be a written dissertation or an equivalent design project with combined elements, including a critical research report.

The teaching and learning strategy adopted for the MArch (International) offers a balanced programme of study with opportunities for theoretical investigation, project development and independent research fully integrated throughout the programme. The approach to teaching and learning is based on evaluating the skills, knowledge and interests that students bring with them to the course and constructing a variety of learning experiences that respond to each student’s individual needs and requirements. Above all, the teaching team acknowledges and values the diverse backgrounds and experiences of students who come from all over the world. The programme’s teaching and learning strategy aims to build on this diversity whilst simultaneously motivating students to expand their horizons and acquire advanced skills and knowledge in architecture.

Learning is facilitated by a staff team whose varied interests and expertise span a range of specialised programmes. The team takes equal responsibility for syllabus planning, content integration, classroom facilitation and evaluation. Team teaching exposes students to different positions, helps them develop a high regard for diversity and collective responsibility, and supports collaborative knowledge construction.

Students are encouraged to adapt the programme of learning in the design studio to reflect their own interests, exploring design problems in projects that are negotiated with programme tutors.

Previous students have explored flood-resilient and floating architecture as a response to rising sea levels in the Maldives and in the East Coast of England. Some have examined questions of cultural identity in the design of residential development in Mexico, India and Nigeria, while others have explored sustainable design and construction in various international contexts.

Groups of students have also worked on live consultancy projects in the UK, looking at possibilities for the redevelopment of the site for Lincoln City’s football stadium or producing proposals for upgrading the historic core of Ely town centre in Cambridgeshire.

The team of academics responsible for the MArch (International) programme engage in teaching, research and design practice in the Lincoln School of Architecture as part of the Liveable Cities Research and Consultancy Group. Our international team comprises qualified architects, planners, participatory design specialists, urban conservationists and architectural historians. Students have an opportunity to engage with the team to explore specialist areas of design practice and theory such as urban design, urban conservation, development and regeneration, urban planning, sustainable design, participatory design and architectural theory.

Masters study trips are often tied to studio projects and usually combine workshops and visiting speakers with visits to landmark buildings and other sites of interests. In recent years, groups have travelled to places in the UK, such as Cambridge and Edinburgh, to European destinations overseas including Brussels, Venice, Barcelona and Paris, as well as further afield to India and Sri Lanka. In another study trip students spent a week in Poland studying urban housing problems alongside a group from the Faculty of Architecture, Wroclaw University of Technology.

In a competitive industry such as architecture, a Masters qualification provides a distinct advantage and may, in some cases, be mandatory for career advancement. For those already in senior positions, acquiring a postgraduate degree may enhance career opportunities or give an opportunity to pursue special interests. It will also provide a focus for developing a deeper understanding of professional activities.

For information about fees, scholarships and bursaries please see our Fees & Funding pages.

Fees and Funding

aadenquiries@lincoln.ac.uk

Telephone: +44 (0)1522 837437

Online applications for Postgraduate study can be made at the top right of course information pages.

Portfolios and interviews

Students who have previously studied at the University of Lincoln and achieved a 2.1 grade or above do not need to submit a portfolio and will most likely be offered an automatic place on the MArch.

All other students (regardless of grades) will need to send in a portfolio for review (PDF or web) and or attend an interview.

Portfolios should demonstrate a range of practical skills, such as pencil drawing techniques, computer-aided design drawing, photography, model making, perspective drawing or technical drawing. The portfolio should especially include final level degree work showing the full development of projects, including the brief, site analysis, research or precedent studies, conceptual development, design resolution, plans, elevations and sections. If you include professional projects please indicate your contribution to each scheme. Please contact us for further information.