Architecture

Overview

The Master in Architecture is delivered as an inter-linked series of studio projects and related studies that lead you towards your final year design thesis. The projects run on a Vertical Studio structure across two semesters also known as the SuperStudio. The Vertical Studio approach is one in which all students are taught together across all year groups in distinctly themed Studios. The resulting cross-cohort model replicates the dynamics, opportunities and challenges inherent in an architectural practice.



The MArch explores architecture that responds to the complex and changing context of architecture and urbanism and the transformations taking place in current society.



The course team of academics, historians, practitioners, advisors, artists and researchers are committed to understanding and documenting our existing built heritage while proposing imaginative and alternative futures in both the urban and rural context that are socially and ecologically responsible.



An important part of this is to address the wider issues facing the profession and in providing a forum to investigate, challenge preconceptions, explore and fully engage the role of the architect in society.

Year one

Ideas Lab

MArch Design 1

Buildings Climate Agency

Professional Practice Management



Year two

Thesis Design Studio

Dissertation

Project Leadership for Architects

A level

Applicants must have an undergraduate architecture degree giving exemption from the RIBA/ARB Part 1.



Applicants must hold a degree with at least 2:2 honours or equivalent.



Applicants should demonstrate a critical awareness of the profession and the discipline of architecture. Such is typically demonstrated (but not exclusively) through experience in architectural practice in accordance with RIBA/ARB regulations for practical training.



Applicants will be asked to submit an architectural design portfolio to support their application and may be invited for interview.



English Language Requirements

English language requirements for international applicants

The minimum requirement for this course is Academic IELTS 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5. Trinity ISE: Pass at level III also meets this requirement for Tier 4 visa purposes.



Ulster recognises a number of other English language tests and comparable IELTS equivalent scores.



• For English language requirements go to: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/global/apply/english-language-requirements



• For Your country go to: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/global/apply/country



Additional Entry Requirements

International applicants should note that if they wish to undertake Part 3 (to lead to ARB registration as an architect and as an RIBA chartered architect) they must be successful in an application to ARB for their first architecture degree to be assessed by ARB as satisfying Part 1.

Your Application

You can apply directly to Ulster at any time of year. We advise that you submit your application no later than two weeks prior to your course start date. This is to ensure there is sufficient time for your application to be reviewed and, should you be made an offer, time for you to complete all the necessary pre-enrolment tasks.



Some programmes will have specific deadlines as additional selection (e.g. interview, portfolio submission etc) is required, so please check the course page to ensure you have sufficient time to complete your application.

2 years full-time. The Master of Architecture is a full-time course based at the Belfast School of Architecture which is located on the Ulster University Belfast campus. You are normally expected to be in attendance Monday - Friday. A typical week on the MArch includes time in the design studio and in tutorials, seminars and lectures.

Start Date: September 2026.

Careers and Opportunities

Graduate employers

Graduates from this course are now working for:

Office for Metropolitan Architecture

Grimshaw Architects

Hall

Black and Douglas

Todd Architects

White Ink Architects

FaulknerBrowns Architects

Office of Public Works



With this degree you could become:

Part 2 graduate architect

Architectural Assistant

Urban Designer

Planning Administrator

Sustainability Administrator

Conservation Administrator

Research and Development Officer



MArch graduates from Ulster University are working in many different practices both nationally and internationally on a range of exciting building and urban projects.



The knowledge gained during this professional degree (i.e. RIBA Part II) will not only support a wide range of employment opportunities in architecture practices, urban design bodies, architecture conservation organisations, and many governmental and private relevant institutions but also facilitate the route to a PhD level research.