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Building the next generation of architects.

With extensive input from professionals and the chance to work on authentic design projects across a diverse range of sites, this RIBA Validated, ARB Accredited, studio based course is designed to give you the full range of skills you’ll need for a career in architecture.

On our Architecture BA (Hons) course, you will cover the main themes of architectural design:

  • Design creativity
  • History and theory
  • Technology and environment
  • Practice management and law
  • Architectural Communication
These will be covered in both lecture-based modules and in practical design projects, giving you the skills needed to succeed as an architect.
Our Architecture programme is driven by an appreciation of context and the creation of design ideas for specific people and places. You'll complete two major design projects in your final year of study, one rural and one urban in context, allowing you to develop a personal approach to architectural design. You'll also learn about environment and systems integration, constructional, structural design, environmental and sustainable design, and cultural context.

As well as working on your design projects, you'll also have the opportunity to take part in a European field trip which will help you to experience significant buildings and cities first hand and to appreciate the historical and contemporary influences on architectural design.

Why study BA (Hons) Architecture at Northumbria University?

 

  • Top University - Architecture at Northumbria is ranked top 15 in the UK for Teaching Quality & Student Experience (Times Good University Guide, 2025)
  • A Research Powerhouse - Architecture, Built Environment and Planning is ranked 11th in the UK for research power out of 38 submissions (REF, 2021). This is a rise of 13 places compared to 2014 – the joint highest rise in the sector.
  • Student Rated - Over 95% of students studying Architecture at Northumbria believed they were positively challenged to achieve their best work (NSS, 2024).

 

What accreditations does Northumbria’s Architecture course have?

On successful completion of our BA Architecture programme, you will have exemption from the ARB and RIBA Part 1 professional qualifications and will be on your way to becoming a fully-qualified architect. The programme is:
• Accredited by the Architects Registration Board (ARB) for the purpose of a Part 1 qualification.
• Accredited by the Architects Registration Board (ARB) for the purpose of eligibility for registration with that body.
• Validated by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) at Part 1 level for the purpose of eligibility for membership of the RIBA.
• Accredited by the Board of Architects Malaysia (LAM) for the purpose of eligibility for registration as a Graduate Architect with the Board of Architects Malaysia. This programme meets the accreditation criteria, attributes, knowledge and skills required in Architectural Study as stated in the Manual of Accreditation for Architecture Programme.

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See other similar courses you may be interested in: Interior Architecture BA (Hons), Interior Design BA and be sure to check out all of our Architecture & Built Environment Courses.

 

Building the next generation of architects.

With extensive input from professionals and the chance to work on authentic design projects across a diverse range of sites, this RIBA Validated, ARB Accredited, studio based course is designed to give you the full range of skills you’ll need for a career in architecture.

On our Architecture BA (Hons) course, you will cover the main themes of architectural design:

  • Design creativity
  • History and theory
  • Technology and environment
  • Practice management and law
  • Architectural Communication
These will be covered in both lecture-based modules and in practical design projects, giving you the skills needed to succeed as an architect.
Our Architecture programme is driven by an appreciation of context and the creation of design ideas for specific people and places. You'll complete two major design projects in your final year of study, one rural and one urban in context, allowing you to develop a personal approach to architectural design. You'll also learn about environment and systems integration, constructional, structural design, environmental and sustainable design, and cultural context.

As well as working on your design projects, you'll also have the opportunity to take part in a European field trip which will help you to experience significant buildings and cities first hand and to appreciate the historical and contemporary influences on architectural design.

Why study BA (Hons) Architecture at Northumbria University?

 

  • Top University - Architecture at Northumbria is ranked top 15 in the UK for Teaching Quality & Student Experience (Times Good University Guide, 2025)
  • A Research Powerhouse - Architecture, Built Environment and Planning is ranked 11th in the UK for research power out of 38 submissions (REF, 2021). This is a rise of 13 places compared to 2014 – the joint highest rise in the sector.
  • Student Rated - Over 95% of students studying Architecture at Northumbria believed they were positively challenged to achieve their best work (NSS, 2024).

 

What accreditations does Northumbria’s Architecture course have?

On successful completion of our BA Architecture programme, you will have exemption from the ARB and RIBA Part 1 professional qualifications and will be on your way to becoming a fully-qualified architect. The programme is:
• Accredited by the Architects Registration Board (ARB) for the purpose of a Part 1 qualification.
• Accredited by the Architects Registration Board (ARB) for the purpose of eligibility for registration with that body.
• Validated by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) at Part 1 level for the purpose of eligibility for membership of the RIBA.
• Accredited by the Board of Architects Malaysia (LAM) for the purpose of eligibility for registration as a Graduate Architect with the Board of Architects Malaysia. This programme meets the accreditation criteria, attributes, knowledge and skills required in Architectural Study as stated in the Manual of Accreditation for Architecture Programme.

