Candidates who exhibit limited artistic background may be called for a portfolio interview. The Subject Architecture is concerned with design in the Built Environment, primarily with the design of buildings to satisfy both aesthetic and technical requirements. The subject also lays emphasis on user requirements, the social and cultural context of buildings and their relationship to the wider built and natural environments. The course develops knowledge and skills in architectural design through a series of design projects complemented by lecture courses, site visits and study tours. The course normally lasts three years and has a three-stage modular structure, with each stage consisting of six modules.
Students can have a free choice of one half-module elective at each stage.
Architecture covers a wide range of subjects from the scientific to the artistic and the course is responsive to new challenges such as computer-aided design and environmental issues. Careers Architects can be found involved with a surprisingly wide range of activities. Many continue to work in private architectural practices ranging in size from two or three people to a staff of over 100, providing a general practice service to private and institutional clients, designing individual houses, or social housing, commercial developments or civic buildings. But many others have diversified. They may work in planning or housing policy or be concerned with the conservation of historic buildings, interior or even furniture design.