Architecture Design Studies allows for a greater flexibility in course choices than the prescriptive Architecture qualification, enabling students to explore their personal interests in the wider field of architecture by including a range of courses chosen by students, delivered other University of Liverpool departments, including Sociology, Planning, Music and Geography.
Introduction
The Architecture Design Studies programme aims to provide a foundation in the general field of architecture and other related disciplines. It seeks to generate an enthusiasm for architecture, a spirit of inquiry, and to stimulate life-long learning.
As well as a first step towards professional activity, architecture design studies can be an enjoyable preparation for further study or other careers. It demands knowledge of many different but interrelated disciplines and the development of personal as well as technical skills. All students begin in year one on a common course with the BA (Hons) Architecture RIBA Part I accredited route, to provide some experience of design process, before students specialise in later years through a wide range of courses offered by other University of Liverpool departments.
The programme encourages investigative and critical approaches to architecture, and the development of research and specialist skills. It combines individual creativity with knowledge and understanding of a broad variety of technical and cultural issues. The aim is to provide a broad academic programme in architecture and cognate disciplines, which does not contain the design project modules needed by future architects, but which will equip graduates with useful skills and knowledge of the field.
What you'll learn
Structural and constructional principles
The theories and principles of environmental technologies, the relationship of environmental design and architectural technology to the climate, the development of a sustainable environment, and the impact that architectural decisions may have upon the natural world and its resources
The history and theory of architecture and urban design, the history of ideas, and the related disciplines of art and cultural studies
An appreciation of the influences on the contemporary built environment of individual buildings, the design of cities, past and present societies and wider global issues
The cultural context of architecture and urban design, and the related disciplines of art and landscape studies
How to make informed and considered judgements about the spatial, aesthetic, technical and social qualities of historical or contemporary designs
An understanding of architectural history and the key drivers informing change and development
Teaching Excellence Framework 2023
We’re proud to announce we’ve been awarded a
Gold rating for educational excellence.
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
Year one
Year one consists of compulsory modules, in which you will be introduced to the history and evolution of Architecture, developing foundational knowledge of the concepts and theories that will form the basis of the rest of your studies. We will look at the technology and principles of construction and structural design. Half of your module credits will be taken in studio design, enabling you to appreciate creative design process and learn architectural conventions.
Compulsory modules
CONTEXT 1.1: HISTORY OF ARCHITECTURE (ARCH171)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
History of architecture survey course.
CONTEXT 1.2 ARCHITECTURE AND THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT (ARCH121)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
The module introduces students to ways of looking at and understanding the architectural credentials of buildings. It is based on the German concept of ‘Gebäudelehre’, which translates into English as ‘building studies’. The module sits between, and is aiming to support the other module strands in year one, namely studio design; history and theory; and technology. Students are shown a series of buildings of varying sizes (XS, S, M, L, XL) and in the lectures these buildings will be presented by looking at and analysing their plans, sections, elevations, context, internal and external space, type, circulation and materiality. Furthermore, issues of private and public space and public and private buildings, ensembles, composition, symmetry / asymmetry, the repetition of elements and spaces, and fronts and backs, will be discussed. The module is aiming to equip students with tools to independently analyse and understand buildings, also with a view to enhance their design abilities. The module is delivered as a series of lectures, seminars, and (Covid-19 permitting) building visits on Campus. Assessment will be via submission of coursework.
Environmental Design 1 (ARCH111)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
The module is an introduction to the principles of net zero carbon design.
It aims to give students an understanding of the role of a building as a modifier of climate with reference to traditional climatically responsive architecture, and the role of buildings in the context of global energy usage, environmental impact, climate change and net zero carbon design.
STUDIO 1.1: DESIGN COMMUNICATION (ARCH101)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
Studio Design Module
STUDIO 1.2: DESIGN (ARCH103)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
Architecture Studio Design
STUDIO 1.3: DESIGN (ARCH152)
Credits: 30 /
Semester: semester 2
Architectural design studio
Technology 1.2: Structure and Construction (ARCH161)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
This module introduces the principles of structure and construction and the structural design, constructional and engineering problems associated with building design. Students gain an overview of fundamental structural and constructional systems, as well as the regulatory requirements that apply to the design of building.