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See other similar courses you may be interested in: Interior Architecture BA (Hons), Interior Design BA and be sure to check out all of our Architecture & Built Environment Courses.

 

Extended Degree 

This extended degree provides an alternative route to higher education and supports those who don’t meet the standard entry requirements for an undergraduate degree. It includes a foundation year where you will experience first hand knowledge of architecture, built environment and the wider environmental context.

What will I learn in my first year?

In your first year, you will delve into current theories, policies, and real-world practices while expanding your academic knowledge and research skills. With access to state-of-the-art technology and on-site laboratories, you will learn through a combination of lectures, seminars, and hands-on use of tools and equipment, covering industry-relevant topics.

The first year of the course delivered at level 3 which develops your ability to study in Higher Education is not accredited.



Course Information

UCAS Code
Z039

Level of Study
Undergraduate

Mode of Study
5 years Full Time

Department
Architecture and Built Environment

Location
City Campus, Northumbria University

City
Newcastle

Start
September 2026

Fees
Fee Information

Modules
Module Information

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Entry Requirements Modules Overview Fees, Funding  and Scholarships Apply Now
Entry Requirements

Entry Requirements 2026/27

Standard Entry

64 to 80 Tariff Points 

From a combination of acceptable Level 3 qualifications which may include: A-level, T Level, BTEC Diplomas/Extended Diplomas, Scottish and Irish Highers, Access to HE Diplomas, or the International Baccalaureate.

Find out how many points your qualifications are worth by using the UCAS Tariff calculator: www.ucas.com/ucas/tariff-calculator

Northumbria University is committed to supporting all individuals to achieve their ambitions and we understand that every applicant’s circumstances can be different, which is why we take a flexible approach when making offers for this course. We have a range of schemes and alternative offers to make sure as many individuals as possible are given an opportunity to study at our university regardless of personal circumstances or background. Typically, offers range from 64 to 80 UCAS tariff points, but we’ll assess your individual circumstances and potential when reviewing your application

To find out more, review our Northumbria Entry Requirement Essential Information page for further details www.northumbria.ac.uk/entryrequirementsinfo

Subject Requirements:

There are no specific subject requirements for this course.

GCSE Requirements:

Applicants will need Maths and English Language at minimum grade 4/C, or an equivalent.

Additional Requirements:

There are no additional requirements for this course.

International Qualifications:

We welcome applicants with a range of qualifications which may not match those shown above.

If you have qualifications from outside the UK, find out what you need by visiting www.northumbria.ac.uk/yourcountry

English Language Requirements:

International applicants should have a minimum overall IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with 5.5 in each component (or an approved equivalent*).

*The university accepts a large number of UK and International Qualifications in place of IELTS. You can find details of acceptable tests and the required grades in our English Language section: www.northumbria.ac.uk/englishqualifications

Fees and Funding 2026/27 Entry

UK Fee in Year 1*: TBC

* Government has yet to announce 26/27 tuition fee levels.  As a guide, 25/26 fees were £9,535 per year.


International Fee in Year 1: TBC


Scholarships for 26/27 have not yet been announced.  Please see the main Funding Pages for 25/26 scholarship information.

 


ADDITIONAL COSTS

TBC

If you’d like to receive the latest updates from Northumbria about our courses, events, finance & funding then enter your details below.

* At Northumbria we are strongly committed to protecting the privacy of personal data. To view the University’s Privacy Notice please click here

Modules Overview 2026/27

Modules

Module information is indicative and is reviewed annually therefore may be subject to change. Applicants will be informed if there are any changes.

Year one Year two Year three Year four

Year one

KA4011 -

Introduction to Design Project 1.1 (Core,40 Credits)

Acquiring the inherent principles, practices and theoretical motivations of the design process forms the core learning journey within this module. You will develop an emerging understanding of contemporary notions of physical context, narrative and spatial awareness though project briefs which explore the diversity and richness of contemporary design ideas. Combining an appreciation and interpretation of these thematic ideas will foster critical learning skills and will help you to develop a reflective attitude towards design. You will learn how to respond effectively, as an individual or as part of a group, to given narrative and design-based scenarios to help you understand design language, within set design briefs to generate small scale spaces. You will learn how to test and evaluation atmosphere, language, space and form whilst being introduced to the appropriate two and three-dimensional representation skills to explore your ideas.

More information

KA4012 -

Architecture Project 1.2 (Core,40 Credits)

An advancement in the principles, practices and theoretical motivations of the architectural design process forms your core learning journey on this module. You will combine your developing appreciation and focussed interpretation of conceptual notions with an emerging understanding of physical context, narrative and spatial awareness within your design solutions to set project briefs that will provoke response to a given set of conditions relating to place, form, architectural language and material. Within your project work you will develop your critical learning skills, your reflective attitude to design solutions and your application of two and three-dimensional representation to refine and convey your ideas.

More information

KA4013 -

Introduction to Theory 1 (Core,20 Credits)

This module will introduce you to a range of historical, theoretical and technological paradigms that govern the disciplines of Architecture and Interior Architecture. Through a thematic exposure to seminal historic and contemporary architecture and interiors, the module reveals key theoretical positions and thinking and allows you to develop your own critical appreciation of these in support of your broader subject knowledge. Presented as a theoretically connected continuum of architectural and interior architectural thought spanning relevant epochs, the modules content will specifically align to your studio-based design projects to ensure that you have opportunity to develop your critical thinking and to inform your emergent creative practice.

More information

KA4017 -

Introduction to Technology 1 (Core,20 Credits)

A fundamental knowledge of the social, environmental, ethical and technological principles, and the requirements of architectural practice within the context of Architecture and Interior Architecture, forms the core learning aims of this module. Such principles will be used to contextualise issues of design theory, environmental literacy, technology and emergent regulatory awareness, all of which influence the design process of these professions. Simultaneously, the module will introduce the broader professional, social and ethical parameters informing the design process. Module content will encourage critical thinking and contextual understanding, enabling the identification and understanding of emergent practice-based issues in relation to architecture and interior architecture. Research based analysis of case studies will contextualise your emergent knowledge towards practical application to studio design projects.

More information

KA5041 -

Academic Language Skills for Architecture and Built Environment (Core – for International and EU students only,0 Credits)

Academic skills when studying away from your home country can differ due to cultural and language differences in teaching and assessment practices. This module is designed to support your transition in the use and practice of technical language and subject specific skills around assessments and teaching provision in your chosen subject. The overall aim of this module is to develop your abilities to read and study effectively for academic purposes; to develop your skills in analysing and using source material in seminars and academic writing and to develop your use and application of language and communications skills to a higher level.

The topics you will cover on the module include:

• Understanding assignment briefs and exam questions.
• Developing academic writing skills, including citation, paraphrasing, and summarising.
• Practising ‘critical reading’ and ‘critical writing’
• Planning and structuring academic assignments (e.g. essays, reports and presentations).
• Avoiding academic misconduct and gaining credit by using academic sources and referencing effectively.
• Listening skills for lectures.
• Speaking in seminar presentations.
• Presenting your ideas
• Giving discipline-related academic presentations, experiencing peer observation, and receiving formative feedback.
• Speed reading techniques.
• Developing self-reflection skills.

More information

Year two

KA5000 -

Architecture Project 2.1 (40 Credits)

Synthesising the principles, practices and theoretical motivations of the architectural design process forms the core learning journey of this module. Combining an independent appreciation and interpretation of conceptual notions with an advanced understanding of physical context, narrative and spatial awareness, the established project brief will provoke responses to specific architectural conditions and typologies relating to place, form, architectural language, material and construction. You will develop existing 2D and 3D communication skills to realise and represent architectural propositions, exploring methods of manual, digital and mixed-media representation. Working independently and collectively, you will develop critical learning skills and an evaluative and reflective attitude to the iterative process of architectural design. Where applicable, projects will include site visit to real site within the local.

More information

KA5001 -

Architecture Project 2.2 (40 Credits)

Synthesising the principles, practices and theoretical motivations of the architectural design process forms the core learning journey of this module. Combining an advancing independent appreciation and interpretation of conceptual notions with an advanced understanding of physical context, narrative and spatial awareness with an appreciation of the management of design proposals, the established project brief will provoke responses to specific architectural conditions and typologies relating to place, form, architectural language, material and construction. In addition, you will critically synthesise the broader issues of design practice and management. Working independently and collectively, you will advance your critical learning skills and your reflective attitude to the iterative process of architectural design. Where applicable, projects will include site visit to real site within the local.

