Architecture study in the UK

Architecture in the UK

Career options, entry requirements and rankings for Architecture.

UK Architecture Courses

Introduction to Architecture

Architecture courses at UK universities focus on the technological, design, cultural and historical elements of the subject, and lectures on history and theory will take place alongside art and 3D design. This provides students with the best approach to learning about each element of the profession.

It takes seven years to become a fully qualified architect, combining five years of study followed by two years of professional training and practical work before final exams. Students will become members of the RIBA, the Royal Institute of British Architects, after their initial three-year undergraduate degree, before enrolling on a BArch, Diploma or March degree.

Prospective students require patience, hard work and dedication to become architects, but the rewards are huge. The Times University Guide recently reported that three years into their careers, architects are amongst the least likely of all graduates to be unhappy with their profession.

Careers in Architecture

After completing the seven years of study required to become a registered architect, graduates will find roles in architectural design, engineering and construction, preservation and urban planning.

What do Architecture Graduates earn?

  • Average starting professional salary: £20,000
  • Average starting non-professional salary: £15,392

Source: The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2019.

Architecture Entry Requirements

English language, art and design and mathematics are all preferable subjects to have studied before applying to an Architecture programme, and you should also enjoy drawing freehand and have an interest in design and producing 3D work. At many UK universities, a portfolio of work is crucial in being offered a place.

  • Typical International Baccalaureate requirements: Minimum 32 points.
  • Typical A-levels requirements: AAB, with a balance of art, sciences and writing ability.
  • Typical IELTS requirements: 6.5 overall, with no lower than 6.0 in any one component.

Please note that entry requirements vary for each UK university.

Where can I study Architecture in the UK?

To learn more about the best Architecture courses in the UK, find details on the top ten ranking Architecture universities in the Guardian University Guide 2020 below:

  1. University of Cambridge
  2. University College London
  3. University of Sheffield
  4. University of Bath
  5. Coventry University
  6. UWE Bristol
  7. Cardiff University
  8. Oxford Brookes University
  9. University of Northumbria
  10. Manchester School of Architecture

Do you need assistance in applying to Cambridge or UCL? The Oxbridge Service will fully prepare you in your application to some of the best universities in the world with intense interview practice and expert personal statement advice.

Study Architecture in the UK

If you are interested in studying Architecture in the UK, arrange your free consultation today. Don't forget the Premium Service will guarantee you at least one offer from a UK university!

SI-UK's service is fast, reliable and efficient. My consultant improved my chances of getting into a top university.
Carla T.
International Business Economics at City University

Read more testimonials

  • university-college-london
  • manchester
  • University of Birmingham
  • University of Leeds
  • sheffield
  • southampton
  • manchester
  • exeter
  • cardiff
  • warwick
  • loughborough
  • edinburgh
  • bristol
  • lancaster
  • durham
  • bath
  • york
  • st-andrews
  • sussex
  • nottingham
  • aberdeen
  • belfast
  • Oxford Brookes
  • University of Essex
  • National University of Ireland, Galway
  • University of Cumbria
  • Birmingham University
  • Liverpool John Moores University