Architecture

Our Master of Architecture programme is offered by the Cork Centre for Architectural Education (CCAE) at UCC in conjunction with the Munster Technological University (MTU).

Course Content
During your study, you will be introduced to a diverse programme, approached through creativity and scholarship, and where there will be significant opportunities to anticipate, speculate upon, and define new possibilities in the field of architecture.

The established academic infrastructure and philosophy of the CCAE are defined by a commitment to excellence in design, and consideration of wider cultural and theoretical phenomena. This framework is extended into the master's programme, where students will pose certain questions on the spaces and cities we inhabit, through a process of critical questioning and the dual acts of text and assemblage.

Central to enabling these investigations and explorations will be the series of prominent academics and architectural practitioners contributing to this programme. You will be encouraged to participate in a stimulating academic environment. You will be required to address the wider problematics that are raised by changes in contemporary society and provide clues as to how architecture might operate in such an environment.

The course is intelligently paced and driven by a thematic framework. You will acquire a comprehensive set of skills that will help you to understand the role of the architect in shaping the modern city.

Modules:
The course is arranged over three teaching periods during the academic year (September to September). You will take modules to the value of 90 credits as follows:
AT6011 Design Research: Cultures and Context (5 credits)
AT6012 Design Research: Technology Transformations (5 credits)
AT6013 Design Research Studio: Investigation and Formation (20 credits)
AT6014 Design Project (30 credits)
AT6015 Exhibition Design and Implementation (15 credits)
AT6016 Documentation and Dissemination of Design and Design Process (15 credits)

Candidates must meet the following criteria:
(a) Hold a BA/BSc (Hons) degree in Architecture, awarded on the equivalent of not less than 240 ECTS credits, from an accredited school of architecture, passed at Second Class Honours Grade II or higher;

or

(b) *holders of BA/BSc (Hons) Architecture degree with less than Second Class Honours Grade II plus a period of work-based learning presented in the form of a portfolio of a standard equivalent to, or higher than, Second Class Honours Grade II. ‌

*Note: In addition to the minimum criteria, all applicants are required to submit a portfolio of architectural design work to be evaluated by at least two of the following: Centre Director, Associate Director and Programme Coordinator or their nominees who will assess the suitability of the candidate for the Cork Centre for Architectural Education Master of Architecture course. Please view our Portfolio Guidance Document MArch. Candidates may be called for an interview.

Admission to the programme will be subject to the approval of the Cork Centre for Architectural Education.

Closing Date: Rolling deadline. Open until all places have been filled. Early application is advised.

1 year full-time.

Start Date: 9th September 2024.

Skills and Careers Information
On graduating from the course you will have the ability to think critically about architecture. You will be able to form studies involving advanced spatial analysis, and develop innovative architectural design. You will also be able to apply an international context when designing. These are supported by your representational skills, including advanced analogue and digital media skills including 2D and 3D CAD and 3D Studio Max, and sophisticated model-making skills. Our graduates are highly sought for this range of expertise.

Many opportunities exist for our graduates both in Ireland and abroad, not only in the field of architecture, but also in other related spatial practices and disciplines, such as film, new-media, and exhibition design. The way in which students investigate and develop their design thesis project also means that they are aware of the requirements of postgraduate research, and may choose to pursue available doctoral studies through a PhD by Creative Practice.