Architecture Colleges in UK for International Students

Updated on 24 September, 2024

Shivangi Mishra

Shivangi Mishra

Sr. Content Editor

Architecture is the art and science of designing buildings and structures that are functional, sustainable, and aesthetically appealing. Individuals studying this discipline plan, design, and oversee the construction of these structures.

Students interested in the built environment will find the United Kingdom the best place to study Architecture. With home to some of the most impressive structures and exceptional universities, it can lay the foundation for a rewarding career. 

Furthermore, the excellent educational standards, a thriving economy, and notable technological advances make British colleges one of the top study-abroad options.

This article will cover in-depth information about top universities, courses, eligibility, and other essential details on Architecture colleges in the UK. 

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Top 5 Universities in the UK For Architecture 

The United Kingdom is well-known for its outstanding education and exceptional universities, many of which deliver excellence in Architecture. 

The below listed are some of the best colleges for architecture courses in UK:

University Name  QS Subject Ranking (2022) QS World’s University Ranking (2023) Programmes Offered, Duration,  and Annual Fee*
University College London  3 8

Architecture BSc 

 

(3 years/29,000 GPB)

Architecture MSci

(5 years/29,000 GPB)

Engineering and Architectural Design MEng

(4 years/29,000 GPB)

Manchester School of Architecture 7 28 

BA (Hons) Architecture 

 

(3 years/26,000 per year GPB)

Master of Architecture

(2 years/26,000 GPB)

MA Architecture and Adaptive Reuse

(1 year/19,000 GPB)

University of Cambridge 11 2

BA (Hons) Architecture 

 

(3 years/32,064 GPB)

MPhil in Architecture & Urban Studies (MAUS)

(1 year/34,803 GPB)

Master in Architecture

(21 months/37,164 GPB)

The University of Sheffield 33 96

Architecture BA

 

(3 years/26,950 GPB)

Architecture and Landscape BA

(3 years/26,950 GPB)

Sustainable Architecture Studies MSc 

(1 year/24,400 GPB)

Cardiff University 46 166

BSc Architectural Studies 

 

(5 years/ 25,450 GPB)

MA Urban Design 

(1 year/24,700 GPB)

MA Architectural Design 

(1 year/25,450 GPB)

*All fees are indicative; taken from university sites

Eligibility Requirements to Study Architecture in the UK 

Architecture universities in the United Kingdom require students to meet specific requirements to secure admission. While eligibility criteria for every institution are different, general provisions to meet for admission in architecture colleges in the UK are as follows:

  • Students interested in pursuing a bachelor in Architecture must have completed 10+2 with a minimum of 50 to 60% scores with disciplines including Mathematics and Science. Also, the overall GPA should be at least 3.0.
  • Students looking to study in architecture colleges in the UK for master’s must have a BArch degree with 50 to 60% scores along with two years of work experience.
  • International students applying to UK architecture colleges must submit their proof of English proficiency test scores. However, the score might differ from university to university. Generally speaking, a TOEFL of 80-100 and an IELTS score of 5.5 will suffice.
  • Some of the best architecture colleges in UK for master’s or bachelor’s might demand GMAT/GRE Scores. The GMAT score applicable is 600, whereas the accepted GRE score is between 300-320.

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Admission Process & Deadline for Architecture Courses in the UK 

The international admission application process is long-winding, consisting of various steps. Please note that each university of Architectural Studies will have different application deadlines. However, starting at least six months before the course starts is advised.

Students must begin by checking the official website of the best architecture colleges in the UK to check for eligibility requirements. Also, take a keen look at the important documents and permits required to be submitted alongside the application.

Then, students must complete the general application and pay the form fee.

After this, students can log into the admission portal with all the essential documents required for admission.

Once the university reviews students’ documents and scores, they might be asked for a virtual interview round. That cleared, students will receive the acceptance letter and must initiate the Visa application process. 

Study in the UK Without Breaking the Bank: Top Low-Cost Universities for International Students!

 

Job Prospects After Completing Architecture Study in the UK 

Obtaining a qualified degree in architecture can be incredibly lucrative, especially in a country like the United Kingdom. It’s not just that the UK is known globally as an architectural heritage – but the sector brings in 8.4 GPB to the economy alone. A career in this field, as such, can be rewarding both professionally and financially.

Moreover, salary remunerations can go up to several pounds per year for an architect. Here is a list of the popular career options in Architecture alongside their salary:

Job Prospects  Salary *
Architectural Technician 34,525 GPB a year
Software Architect 76,098 GPB a year
Architectural Designer 36,169 GPB a year
Project Architect 41,910 GPB a year
Building Architect 39,998 GPB a year
Interior Designer 36,796 GPB a year

* As per job sites (indicative figures)

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FAQs

Is there any scholarship available to UK Students for Architecture study in the UK?

Students looking to pursue Architecture in the UK at the undergraduate level can visit the UK Council for International Students Affairs website to find out about funding available. While for other courses at the Master’s or PhD level, students can search the official website of the colleges.

 


 

How long is PhD in Architecture UK?

The PhD in Architecture at UK universities is a three-year programme developed in a way to help students acquire a deep understanding of their chosen topics. That said, the course is also available for international students on a five-year part-time basis.

 

 

 


 

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Shivangi Mishra

Sr. Content Editor

She is an experienced writer and journalist who has extensively covered the education sector in India and Abroad. Now helping Indian aspirants realise their foreign education dream by providing them with relevant content and information through upGrad Abroad. Amateur traveller, loves to read Architectural Digest!

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