.jpg)
Harness the transformative power of design
Year of entry: 2025/26
K100
Y50
3 years full-time
Architecture at York is redefining architectural education to enact positive change. Challenge current practices and develop culturally-informed, sustainable approaches to shape tomorrow's landscape.
BA Architecture is a dynamic reflection of societal needs, embedding responsible design for public good. You’ll explore the history of architectural theory and practice, and how to apply these principles in response to the ever-evolving aspirations and challenges of society.
Sustainability is central to our ethos. We’ll encourage you to think critically about the environmental and social impact of construction, and consider sustainable solutions through a range of interdisciplinary modules. You’ll engage with local communities and cultivate the mindset to drive value-led architectural practice, applying innovative approaches relating building design to people’s needs. Our strong industry connections enrich your learning through real-world expertise and mentoring opportunities.
York’s rich architectural heritage and ongoing building and regeneration projects offer unique opportunities to gain real-world experience, and consider how future developments can complement and enhance heritage spaces.
Get involved with studio design projects and explore your creativity with our exceptional facilities. We’ll equip you with the technical and professional skills needed to navigate the complexities of the architectural industry, from writing design proposals and knowledge of statutory frameworks to digital design and model making.
You’ll graduate as a professional ready to contribute meaningfully to societal well-being.
The BA Architecture course will be applying for RIBA validation for Part 1 which is the first of 3 stages of qualification to become a qualified architect. The course has been designed incorporating the RIBA professional criteria. Our course documents will be submitted to the RIBA, and we will be seeking to be considered as a candidate course so that we can apply for validation for the first cohort who will graduate in 2028.
.jpg)
for the study of Arts and Humanities in the QS World University Rankings, 2024.
Enrich your learning with design projects. Engage with local communities and discover how to relate responsible design to people's needs.
You will study 360 credits over the duration of your course:
There are opportunities for you to spend time abroad during your course:
There are opportunities to spend time in industry as part of this course.
In Year 1, you'll get on an exciting journey to learn the foundational principles of architectural design. Throughout your studies, you'll encounter modules that form the bedrock of your architectural education, nurturing essential skills and knowledge vital for your evolution as a proficient architect.
This year promises a rich tapestry of experiences, where you'll be captivated by the enchanting architecture of York. Immerse yourself in its historical charm as you unravel the narrative of architectural evolution. Gain insights into the intricate processes of building construction and deepen your understanding of the climate emergency, discovering your pivotal role in addressing this global challenge.
Prepare to be inspired as you board on this transformative exploration of architectures essence and significance.
In addition to the above you will also need to complete our online Academic Integrity module.
This module covers some of the essential skills and knowledge which will help you to study independently and produce work of a high academic standard which is vital for success at York.
This module will:
In Year 2, your architectural journey continues to flourish. Through experimental dwelling projects, you’ll explore the profound interplay between architecture and society, honing your skills in creating spaces that resonate with human needs and aspirations. The Retrofit design studio will equip you with indispensable insights into architectural and urban regeneration, empowering you to contribute meaningfully to the revitalisation of communities and built environments.
Our curated modules will cultivate your professional sense and broaden your creative horizons. Delve into the ethical dimensions of design and public engagement, as you navigate the complex intersection of architecture and society. Uncover the relationship between architecture, art, and heritage. Discover how these disciplines shape our collective identity and sense of place. You’ll explore the transformative potential of advanced technologies within architectural practice, embracing innovation as a catalyst for meaningful design solutions.
Enrich your learning a York Interdisciplinary Module (YIM). Choose from our diverse range of interdisciplinary options to deepen your understanding of sustainability. Broaden your perspectives and develop a socially-conscious approach to architectural practice.
You will also study one optional YIM module, selected from across the suite of York Interdisciplinary modules (YIM). Examples may include:
The options available to you will be confirmed when you start your course.
As you approach graduation, this transformative year is dedicated to honing your individual architectural identity, equipping you with the skills and confidence to embark on your career with purpose and self-confidence.