Teaching is delivered in a series of lectures, which explain the core principles of stability, load transfer and structural systems, as well as the fundamental construction requirements of thermal insulation and waterproofing. The course illustrates these ideas using historic precedents and contemporary examples, while emphasising their impact on architectural design. As part of the module, students are guided through the construction process from substructure, superstructure, to envelope, roof and finishes. As well as gaining fundamental knowledge, students are expected to apply this understanding to the design of a technical design detail.
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
Year two
Year two has two strands, a continuation of your understanding of architectural processes and context, and a number of additional courses that you have the opportunity to choose. These courses are drawn from outside of the School of Architecture and feature sociology, planning, geography and psychology.
Compulsory modules
Context 2.1: History and Theory of Architecture (ARCH271)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
Architectural History and Theory module on Modern Architecture.
CONTEXT 2.1: URBAN STUDIES (ARCH221)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
The objective of the module is to promote an understanding of the forces that shape the human-made environment and the role played by design professionals. It aims to help students as future designers to understand that the city is a complex and dynamic system. It also aims to stimulate their active thinking and positive responses to various urban phenomena in order to generate appropriate strategies that can effectively solve design problems and facilitate the city’s sustainability. Through a series of lectures on urban history, case studies, urban design theories and methodologies, as well as debates on urban sustainability, this module is to enhance students’ awareness of the nature of cities, the formation and transformation of their urban forms and to obtain basic urban design skills.
ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN 2 (ARCH211)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
This module introduces students to energy and environmental issues, particularly those that must be faced by the discipline of architecture. The aim of this module is to provide an introduction to design of passive environmental systems for buildings, their integration into building fabric and structural systems, and selection of appropriate equipment and materials. Both the fundamentals and presentations of case studies (including lessons from the vernacular) will be used to enhance the understanding environmental simulation. The module will be delivered by weekly 2-hour lectures, and assessed . There are two mandatory assessments: a Group Report on Vernacular Architecture and the Application of Passive Strategies (50% of total mark), and an individual report (50% of total mark) showing evidence of applying passive strategies for the students’ design studio project (for students taking Year 2 Design Studio) or a critique of a contemporary building .on its potential to use appropriate passive strategies for the climate it resides in.
Technology 2.2: Structural Design (ARCH261)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
Lecture based technology module.
This module explores the design collaboration between architects and engineers and its impact on architectural design.
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
Year three
Year three continues to develop core architectural understanding while more optional modules allow further broadening of student interests. A core module in third year is a two-semester dissertation course in which students can devote significant time to researching an area of particular interest to the student, something both useful in itself and potentially important to moving toward employment opportunities or further study at postgraduate level.
Compulsory modules
CONTEXT 3.1: HISTORY AND THEORY OF ARCHITECTURE (ARCH321)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
The module uses lectures from staff to introduce specialised research themes and topics in architectural history and theory, and is supported by group and individual research. Students are able to choose topics for which they would like to attend further group tutorials / seminars. The module is assessed by an MCQ exam (50%) and a 2,000-word essay (50%).
ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN 3 (ARCH311)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
The aim of the course is to develop from user requirements an introduction to design of environmental systems for large buildings, selection of appropriate equipment and materials, and their integration into building fabric and structural systems. The three topics are Artificial Lighting, Acoustics, and Thermal Environment and are delivered by a mixture of lectures and case studies.
Practice Management (ARCH371)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
The objective of the module is to provide a basic understanding of practice management and the role architects play in the procurement of buildings. It aims to provide a context for the professional life of an architect and explain the functions of the other key players.
The module covers the broad spectrum of construction technologies, materials and methods – from intermediate to current to emerging – by presenting the work of internationally respected architects operating in different geographical, cultural and economic contexts. Key aspects of architectural technology are discussed through precedents, with the aim to understand how material and technical choices are impacted by – and in turn able to impact – design, from concept to detailing.
