Architecture

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.



Professional recognition

Architects Registration Board (ARB)

Accredited by the Architects Registration Board (ARB) for the purpose of a Part 2 qualification.



Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA)

Validated by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) at Part 2 level for the purpose of eligibility for membership of the RIBA.

Year one

• Ideas Lab

• MArch Design 1

• Buildings Climate Agency



Year two

• Professional Practice Management

• 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.

2 years - Full-time. You are normally expected to be in attendance Monday - Friday.

Start Date: September 2025

Careers & Opportunities

Job roles

With this degree you could become:

• Part 2 graduate architect

• Architectural Assistant

• Urban Designer

• Planning Administrator

• Sustainability Administrator

• Conservation Administrator

• Research and Development Officer



Career options

MArch graduates from Ulster Unversity 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.