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Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
Course overview
-
L27 -
City Campus -
Full-Time -
2 Years -
21 Sep 2026
Header image: Lagos 2054: E(k)oes of a new Haven by Abdullahi Dahiru
This Master of Architecture course is designed for students who’ve already completed RIBA Part 1 or equivalent non-RIBA accredited courses in architecture or a related design discipline. This could be in subjects such as urban design, architectural technology, interior architecture, interior design, landscape architecture, and games design.
Driving your development
This two-year course supports your progress towards professional qualification, meeting the requirements for Architects Registration Board (ARB) prescription, Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Part 2 validation and the Quality Assurance Agency’s (QAA) Architecture Subject Benchmark.
As part of this MArch course, you’ll:
- Explore and develop your values, knowledge, skills, and techniques to become a creative and responsive architect, aligned with ARB’s Competency Outcomes and RIBA standards
- Explore sustainable design principles to address social, ecological, and environmental challenges
- Gain confidence in speculative and experimental design approaches to address complex architectural challenges
- Build strong research capabilities in both academic and design-led contexts to underpin architectural proposals
- Consider physical, cultural, and societal contexts at varying scales and complexities
- Deepen your understanding of ethical, sustainable, and inclusive design principles and their application in professional contexts
- Enhance your ability to collaborate effectively within interdisciplinary teams and contribute meaningfully to studio culture
- Advance technical proficiency in digital technologies, which is essential for future architectural practice.
Professional body exemptions
Our Master of Architecture is designed to meet the architecture degree requirements and the requirements of professional accreditation bodies:
- The Architects Registration Board’s (ARB) prescription of qualifications in architecture education
- The Royal Institute of British Architects’ (RIBA) validation criteria for Part 2 programmes in architecture
- The Quality Assurance Agency’s (QAA) subject benchmark in architecture
Your academic community
You’ll study in a vibrant environment perfect for architectural debate. Our diverse community of leading practitioners, academic educators, and visiting professors provides a range of opportunities for discussion and engagement. Get involved now by following us on Instagram to explore our postgraduate Master of Architecture UK programme and Leeds School of Architecture.
Guest lectures
The Leeds School of Architecture Open Lecture Series and Symposia features leading voices from across the architectural field, offering you cutting-edge ideas and practices. In addition, you’re invited to participate in events hosted by the Leeds School of Arts as part of the INSIDE/OUT lecture series, which further enriches the academic and cultural dialogue. Current lectures can be attended in person, and past events are available for viewing via the Leeds Arts Research Centre website, providing an ongoing resource for inspiration and learning.
Industry links
Leeds School of Architecture is closely linked to professional societies, such as the Leeds Society of Architects, West Yorkshire Society of Architects, and RIBA Yorkshire region.
Funding your studies
Funding options for this MArch course vary depending on whether you’re a UK or international student and studying the course full-time or part-time.
If you’re a full-time UK student continuing your study after your undergraduate degree, you’ll be eligible to apply to extend your undergraduate financial support. Part-time UK students can apply for a Postgraduate Master’s Loan. Overseas students may be eligible for international scholarships. You can find out more via the RIBA funding advice page.
Why study the MArch Architecture at Leeds Beckett University?
- Boost your credentials with ARB prescription and RIBA Part 2 validation
- Industry experienced world-leading academics with extensive networks give you exposure to practitioners, leading consultants, and other experts
- Leeds School of Architecture is well established and has a rich history of teaching and developing architectural education since 1903
- Benefit from our local and international architectural practice links
- Great alumni success with award-winning student outcomes
Changes to architecture education requirements
The Architects Registration Board (ARB) has published updated educational requirements necessary for registration as an architect which will come into force from December 2027. Find out more about the changes by visiting the transition FAQ section on the ARB's website.
Explore videos and blogs
Master of Architecture | Kabilesh's experience Hear Kabilesh explain about his project, which helped him achieve a distinction in his Master of Architecture (MArch) at Leeds School of Architecture.