The Architecture Clinic, is an invaluable opportunity to engage directly with real-world projects and stakeholders. You’ll navigate the complexities of architectural practice and collaborate with clients and construction professionals.
Complementing this hands-on experience is your participation in the RIBA Mentorship Scheme. You’ll benefit from the guidance of a local architect, refining your professional conduct and expanding your network within the industry.
Year 3 is about self-expression and exploration. From crafting a multimedia dissertation that reflects your unique perspective on architectural humanities in contemporary contexts, to exploring specialised advanced technologies, you’ll have the opportunity to showcase your distinctive voice and passions.
Your degree will culminate in an integrated design project, guided by our supportive staff. You’ll have the space to realise your architectural vision, setting the stage for a promising career ahead.
You'll complete an 5,000-word dissertation, Architects in context: Research-led enquiries into architects, culture and practice.
Our modules may change to reflect the latest academic thinking and expertise of our staff, and in line with Department/School academic planning.
Every course at York has been designed to provide clear and ambitious learning outcomes. These learning outcomes give you an understanding of what you will be able to do at the end of the course. We develop each course by designing modules that grow your abilities towards the learning outcomes and help you to explain what you can offer to employers. Find out more about our approach to teaching and learning.
| UK (home) | International and EU |
|---|---|
| £9,250 | £25,800 |
Fees for students starting in the 2025/26 academic year.
The level of fee that you will be asked to pay depends on whether you're classed as a UK (home) or international student. Check your fee status.
For more information about tuition fees, any reduced fees for study abroad and work placement years, scholarships, tuition fee loans, maintenance loans and living costs see undergraduate fees and funding.
We'll confirm more funding opportunities for students joining us in 2025/26 throughout the year.
We are pleased to offer academic excellence scholarships to the value of £1,000 for Architecture students who achieve AAA at A level (or equivalent).
You can use our living costs guide to help plan your budget. It covers additional costs that are not included in your tuition fee such as expenses for accommodation and study materials.
Our teaching, learning and student experience is outstanding, recognised by a Gold rating from the Office for Students in the 2023 national assessment (Teaching Excellence Framework).
You’ll study and learn with academics who are active researchers, experts in their field and have a passion for their subjects. Our approach to teaching will provide you with the knowledge, opportunities, and support you need to grow and succeed in a global workplace. Find out more about our approach to teaching and learning.
We integrate conventional lecture formats with practical workshops and immersive design studio sessions. Project-based learning is central to our curriculum, so you’ll engage actively in the creative process. You'll develop your computing and visual skills through tailored workshops.
Field trips offer you real-world insights into design and construction. You'll take trips across the UK as part of your studies. Our programme includes a fully funded overseas trip in Year 2, enriching your understanding of global architecture and cultural diversity, preparing you for a dynamic career ahead.
We have strong connections with architectural firms and local communities, enriching your learning through real-world expertise and mentoring opportunities.
In the UK, full-time students are expected to spend 1,200 hours a year learning. That's about 40 hours of classes and independent study each week during semesters. Everyone learns at a different rate, so the number of hours you spend on independent study will be different to other students on your course.
At York, you'll have access to a fantastic range of facilities, including:
We'll provide you with an equipment pack that includes a scale ruler and cutting mat. You'll also receive allowances for printing and model making. Software essential to your course - including CAD, Revit and the Adobe suite - will be provided.
You'll have access to a rich variety of resources through the University Library.
Get to grips with emerging technologies in the Creativity Lab. Explore VR and AR, 3D design, podcasting, 360 filming and recording, photography and more.
You'll be based in the York School of Architecture on Campus East.
Our beautiful green campus offers a student-friendly setting in which to live and study, within easy reach of the action in the city centre. It's easy to get around - everything is within walking or pedalling distance, or you can use the fast and frequent bus service. Take a campus tour.
Most of our modules are portfolio-assessed.
The adoption of portfolio assessment reflects the contemporary nature of Architecture practice. This approach encourages you to recognise the connections between each module, giving you a comprehensive understanding of the profession.
