Introduction to Architecture Design Studies BA (Hons)

The Architecture Design Studies BA (Hons) program at the University of Liverpool is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of architecture and its related disciplines. This program allows for greater flexibility in course choices compared to the traditional Architecture qualification, enabling students to explore their personal interests in the wider field of architecture.

Program Structure

The program is structured over three years, with students beginning on a common course with the BA (Hons) Architecture RIBA Part I validated route. This provides experience in the design process before students specialize in later years through a wide range of courses offered by other University of Liverpool departments.

Year One

In the first year, students are introduced to the history and evolution of Architecture, developing foundational knowledge of concepts and theories. Modules include:

• STUDIO 1.1: DESIGN COMMUNICATION (ARCH101)
• CONTEXT 1.2 ARCHITECTURE AND THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT (ARCH121)
• CONTEXT 1.1: HISTORY OF ARCHITECTURE (ARCH171)
• ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN 1 (ARCH111)
• TECHNOLOGY 1.2: STRUCTURE AND CONSTRUCTION (ARCH161) Optional modules in the first year include:
  • STUDIO 1.2: DESIGN (ARCH103)
  • TOWN AND COUNTRY PLANNING: AN INTRODUCTION (ENVS110)
  • SPATIAL DESIGN IN GAMES (SOTA104)
  • STUDIO 1.3: DESIGN (ARCH152)

Year Two

Year two continues with a deeper understanding of architectural processes and context, along with additional modules chosen from outside the School of Architecture, featuring sociology, planning, geography, and psychology. Compulsory modules include:

• ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN 2 (ARCH211)
• CONTEXT 2.1: HISTORY AND THEORY OF ARCHITECTURE (ARCH271)
• CONTEXT 2.1: URBAN STUDIES (ARCH221)
• TECHNOLOGY 2.2: STRUCTURAL DESIGN (ARCH261)
• URBAN MORPHOLOGY AND PLACE-MAKING (ENVS256)
• POLITICAL ECONOMIES OF GLOBALISATION (ENVS264) Optional modules in the second year include:
  • STRATEGIC PLAN MAKING (ENVS210)
  • PLANNING FOR ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY (ENVS218)
  • 3D MODELLING AND ANIMATION FOR GAMES (SOTA203)
  • PROFESSIONAL AND CAREER DEVELOPMENT (SOTA260)
  • IMMERSIVE MEDIA AND VIRTUAL WORLDS (COMM211)

Year Three

In the third year, students further develop their core architectural understanding, with more optional modules allowing for broader interests. A core module in the third year is a two-semester dissertation course where students can devote significant time to researching an area of particular interest. Compulsory modules include:

• CONTEXT 3.1: HISTORY AND THEORY OF ARCHITECTURE (ARCH321)
• TECHNOLOGY 3.1: INTEGRATED TECHNICAL PROJECT DESIGN (ARCH361)
• ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN 3 (ARCH311)
• PRACTICE MANAGEMENT (ARCH371)
• DESIGN STUDIES DISSERTATION (ARCH382) Optional modules in the third year include:
  • URBAN DESIGN STUDIES (ENVS312)
  • POLITICS OF THE ENVIRONMENT (ENVS325)
  • URBAN AND REGIONAL REGENERATION (ENVS336)
  • PLANNING LAW AND GOVERNANCE (ENVS348)
  • PLANNING AND PROPERTY DEVELOPMENT (ENVS369)
  • BUILDING BETTER WORLDS (ENVS387)
  • CURATION AND HERITAGE (MUSI353)
  • URBAN DESIGN PROJECT (ENVS359)
  • SCHOOL OF THE ARTS WORK PLACEMENTS MODULE (SOTA300)

Teaching and Assessment

The course comprises lecture-based courses, seminars, group work, and one-to-one tutorials. Assessment methods vary by course but include essays, multiple-choice quizzes, posters, reports, exams, and presentations.

Global Opportunities

University of Liverpool students can choose from an exciting range of study placements at partner universities worldwide, including the option for a year abroad or a year in industry.

Careers and Employability

The program prepares graduates for careers in fields related to architecture and the built environment, including architectural journalism, art history, museum curatorship, executive roles in the construction industry, and architects' offices. It also prepares graduates for further full-time education at the Master's level or in vocational degrees such as Town and Country Planning.

Fees and Funding

Tuition fees for the program vary for UK and international students. The University of Liverpool offers a range of scholarships and bursaries to help pay for tuition and living expenses.

Entry Requirements

Qualification requirements include A levels, BTEC, International Baccalaureate, and others, with specific grades and subjects required. English language proficiency is also necessary for international students.

Conclusion

The Architecture Design Studies BA (Hons) at the University of Liverpool offers a unique and flexible approach to studying architecture, allowing students to explore a wide range of interests within the field. With its comprehensive curriculum, global opportunities, and strong focus on employability, this program is ideal for students looking to pursue a career in architecture or related disciplines.

University of Liverpool