Building a better future for city’s community Senior lecturer, Craig Stott, explains how our university’s Project Office – a RIBA Chartered Architecture Practice based in our School of Architecture – is giving students the opportunity to support not-for-profit and charitable organisations in need of architectural input.
Everything you need to know
Discover all there is to know about the course, from entry requirements and fees to exploring the school you’ll be joining - we’ve got it covered.
Entry requirements
Applicants should have at least a second class honours degree in the cognate subject of spatial design, such as Architecture, Architectural Technology, Interior Design, Urban Design, Landscape Design, Game Design or Film.
All suitable candidates who meet the entry requirements will be required to submit a portfolio of degree and work experience and may be required to attend an interview. Your portfolio will be evaluated against RIBA criteria by the course team.
All applications should be supported by a reference, either academic or professional; you can download our reference template for completion. Please note references should be accompanied by a covering letter on headed paper or emailed directly by the referee.
All applicants should satisfy our English Language requirements. Please note the IELTS requirement for this course are IELTS 6.5 with no skill below 6.0. Further details about acceptable equivalent qualifications can be found on our International Student information pages.
Entry requirements
Applicants should have at least a second class honours degree in the cognate subject of spatial design, such as Architecture, Architectural Technology, Interior Design, Urban Design, Landscape Design, Game Design or Film.
All suitable candidates who meet the entry requirements will be required to submit a portfolio of degree and work experience and may be required to attend an interview. Your portfolio will be evaluated against RIBA criteria by the course team.
All applications should be supported by a reference, either academic or professional; you can download our reference template for completion. Please note references should be accompanied by a covering letter on headed paper or emailed directly by the referee.
All applicants should satisfy our English Language requirements. Please note the IELTS requirement for this course are IELTS 6.5 with no skill below 6.0. Further details about acceptable equivalent qualifications can be found on our International Student information pages.
IELTS
All applicants should satisfy our English Language requirements. Please note the IELTS requirement for this course are IELTS 6.5 with no skill below 6.0. Further details about acceptable equivalent qualifications can be found on our International Student information pages.
Independent study is a crucial part of learning at university and you will be required to undertake many hours of self-directed research and reading, and preparation and writing of assessments. Your course is delivered through a number of modules, which will help you to plan your time and establish a study routine. Outside of your lectures, workshops and tutorials, a range of support is available to assist with your independent study. Our subject-specific librarians will be on hand to direct you to the specialist learning and study-skill resources. You’ll also be assigned an academic advisor to give you tailored feedback and support.
Modules, teaching and learning
What you'll learn
Explore and critically evaluate an existing site, examining its history and context to inform appropriate architectural propositions. During Thesis 1, we'll consider a range of global, cultural, social, and economic factors that shape the built environment. You'll then investigate how these influence design through the perspectives of end users and stakeholders. As you progress, you'll deepen your understanding of social sustainability, social value, and inclusive design, and how these principles inform the development of your project brief and narrative. To conclude, you'll produce an initial architectural proposition that responds innovatively to both global and local challenges.
In this module, you'll build on your previous studies in context and theory by undertaking your own independent research and producing an extended essay. The module allows you to explore topics that align with your level 6 interests in design, histories, and theories. You'll be supported by tutors with a broad range of research specialisms, who will offer relevant expertise and guide you in developing your own research projects.
This module introduces the broader context of architectural practice helping you to understand the role of the architect. You'll develop an awareness of the collaborative and multifaceted practice of design and its integral specialisms and means of resolution. We'll pay particular attention to the importance of regulation, organisation, architects code of conduct, and the financial implications of design. Upon completion, you'll be able to work responsibly, reflectively, and ethically, equipped with sound judgement, acknowledgement of competences, and a personal and collective responsibility for project process and outcomes.
Select, gather, evaluate, prioritise, and organise relevant information and material to inform your architectural design approach. Your proposal should establish how the design process translates into a physical, material form – both strategically and in detail. You'll then explore, test, make, and resolve design challenges across scales from micro to macro, while adhering to relevant legislation and the desire for zero-carbon design. For the integrated technology part of the module, you'll examine and articulate how technological solutions are implemented within your thesis 2 design project.