More information

KA5005 -

Architecture Theory 2 (20 Credits)

An advanced appreciation of historical, theoretical, societal and technological paradigms governing the disciplines of Architecture forms the core learning journey of this module. Through a thematic exposure to seminal historic and contemporary architecture you will develop your existing knowledge to further reveal your understanding of key theoretical positions and of your advanced thinking. Presented as a theoretically connected continuum of architectural thought, spanning relevant epochs, the modules content will thematically align to your wider creative learning on the programme. You will advance your critical learning skills and your reflective attitude to advanced theories of architecture that will help you to appraise your own design work.

More information

KA5014 -

Architecture Technology 2 (20 Credits)

Increasing awareness of social, environmental, ethical and regulatory principles and requirements of architectural practice and technologies is manifested in your application of these themes to your module assignment and studio design projects. You will develop a critical consideration of broader professional, social, ecological and ethical factors informing architectural practice. Module content will encourage critical thinking, supporting the identification, appraisal and selection of emergent themes relating to architectural design and practice. Analytical studies of appropriate precedents, technologies and applications will contextualise your developing knowledge, and enable the application of this knowledge to your design processes. A thematic lecture programme will explore key technologies, typologies and principles. Supporting seminars will provide you with the opportunities to directly apply this knowledge to studio based project work. Your communications and research skills will be advanced in order to successfully articulate and argue for the technological and environmental choices you will make within the design of studio projects. You will be encouraged in individual and group work to carry out independent learning in order to develop a personal knowledge base applicable to academic and professional practice.

More information

KA5041 -

Academic Language Skills for Architecture and Built Environment (Core – for International and EU students only,0 Credits)

Academic skills when studying away from your home country can differ due to cultural and language differences in teaching and assessment practices. This module is designed to support your transition in the use and practice of technical language and subject specific skills around assessments and teaching provision in your chosen subject. The overall aim of this module is to develop your abilities to read and study effectively for academic purposes; to develop your skills in analysing and using source material in seminars and academic writing and to develop your use and application of language and communications skills to a higher level.

The topics you will cover on the module include:

• Understanding assignment briefs and exam questions.
• Developing academic writing skills, including citation, paraphrasing, and summarising.
• Practising ‘critical reading’ and ‘critical writing’
• Planning and structuring academic assignments (e.g. essays, reports and presentations).
• Avoiding academic misconduct and gaining credit by using academic sources and referencing effectively.
• Listening skills for lectures.
• Speaking in seminar presentations.
• Presenting your ideas
• Giving discipline-related academic presentations, experiencing peer observation, and receiving formative feedback.
• Speed reading techniques.
• Developing self-reflection skills.

More information

Year three

KA5045 -

Study abroad year (Optional,120 Credits)

This module is designed for all standard full-time undergraduate programmes within the Faculty of Engineering and Environment and provides you with the option to study abroad for one full year as part of your programme.

This is a 120 credit module which is available between Levels 5 and 6. You will undertake a year of study abroad at an approved partner University where you will have access to modules from your discipline, but taught in a different learning culture. This gives you the opportunity to broaden your overall experience of learning. The structure of study will be dependent on the partner and will be recorded for an individual student on the learning agreement signed by the host University, the student, and the home University (Northumbria).

Your study abroad year will be assessed on a pass/fail basis. It will not count towards your final degree classification but, it is recognised in your transcript as a 120 credit Study Abroad module and on your degree certificate in the format – “Degree title (with Study Abroad Year)”.

More information

Year four

KA5041 -

Academic Language Skills for Architecture and Built Environment (Core – for International and EU students only,0 Credits)

Academic skills when studying away from your home country can differ due to cultural and language differences in teaching and assessment practices. This module is designed to support your transition in the use and practice of technical language and subject specific skills around assessments and teaching provision in your chosen subject. The overall aim of this module is to develop your abilities to read and study effectively for academic purposes; to develop your skills in analysing and using source material in seminars and academic writing and to develop your use and application of language and communications skills to a higher level.

The topics you will cover on the module include:

• Understanding assignment briefs and exam questions.
• Developing academic writing skills, including citation, paraphrasing, and summarising.
• Practising ‘critical reading’ and ‘critical writing’
• Planning and structuring academic assignments (e.g. essays, reports and presentations).
• Avoiding academic misconduct and gaining credit by using academic sources and referencing effectively.
• Listening skills for lectures.
• Speaking in seminar presentations.
• Presenting your ideas
• Giving discipline-related academic presentations, experiencing peer observation, and receiving formative feedback.
• Speed reading techniques.
• Developing self-reflection skills.

