About our foundation years

Overview

Our Foundation Year courses are perfect for you if you are returning to education after a long time, or you don't have the qualifications for direct entry into our degree programmes. They are also suitable for those thinking of re-training and would like an introduction to the area, or international students wanting an additional year to adapt to the UK academic system.

Eligibility

• Are returning to education after a long time
• Don't have the qualifications for direct entry into our degree programmes
• Are thinking of re-training and would like an introduction to the area
• Are an international student wanting an additional year to adapt to the UK academic system
• Are still evaluating which degree pathway at UEL is the right one for you

Full-time or Part-time Study

Foundation years can only be studied full-time. However, you can transfer to part-time delivery once you have completed your foundation year. Please apply to the full-time option if you wish to study in this way.

Architecture (ARB/RIBA PART 2) MArch

Overview

Our award-winning architecture department enjoys an international reputation for excellence and for producing architects who combine technical skills with practical experience.

Course Options

• Start date: September 2025
• MArch: 2 years, full-time

Entry Requirements

• Academic requirements: Bachelor's degree with minimum Second Class (2:2) or equivalent in an environmentally-relevant subject
• International Qualifications: We accept a wide range of European and international qualifications in addition to A-levels, the International Baccalaureate and BTEC qualifications
• Portfolio requirements: A portfolio is required and should be relevant to this course
• English Language requirements: Overall IELTS 6.0 with minimum 6.0 in writing and speaking, and 5.5 in listening and reading

Fees

• Home Applicant: £9,535 per year
• International Applicant: £15,560 per year

Funding

• Postgraduate Loans Scheme: £10,280 to fund your Masters Programme
• Postgraduate Scholarship: 50% discount on course fees
• Alumni Discount: up to 15% fee waiver
• Early Payment Discount: 5% fee waiver
• Asylum Seekers scholarship: 100% fee waiver
• Civic Engagement: £1,000
• Hardship Bursary: up to £2,000
• Sport Scholarships: Up to £6,000

Additional Costs

• Textbooks
• Computer equipment
• Printing
• Travel
• Personal laptops and other personal devices
• Personal copies of books
• Optional study visits and field trips
• Your own chosen materials and equipment
• Costs of participating in external events, exhibitions, performances etc.

What We're Researching

Our academic team combines world-class teaching with an enquiring research approach. Our staff includes celebrated practising architects such as Maria Segantini, partner of C+S Architects, Tony Fretton, principal of Tony Fretton Architects, and Katherine Clarke, partner of Muf.

Your Future Career

With our MArch behind you, you will be fully prepared to become a qualified architect. Our course is fully accredited and grants you a Part 2 exemption from the ARB/RIBA professional examinations.

Industry Links

We have well-established links with a variety of architectural practices and local organisations. Our teaching staff is regularly joined by architects from reputed organisations and practices.

Graduate Employers

You will graduate from a course that enjoys an international reputation for producing award-winning designers capable of producing complex architectural proposals with skill and sensitivity.

Job Roles

Some of our graduates go on to work in the public sector and culturally engaged practices. Others choose to join internationally awarded design practices or large global offices. You could even set up your own architectural design practice.

How We Support Your Career Ambitions

We offer dedicated careers support, further opportunities to thrive, such as volunteering and industry networking. Our courses are created in collaboration with employers and industry to ensure they accurately reflect the real-life practices of your future career and provide you with the essential skills needed.

How You'll Learn

Our studios, where the majority of teaching takes place, is a unique and intense environment where you will transform complexity into elegance, animate aesthetics and organise space for social use; whilst integrating essential technical, philosophical, regulatory and practical skills.

How You'll Be Assessed

We assess you through coursework, design work and essays. Your final assessment is at the end of the academic year via your academic portfolio. There are no closed book examinations.

Campus and Facilities

Our waterfront campus in the historic Royal Docks provides a modern, well-equipped learning environment. You will have access to contemporary lecture theatres and seminar rooms, art studios and exhibition spaces, audio and visual labs and a multimedia production centre.

Who Teaches This Course

This course is delivered by the School of Architecture, Computing and Engineering. The teaching team includes qualified academics, practitioners and industry experts as guest speakers.

University of East London

---

Overview:

University of East London (UEL) is a public university located in London, United Kingdom. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines. UEL is known for its commitment to providing a supportive and inclusive learning environment, with a focus on practical skills and real-world experience.

---

Services Offered:

Study:

UEL offers a comprehensive range of courses, including undergraduate, postgraduate, apprenticeships, and clearing options. They also provide advice for mature learners and offer a variety of subjects and schools.

Visit UEL:

The university hosts undergraduate open days and provides information about its location.

Student Information:

UEL offers resources for current and new students, including information on student life, accommodation, term dates, fees and funding, and scholarships.

International:

UEL provides support for international students, including advice for their region, pre-degree courses, visa and immigration advice, and pre-sessional English programs.

Your Career:

UEL offers career services, including career coaching and mentoring, opportunities to meet employers, and resources for volunteering and work while studying.

Partners:

UEL collaborates with various partners, including businesses and organizations, to provide opportunities for students and staff.

Our Research:

UEL conducts research across various disciplines and offers postgraduate research programs.

About:

UEL provides information about its schools and subjects, governance, professional services, vision, alumni, and sustainability initiatives.

---

Student Life and Campus Experience:

The context provides information about student life at UEL, highlighting the vibrant campus environment and the support available to students. It mentions the university's commitment to providing a positive and inclusive learning experience.

---

Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong focus on practical skills and real-world experience:

UEL emphasizes practical learning and provides opportunities for students to gain valuable experience through internships, placements, and other initiatives.

Supportive and inclusive learning environment:

UEL is committed to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for all students, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Vibrant campus life:

UEL offers a range of student activities, clubs, and societies, providing opportunities for students to connect with others and develop their interests.

Excellent career support:

UEL provides comprehensive career services to help students prepare for their future careers.

---

Academic Programs:

The context mentions that UEL offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines. It also highlights the university's commitment to research and its involvement in the Research Excellence Framework (REF).

---

Other:

The context mentions that UEL is celebrating a Year of Science in 2024. It also highlights the university's strong performance in the National Student Survey (NSS), ranking 3rd nationally for overall student positivity and top 10 in Teaching, Learning Opportunities, Assessments and Feedback.