What you'll learn
Undertake a sophisticated and critical exploration of experimental research methods and forms of representation. Your work will take the form of a self-directed research project within the context of the design studio theme. You'll analyse the historical, cultural, environmental, and social values that shape architecture. By looking at past projects, stories, and contexts, you'll develop your own ideas to inform your final design thesis. Building on this, you'll create design proposals that respond to current architectural issues, show originality in applying your knowledge, and experiment with new ideas, tools, and representational methods.
Examine the professional aspects of architectural practice. You'll explore the Architects' Code of Conduct, the construction industry, the roles and responsibilities of the profession, development controls, construction law, regulation, design costs, and project and practice management. Through seminar sessions, you'll also develop a professional and ethical position, which will be embedded in your design thesis. Ultimately, this module aims to inspire a keen interest in the current issues shaping architectural practice today.
Develop the skills to critically and effectively apply knowledge within a chosen setting. This module supports a committed approach to equality, diversity, and inclusion by encouraging the design of environments that strengthen relationships between people, communities, and the natural world. Through informed, research-driven processes, you'll act as a reflective practitioner able to develop architectural briefs and narratives and communicate clearly with specialist and non-specialist audiences, while respecting diverse perspectives. The integrated technology component builds your ability to construct well-reasoned technological arguments, using principles of material and energy systems to support your thesis project.
Thesis 5 marks the final stage of your learning journey and reflects your individual interests and developing specialism. You'll design and deliver an ambitious project that demonstrates your ability to work at scale and with complexity. You'll respond to briefs, clients, users, and wider social and environmental contexts, with a strong focus on place-making. Throughout the module, you'll be encouraged to take bold, creative approaches to producing well-resolved architectural designs that consider artistic, spatial, social, environmental, experiential, and technical aspects. During the integrated technology component, you'll develop and present a self-directed research proposal that supports your design project and shows advanced technical understanding.
Fees and funding
The annual tuition fee for students entering in the 2026/27 academic year is anticipated to be £9,790 (the maximum annual tuition fee cap announced by the UK Government, which is subject to parliamentary approval).
For each subsequent year of study, the University may charge up to the maximum annual tuition fee cap set by the UK Government, which may increase in line with any uplift determined by the UK Government by law or government policy (such increases are expected to be linked to inflation).
£17,500
International 2026
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2026/27 is £17500. The amount you will pay is fixed at this level for each year of your course.
Fees and funding
The annual tuition fee for students entering in the 2026/27 academic year is anticipated to be £9,790 (the maximum annual tuition fee cap announced by the UK Government, which is subject to parliamentary approval).
For each subsequent year of study, the University may charge up to the maximum annual tuition fee cap set by the UK Government, which may increase in line with any uplift determined by the UK Government by law or government policy (such increases are expected to be linked to inflation).
Additional course costs
Tuition Fees
Your tuition fees cover the cost of registration, tuition, academic supervision, assessments and examinations.
The following are also included in the cost of your course:
- 24/7 Library and student IT support
- Free wifi via eduroam
- Skills workshops and resources
- Library membership, giving access to more than 500,000 printed, multimedia and digital resources
- Access to software, including five free copies of Microsoft Office 365 to install on your PC,laptop and MAC, and access to free high-end software via the Leeds Beckett remote app
- Loan of high-end media equipment to support your studies
Access to course resources, equipment and facilities, including:
- Free entry to Inside/Out lecture and Leeds School of Architecture Open Lecture series, symposiums and conferences.
- Studio equipment and facilities, including 3D printer, laser cutters, CNC machine, a dedicated CAD suite and specialist software.
- Free access to the Leeds School of Arts (LSA) green screen facility and high-spec camera equipment.
- Free access to LSA Building CAD room and high-performance computers.
- Free access to Large Scale 3D Scanner and IPad Lidar Scan.
- Free access to university exhibition space for WIP / pop-up / final exhibitions.