More information

KA6012 -

Architecture Project 3.1 (40 Credits)

Synthesising the principles, practices and theoretical motivations of the architectural design process within a complex design response forms your core learning journey within this module. Combining a critical interpretation of conceptual notions and professional practice with a detailed assimilation of physical context, narrative and spatial awareness. Project briefs will provoke responses to specific architectural conditions and typologies relating to place, form, architectural language, material, sustainability and construction. You will articulate your ideas by employing detailed 2D and 3D communication skills to realise and represent architectural propositions alongside a written and illustrated study of the professional context within which your design ideas are framed. Working independently and collectively, you will enhance your critical learning skills and your reflective attitude within the iterative process of architectural design.

More information

KA6027 -

Architecture Project 3.2 (40 Credits)

Synthesising the principles, practices and theoretical motivations of the architectural design process within a complex design response forms your core learning journey within this module. Combining a critical interpretation of conceptual notions and professional practice with a detailed assimilation of physical context, narrative and spatial awareness. Project briefs will provoke responses to specific architectural conditions and typologies relating to place, form, architectural language, material, sustainability and construction. You will articulate your ideas by employing detailed 2D and 3D communication skills to realise and represent architectural propositions and the professional context within which your design ideas are framed. Working independently and collectively, you will enhance your critical learning skills and your reflective attitude within the iterative process of architectural design.

More information

KA6028 -

Architecture Theory 3 (20 Credits)

A critical appreciation and evaluation of advanced historical, theoretical, urban and technological paradigms governing the disciplines of Architecture forms the core learning journey of this module. The thematic exposure to seminal historic and contemporary architecture will develop critical knowledge to further reveal key theoretical positions and thinking. Presented as a theoretically connected continuum of architectural thought, spanning relevant epochs, content will thematically align to your wider creative learning journey. Existing critical learning skills will be honed to further reflective upon and interpret established theories of architecture.

More information

KA6029 -

Architecture Technology 3 (20 Credits)

This module seeks to provide you with a focussed appraisal of the principles of architectural technologies and the social, environmental, ethical and technological principles and requirements of architectural practice, building upon the ‘Practice and Technology’ content taught in previous years. The critical justification and imaginative synthesis of constructional systems and environmental design with the social and ethical considerations of energy consumption and ecological impacts of adopted technologies will be central to this module. The systematic analysis of appropriate case studies and professional practices will underpin this approach. Structural, constructional, environmental and sustainable design criteria will be considered, allowing comparative analysis of current and possible solutions; you will consequently be required to propose solutions for your studio design project that can be rigorously justified in their application to factors such as structural performance; fire strategies; accessibility; and fabrication and assembly. Similarly, environmental consideration of daylighting; acoustic performance, ventilation, heating and cooling will require your justified argument for the design choices you will make. In recognition of the social, ethical and environmental responsibilities of the architect, you will be encouraged to develop an understanding of sustainable design criteria and how these can be satisfied, while also meeting the aesthetic, functional and structural demands of your studio design project.

More information

To start your application, simply select the month you would like to start your course.

BA (Hons) Architecture (Extended Degree)

Home or EU applicants please apply through UCAS

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International applicants please apply using the links below

START MONTH
YEAR

SEPTEMBER

2026

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Any Questions?

Our Applicant Services team will be happy to help.  They can be contacted on 0191 406 0901 or by using our Contact Form.

 

All information is accurate at the time of sharing. 

Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.  

Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.

 

Accessibility and Student Inclusion

Northumbria University is committed to developing an inclusive, diverse and accessible campus and wider University community and are determined to ensure that opportunities we provide are open to all.

We are proud to work in partnership with AccessAble to provide Detailed Access Guides to our buildings and facilities across our City, Coach Lane and London Campuses. A Detailed Access Guide lets you know what access will be like when you visit somewhere. It looks at the route you will use getting in and what is available inside. All guides have Accessibility Symbols that give you a quick overview of what is available, and photographs to show you what to expect. The guides are produced by trained surveyors who visit our campuses annually to ensure you have trusted and accurate information.

You can use Northumbria’s AccessAble Guides anytime to check the accessibility of a building or facility and to plan your routes and journeys. Search by location, building or accessibility feature to find the information you need. 

We are dedicated to helping students who may require additional support during their student journey and offer 1-1 advice and guidance appropriate to individual requirements. If you feel you may need additional support you can find out more about what we offer here where you can also contact us with any questions you may have:

Accessibility support

Student Inclusion support

If you’d like to receive the latest updates from Northumbria about our courses, events, finance & funding then enter your details below.

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