The module reflects upon the multiplicity of ways in which technology can respond to site, programme, budget and users, act as a vehicle to articulate typological, spatial and haptic qualities in design, and address sustainability in the broadest sense.
The module consists of lectures, drop-ins and tutorials. The assessment is based on an individual exam, an individual peer assessment and a group coursework assignment.
DESIGN STUDIES DISSERTATION (ARCH382)
Credits: 30 /
Semester: whole session
The dissertation offers students the opportunity to carry out an investigation on a topic of their own choice, under the guidance of a member of the academic or research staff of the School. The exact details of the topic of the investigation will be agreed between the student, the module coordinator and the supervisor. The normal means of presenting the investigation will be by a written dissertation of around 8,000 words (plus references, appendices etc…). However, in exceptional circumstances, the module coordinator will consider a student’s proposal for an additional method (with appropriately reduced written submission) – such as software, website, video or design.
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
How you'll learn
The course comprises of a series of lecture-based courses, with seminars, group work and one to one tutorials. As the choice of courses in largely driven by each student it isn’t possible to provide a comprehensive description but the majority of teaching will be delivered on campus, with additional support through online Teams based conversations.
Architecture Design Studies does not have a studio design component, so the course is arranged as a number of lecture based courses which deliver core material supplemented by seminars, one to one tutorials and self-directed research.
How you're assessed
Each course assessed in different manners, which we attempt to provide in a series of ways to allow each student to demonstrate their knowledge in a range of submission formats. This comprise of essays, multiple choice quizzes, posters, reports, exams and presentations.
Liverpool Hallmarks
We have a distinctive approach to education, the Liverpool Curriculum Framework, which focuses on research-connected teaching, active learning, and authentic assessment to ensure our students graduate as digitally fluent and confident global citizens.
Course options
Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.
The Liverpool School of Architecture benefits from comfortable, well-lit studio, work and seminar/review spaces, including a ‘hi-tech’ design studio, to which you will have 24-hour access.
Our facilities include a Print Media Design Suite, computing labs, workshops, a laser suite, a CNC router room, 3D printers, computing labs and research labs. A team of dedicated technicians will help you to get the most of these facilities and to realise your ideas.
Support for students with differing needs from the Disability advice and guidance team. They can identify and recommend appropriate support provisions for you.
Why study Architecture at Liverpool?
Established in 1894, the Liverpool School of Architecture was the first university in the UK to award a RIBA-accredited degree in Architecture
As one of the UK’s premier centres for architectural research and education, the Liverpool School of Architecture is the ideal place to pursue your architecture studies
We are ranked 3rd in the UK for Architecture (The Guardian University Guide 2025) and 7th in the Times and Sunday Times Higher Education Good University Guide 2025.
In the latest Research Excellence Framework assessment (REF 2021), we were rated 5th in the sector for overall research classified as world leading (4*) or internationally excellent (3*).
We are strongly focused on research, and have many leading architectural experts based amongst our teaching staff
Our membership of the School of the Arts and wider University presents intriguing specialist opportunities, in fields such as autonomous building systems, arts and building design, and climate change risk mitigation
Work is underway on a major refurbishment of our premises, which will comprise a new-build addition of more than 2,000M. The £23 million scheme has been designed by Dublin-based architects O’Donnell + Tuomey, and is expected to be completed by 2024.
What students say...
The ambition the school of architecture has is unmatched by any other in the U.K – and it shows.
The programme prepares its graduates for careers into a series of fields related to architecture and the built environment. Successful students may go on to work in architectural journalism, art history, museum curatorship and arts administration, executive roles in the construction industry and architects’ offices, as well as the wide range of careers open to graduates in arts and social science disciplines. The programme also prepares graduates for further full-time education at Masters level or in vocational degrees such as Town and Country Planning.
Architecture graduates can follow a few options. This programme is also an ideal preparation for further study and hugely valuable in a whole range of other careers.