- Free access to Virtual Reality (VR) headsets
In many cases, costs associated with your course will be included in your course fee. However, in some cases there are ‘essential’ additional costs (those that you will be required to meet in addition to your course fee), and/or ‘optional’ additional costs (costs that are not required, but that you might choose to pay). We have included those essential or optional additional costs that relate to your course, below.
Essential Costs
- Design studio site visits and study trips, various options including overseas trip (£60-500).
- Stationery / physical model-making materials (£200-500).
- Specific research projects relating to tech or context modules (travel £30-100).
- External printing for reports, dissertations, and exhibitions (£100-250).
Other study-related expenses to consider: materials that you will need to complete your course such as books (whilst the library provides access to readings recommended for your modules, you may wish to purchase your own copies of some books); you can also make suggestions for books to be added to Library stock; placement costs (these may include travel expenses and living costs); student visas (international students only); printing, photocopying and stationery (you may need to pay for multiple copies of your dissertation or final project to be printed and bound); events associated with your course such as field trips; study abroad opportunities (travel costs and accommodation, visas and immunisations). Other costs could include academic conferences (travel costs) and professional-body membership (where applicable). The costs you will need to cover for graduation will include gown hire and guest tickets, and optional extras such as professional photography.
As well as your mobile phone, you will also need access to a desktop computer and/or laptop to complete assignments and access university online services such as MyBeckett, your virtual learning environment. You can book and borrow AV equipment through the media equipment service accessed online via the student hub and located in the library at each campus. Equipment includes: 360 Cameras, iPads, GoPros, MacBooks, portable data projectors, portable projection screens, flipchart stands, remote presenters, digital cameras and camcorders, SLR cameras, speakers, microphones, headphones, headsets, tripods, digital audio recorders and PC/laptops (a laptop loans service is provided on campus in the library on both campuses). Student laptops are also available from the laptop lockers located in the libraries.
This list is not exhaustive, costs are approximate and will vary depending on the choices you make during your course. Any rental, travel or living costs are also in addition to your course fees. If you choose to study via distance learning, you may not be able to access all of the facilities listed if you are not able to visit us on campus.
£17,500
For students entering in 2026
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2026/27 is £17500. The amount you will pay is fixed at this level for each year of your course.
Additional course costs
Tuition Fees
Your tuition fees cover the cost of registration, tuition, academic supervision, assessments and examinations.
The following are also included in the cost of your course:
- 24/7 Library and student IT support
- Free wifi via eduroam
- Skills workshops and resources
- Library membership, giving access to more than 500,000 printed, multimedia and digital resources
- Access to software, including five free copies of Microsoft Office 365 to install on your PC,laptop and MAC, and access to free high-end software via the Leeds Beckett remote app
- Loan of high-end media equipment to support your studies
In many cases, costs associated with your course will be included in your course fee. However, in some cases there are ‘essential’ additional costs (those that you will be required to meet in addition to your course fee), and/or ‘optional’ additional costs (costs that are not required, but that you might choose to pay). We have included those essential or optional additional costs that relate to your course, below.
Access to course resources, equipment and facilities, including:
- Free entry to Inside/Out lecture and Leeds School of Architecture Open Lecture series, symposiums and conferences.
- Studio equipment and facilities, including 3D printer, laser cutters, CNC machine, a dedicated CAD suite and specialist software.
- Free access to the Leeds School of Arts (LSA) green screen facility and high-spec camera equipment.
- Free access to LSA Building CAD room and high-performance computers.
- Free access to Large Scale 3D Scanner and IPad Lidar Scan.
- Free access to university exhibition space for WIP / pop-up / final exhibitions.
- Free access to Virtual Reality (VR) headsets
Essential Costs
- Design studio site visits and study trips, various options including overseas trip (£60-500).
- Stationery / physical model-making materials (£200-500).
- Specific research projects relating to tech or context modules (travel £30-100).
- External printing for reports, dissertations, and exhibitions (£100-250).