For all portfolio assessments, students will be informed of the weightings of constituent parts of the portfolio in the project briefs.
.jpg)
.jpg)
This programme provide a foundation to develop into a wide range of career paths, which include:
| Typical offer | |
|---|---|
| A levels | AAB |
| Access to Higher Education Diploma | 36 credits at Distinction and 9 credits at Merit or higher. |
| BTEC National Extended Diploma | DDD |
| Cambridge Pre-U | D3, D3, M2 |
| European Baccalaureate | 80% overall |
| International Baccalaureate | 35 points |
| T levels | We will consider a range of T Level qualifications for entry. Please visit our dedicated T Levels page for a full list of accepted T Levels. |
| Scottish Highers / Advanced Highers | Scottish Highers - AABBB Advanced Highers - not required for entry We may also be able to consider three Advanced Highers or a combination of Highers and Advanced Highers, where an applicant does not meet the grade requirement through Highers alone. Please contact us to discuss your qualifications. |
| Other international qualifications | Equivalent qualifications from your country |
We require GCSE Mathematics at grade 5 (B) or equivalent.
Your application will be reviewed and if you meet our entry criteria you'll be invited to an interview and also to submit a digital portfolio.
Meeting the following additional criteria may qualify you for an alternative offer.
| Criteria | Adjustment |
|---|---|
| Widening participation | If you successfully complete one of the following programmes, you may be eligible for an alternative offer up to two A level grades (or equivalent) below our typical offer: Black Access Programme, Next Step York, Realising Opportunities. More about widening participation. |
| Contextual offers | If you have experience of local authority care or live in an area with low progression to university, you may be eligible for an alternative offer up to two A level grades (or equivalent) below our typical offer. More about contextual offers. |
| EPQ | We recognise the value of this qualification although it will not be included as a condition of entry. It may be taken into consideration when you receive your results. |
If English isn't your first language you may need to provide evidence of your English language ability. We accept the following qualifications:
| Minimum requirement | |
|---|---|
| IELTS (Academic) | 6.5, with a minimum of 6.0 in each component |
| Cambridge CEFR | 176, with a minimum of 169 in each component |
| Oxford ELLT | 7, with a minimum of 6 in each component |
| Oxford Test of English Advanced | 136, with a minimum of 126 in each component |
| Duolingo | Integrated subscores: 120 overall, with a minimum of 105 in each component |
| GCSE/IGCSE/O level English Language (as a first or second language) | Grade C / Grade 4 |
| LanguageCert SELT | B2 with a minimum score of 33/50 in each component |
| LanguageCert Academic | B2 Communicator with a minimum score of 33/50 in each component |
| Kaplan Test of English Language | 478 Main Flight score with 444 in each component |
| Skills for English | B2: Merit overall, with Pass with Merit in each component |
| PTE Academic | 61, with a minimum of 55 in each component |
| TOEFL | 87 overall, with a minimum of 21 in each component |
| Trinity ISE III | Merit in all components |
| Other English language qualifications | We also accept other English Language qualifications, including various school-leaving certificates. |
For more information see our undergraduate English language requirements.
You may be eligible for one of our pre-sessional English language courses. These courses will provide you with the level of English needed to meet the conditions of your offer.
The length of course you need to take depends on your current English language test scores and how much you need to improve to reach our English language requirements.
After you've accepted your offer to study at York, we'll confirm which pre-sessional course you should apply to via You@York.
To apply to York, you will need to complete an online application via UCAS (the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service).
You'll submit a portfolio of work as part of your application to study BA Architecture. We've created a rough guide to help you compile your portfolio and showcase your skills.
We offer a range of campus accommodation to suit you and your budget, from economy to premium.
Explore campus and city life and hear what our current students have to say about living here.
Lively, full of culture and beautiful, York is regularly voted one of the best places to live and visit in the UK.
Find out more about York. Chat to staff and students and take the tour, on campus or online.
, 1,528kb).jpg)