Recent graduates have gone on to work in the following:
the Arts Council;
the construction industry;
and multidisciplinary think tanks;
games design and the fashion industry;
property development.
95% of students agree their main activity after graduation is meaningful.
Graduate Outcomes, 2018-19.
Fees and funding
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
Tuition fees
UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)
Full-time place, per year
£9,535
Year in industry fee
£1,850
Year abroad fee
£1,385
International fees
Full-time place, per year
£29,900
Year in industry fee
£1,850
Year abroad fee
£14,950
The UK full-time tuition fee, international course fee and fee for the year abroad for international students shown are correct for 2025/26 entry. We are currently awaiting confirmation of whether the year abroad fee for UK students, as well as the year in industry fee will change, so the fees shown are for 2024/25. Please note that the year abroad fee also applies to the year in China.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support. Learn more about fees and funding.
Additional costs
At first year level, where the course follows the K100 Architecture course, there is a limited requirement for graphical and model making materials. Most of these are supplied by the Architecture Course, but there will be some costs in purchasing course specific equipment (adjustable set square, pencils, erasers, pens, craft knife, glue etc). In the later years, where there are no studio modules the additional costs will only be those that might be associated with any academic course
Applicants with the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) are eligible for a reduction in grade requirements.
For this course, the offer is BBB with
A
in the EPQ.
You may automatically qualify for reduced entry requirements through our contextual offers scheme.
T levels
GCSE
GCSE Maths and English grade C/4
Subject requirements
This course requires a portfolio to accompany standard UCAS application
BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate
Distinction BB
BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma
DDD
International Baccalaureate
33 points with no score less than 4.
Irish Leaving Certificate
H1, H2, H2, H2, H3, H3
Scottish Higher/Advanced Higher
ABB in Advanced Highers, combinations of Advanced Highers and Scottish Highers are welcome
Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced
Acceptable at grade A and A level grades BB
Access
Considered if taking Art and Design Pathway 30 Level 3 credits at Distinction and 15 level 3 credits at Merit
International qualifications
Many countries have a different education system to that of the UK, meaning your qualifications may not meet our entry requirements. Completing your Foundation Certificate, such as that offered by the University of Liverpool International College, means you're guaranteed a place on your chosen course.
International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.
English language qualification
Requirements
IELTS
6.5 overall, with no component below 5.5
TOEFL iBT
88 overall, with minimum scores of listening 17, writing 17, reading 17 and speaking 19. TOEFL Home Edition not accepted.
Duolingo English Test
120 overall, with no component below 95
Pearson PTE Academic
61 overall, with no component below 59
LanguageCert Academic
70 overall, with no skill below 60
Cambridge IGCSE First Language English 0500
Grade C overall, with a minimum of grade 2 in speaking and listening. Speaking and listening must be separately endorsed on the certificate.
Cambridge IGCSE First Language English 0990
Grade 4 overall, with Merit in speaking and listening
Cambridge IGCSE Second Language English 0510/0511
0510: Grade B overall, with a minimum of grade 2 in speaking. Speaking must be separately endorsed on the certificate. 0511: Grade B overall.
Cambridge IGCSE Second Language English 0993/0991
0993: Grade 6 overall, with a minimum of grade 2 in speaking. Speaking must be separately endorsed on the certificate. 0991: Grade 6 overall.
International Baccalaureate English A: Literature or Language & Literature
Grade 5 at Standard Level or grade 5 at Higher Level
International Baccalaureate English B
Grade 7 at Standard Level or grade 6 at Higher Level
Cambridge ESOL Level 2/3 Advanced
176 overall, with no paper below 162
PRE-SESSIONAL ENGLISH
Do you need to complete a Pre-Sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?
The length of Pre-Sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.
If your qualification isn't listed here, or you're taking a combination of qualifications, contact us for advice
If you are returning to learning, have had a disrupted education or are switching career pathways, the one-year Go Higher diploma qualifies you to apply for University of Liverpool arts, humanities and social sciences programmes