Other study-related expenses to consider: materials that you will need to complete your course such as books (whilst the library provides access to readings recommended for your modules, you may wish to purchase your own copies of some books); you can also make suggestions for books to be added to Library stock; placement costs (these may include travel expenses and living costs); student visas (international students only); printing, photocopying and stationery (you may need to pay for multiple copies of your dissertation or final project to be printed and bound); events associated with your course such as field trips; study abroad opportunities (travel costs and accommodation, visas and immunisations). Other costs could include academic conferences (travel costs) and professional-body membership (where applicable). The costs you will need to cover for graduation will include gown hire and guest tickets, and optional extras such as professional photography.
As well as your mobile phone, you will also need access to a desktop computer and/or laptop to complete assignments and access university online services such as MyBeckett, your virtual learning environment. You can book and borrow AV equipment through the media equipment service accessed online via the student hub and located in the library at each campus. Equipment includes: 360 Cameras, iPads, GoPros, MacBooks, portable data projectors, portable projection screens, flipchart stands, remote presenters, digital cameras and camcorders, SLR cameras, speakers, microphones, headphones, headsets, tripods, digital audio recorders and PC/laptops (a laptop loans service is provided on campus in the library on both campuses). Student laptops are also available from the laptop lockers located in the libraries.
This list is not exhaustive, costs are approximate and will vary depending on the choices you make during your course. Any rental, travel or living costs are also in addition to your course fees. If you choose to study via distance learning, you may not be able to access all of the facilities listed if you are not able to visit us on campus.
Funding support for your studies
Discover more about our range of postgraduate funding options including a Master's Loan of up to £13,206, and our 20% alumni discount*
*Terms apply
Career prospects
There’s a lot to consider when choosing a course. Take a look at the team you’ll be working with, employability statistics and career prospects to help make up your mind.
Career Prospects
This Master of Architecture course helps you develop the key skills and professional mindset valued by employers – including sound judgement, teamwork, and a strong sense of personal and collective responsibility. You’ll deepen your understanding of statutory frameworks and gain confidence to deliver architectural projects with integrity, accountability, and ethical awareness.
On successful completion, you’ll meet the architecture degree requirements and achieve ARB prescription and RIBA Part 2 accreditation, enabling you to progress toward full qualification as a registered architect in the UK. With this qualification, you’ll be ready to work across a range of professional contexts, including:
- Commercial architecture practices
- Research institutions
- Related design sectors such as urban design, interior design, landscape architecture, architectural visualisation, film, animation, and games design
- Local authorities and government organisations
You may also choose to continue your studies by pursuing a specialist or research-based degree – such as our PG Dip Architectural Professional Practice, which meets the architecture degree requirements, provides RIBA Part 3 validation and the final step toward becoming a fully qualified architect.
This is one of the very first Master of Architecture programmes in the UK to align with the newly introduced ARB competence outcomes. It is open to applicants seeking to progress from Part 1, as well as those wishing to redirect their career path towards becoming a qualified architect. The course combines intensive studio-led learning with ARB and RIBA Part 2 accreditation. The course embraces a visionary and speculative approach to architectural education. Taught by world-leading academics, this two-year programme offers a globally recognised qualification and welcomes the next generation of architectural leaders.”
Hyun Jun Park
Course Director
Hyun Jun Park
Course Director / Leeds School of Arts
Hyun Jun Park is a practitioner, writer, curator, and Course Director of Postgraduate Architecture at the Leeds School of Architecture.
architecture research group
Our research themes include building performance and energy, civil engineering water research, spatial and neighbourhood planning and architectural history and theory. All our research is linked closely to industry through partnerships and professionally supported activities.
Beckett Careers Team
Our careers service is not just there for undergraduates, we support our postgraduate taught and research students too.
Your postgraduate degree will boost your CV and help you stand out from the crowd. Whether you're just starting out on your chosen career path, changing careers or moving to the next level, we can provide you with expert advice and resources to help you take the next steps to achieving your goals.
Student life
At Leeds Beckett your experience is important to us, find out more about what to expect from your time on this course and life at uni.
Experience Leeds Beckett
Our state-of-the-art facilities and learning environments give you everything you need to succeed – whether that’s completing your current studies or joining our cutting-edge research teams.
Thinking of staying at home for your studies?
It’s a great option for lots of our local students
