Our MArch Programme provides an environment for intellectual discussion about current architectural and cultural discourses. We promote creativity, innovation, imagination and experimentation in our studios, where we integrate research by design methods, hands-on seminars and the inclusion of various new technologies, media and formats in the design process.
Our tutors have strong research and professional backgrounds, which grants our students competence and confidence in all areas of the profession and scales of intervention, from urban design to the technical development of the building.
Our design schemes explore both local and international issues. Working with real projects in the UK context allows input from national stakeholders to the briefing and review process; by tackling international issues, we reinforce global citizenship, acknowledge the international nature of our cohorts, and develop the skills to work in different contexts on site and remotely. You will have the opportunity to take semester one of year two abroad at one of our approved exchange Schools of Architecture in China, Australia or Europe.
Our successful international field trips, design competitions, collaborations with different universities and the diverse range of our exchange programme further support this vision, and we’ve a very generous offering of prizes for students performing strongly in areas of our MArch degree. Our graduates have an excellent record of employment in both internationally renowned offices and small-scale specialist practices.
Find out more about the design work produced by our most recent MArch4 students and MArch5 students.
The Master of Architecture (MArch) programme is accredited as a RIBA Part 2 and a LAM Part 2 award, and is a professional/undergraduate Masters qualification available to students with a BA/BSc in Architecture and RIBA Part 1 or LAM Part 1. This degree is validated by the RIBA and LAM, and prescribed by ARB as a Part 2 qualification towards access to the Architectural Profession in the UK.
Candidates should be aware that those who do not have RIBA Part 1 on joining the MArch here at Liverpool, may apply to the Architects Registration Board (ARB) upon MArch course completion to be considered for RIBA Part 1 (for a fee payable to ARB). The University of Liverpool has no say in this process, which is undertaken independently by the candidate.
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
Year one focuses on the relationship between architecture and the contemporary city. Architectural design is supported by lectures, seminars and carefully planned individual and group work. Taught modules on urban design, professional practice, research methods and contemporary approaches to technology also complement the work in the studio.
You will take entirely mandatory modules in your first year. These modules are classed as Level 6 (pass mark 40%), and will make up 30% of your final degree classification. Modules ARCH401, ARCH402, ARCH403 and ARCH404 are a consecutive related set of design projects.
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
You will begin the second year with a design project led by your own interests, with brief-making and a personal exploration of a wide range of media and resources as part of the design process, strongly supported by seminars and guest lectures delivered by world-class tutors, academics, practitioners and Honorary Professors. These included Ian Ritchie and Hans Van De Heijden in 2020/21.
You will be required to choose between either ARCH520 or ARCH523 for as your optional module in your second year. Your second year modules are classed as Level 7 (pass mark 50%), and will make up 70% of your final degree classification.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| DISSERTATION (ARCH521) | 30 |
| THESIS DESIGN (ARCH522) | 45 |
| THESIS SUSTAINABILITY AND EQUITY REPORT (ARCH524) | 15 |
| Optional modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| RESEARCH BY DESIGN STUDIES (ARCH520) | 30 |
| EXCHANGE STUDIES (OVERSEAS) 3 (ARCH523) | 30 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
You’ll be examined and assessed by studio presentations and coursework submissions.
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.
The Liverpool Curriculum framework sets out our distinctive approach to education. Our teaching staff support our students to develop academic knowledge, skills, and understanding alongside our graduate attributes:
Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:
All this is underpinned by our core value of inclusivity and commitment to providing a curriculum that is accessible to all students.
Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.
University of Liverpool students can choose from an exciting range of study placements at partner universities worldwide.
Take a semester of your second year of study at one of our worldwide partner institutions.
Spend a summer abroad on a study placement or research project at one of our worldwide partner institutions.
Day-to-day teaching takes place in the School of the Arts, an ornate Georgian property located on the historic Abercromby Square. Students will also have the chance to thrive in our Royal Institute of British Architexts (RIBA) award-winning studio spaces that stimulate creativity and reflect the working environment of architects in practice.
From arrival to alumni, we’re with you all the way:
The ambition the school of architecture has is unmatched by any other in the U.K – and it shows.
Want to find out more about student life?
Chat with our student ambassadors and ask any questions you have.
Recent employers include: