Architecture

The course will expose you to a range of topics where you will gain hands-on experience in a specialised setting.

Years 1-3

You will develop an understanding of the basic elements and techniques of architectural design, philosophy and technology, as well as areas relating to the practice of architecture as a business. Your design skills and creativity will increase and improve, and you will learn about architectural history and theory, construction processes, materials, structures and other aspects that define human comfort. By the end of Year 3 you will have become much more independent, be able to tackle complex problems or scenarios and be ready for a period of professional practice.

Year 4

An architecture education in the UK is required by the professional and statutory bodies to include 5 years of full-time learning on a professionally accredited course. In addition, in order to be eligible for the examination that awards RIBA and ARB Part 3, and which is necessary to become a legally registered architect, students are required to undertake 2 years of professional experience in the workplace. As is typical, this does not carry academic credit, however, it is an essential part of the overall learning experience required to enter the profession. It is a salaried employment and can be undertaken anywhere in the world.

As is common practice in UK Schools, the first of these two years takes place between Degree and Master’s level study. This forms Year 4, and is sometimes referred to as the ‘Professional Experience Year’ or ‘Year Out’. Importantly, the professional experience gained in Year 4 is recorded by the student on a regular basis and monitored by a Professional Studies Advisor within the School. This ensures that you are obtaining the appropriate breadth of experience and offers you guidance and support throughout this time.

Year 5 & 6

These years offer a very different learning experience to Years 1 – 3. In Years 5 and 6 your learning is characterised by extended research-led projects which address scenarios of considerable scale, scope, and complexity. You will engage with complex issues relating to the design of buildings and our environment, working individually and in groups. There will be many opportunities to pursue specialist routes, define your own interests and make decisions independently and purposefully.

Student stories

Hear from our students and graduates about their experiences studying this course:

Learning Methods

We offer a unique learning environment which sets us apart from other architecture courses in Scotland. You’ll receive the guidance and support necessary for you to develop skills in creative enquiry, challenge, and exploration. You will work in a dedicated studio work space, which will act as a place to individually draw and model ideas within the overall social setting of the design studio.

Teaching is mainly project-based with a blend of directed learning, tutorials and live situations where you will have the opportunity to apply your knowledge and skills in practice.

You will benefit from hearing and connecting with visiting professionals from a range of disciplines and will have the opportunity to travel, whether on study trips to look at the very best of international design or on student exchanges.

Activity Summary

Year 3

• Lectures - 50 students per group, 4 hours per week
• Seminars - 6-12 students per group, 1.5 hours per week
• Tutorial - 6-12 students per group, 0.5 hours per week
• Supervised time in studio / workshop - 1-50 students per group, 30 hours per week
• Independent Study - 30 hours per week
• Field Work - 50 students per group, 0.5 hours per week
• External Visits - 50 students per group, 2 hours per year

How long is an Architecture course?

An Architecture course can be successfully completed in 6 years, in which the opportunity to receive the necessary skills are obtained.

Independent Study

As you progress throughout the course, the level of independent learning increases significantly within specialist areas of the course. You are expected to have the confidence to apply your knowledge to more complex contexts and work on your initiative, taking greater charge of the direction of your studies and areas of interest.

Staff Delivering on This Course

We operate an open-door policy and enjoy strong relations between our students and staff. The course is taught by a team of full-time academic staff and practicing architects, including a number of highly distinguished designers and thinkers. Many are award-winning and have had their work published at an international level, and the course enables you to benefit directly from their guidance and expertise.

Individual designers also teach on the course and bring their own perspective and focus which serves to create a rich educational experience.

Assessment

Typically students are assessed each year:

Year 1

• 2 written exams, typically for 3 hours
• 3 written assignments, including essays
• 2 portfolio
• 3 journals

Year 2

• 4 written exams, typically for 3 hours
• 3 written assignments, including essays
• 1 report
• 2 portfolio

Year 3

• 2 written assignments, including essays
• 2 reports
• 2 portfolio
• 1 group critique

Year 4

• In Year 4, you will spend 12 months working in an architect’s office as an Architectural Assistant or Part 1 student.

Year 5

• 1 written exam, typically for 3 hours
• 2 reports
• 1 dissertation
• 2 portfolio

Year 6

• 1 written exam, typically for 3 hours
• 1 written assignment, including essay
• 1 report
• 2 portfolio
• 1 set exercise

Feedback

We aim to provide you with feedback within 20 working days of hand-in for all written exams, coursework and practical exams.

Academic Support

The Inclusion Centre advises and supports students who disclose a sensory or mobility impairment, chronic medical condition, mental health issue, dyslexia and other specific learning differences. Applicants are encouraged to arrange a pre-entry visit to discuss any concerns and to view the facilities.

Online Learning & Support

All undergraduate and postgraduate students, whether you are learning on campus or by online learning, benefit from using our collaborative virtual learning environment, CampusMoodle. You will be provided with 24/7 online access to your learning material and resources, along with the ability to interact with your class members and tutors for discussion and support.

Study Skills Support

The Study Support Team provides training and support to all students in:

• Academic writing
• Study skills (note taking, exam techniques, time management, presentation)
• Maths and statistics
• English language
• Information technology support

Library Support

The Library offers support for your course, including the books, eBooks, and journals you will need. We also offer online reading lists for many modules, workshops and drop-ins on searching skills and referencing, and much more.

Placements

In Year 4, you will spend up to 12 months working in an architect’s office as an Architectural Assistant or Part 1 student. This period of paid professional practice will give you the opportunity to gain valuable professional experience of architectural practice.

It is your responsibility to obtain a position, however your Professional Studies Advisor (PSA) will give guidance and support on the most appropriate office and on the preparation of your CV and Portfolio.

Previous students have worked in a variety of locations: locally, nationally or more widely around the world.

Study Abroad

You will have the opportunity to study at one of our partner institutions and enhance your architectural education. Exchange opportunities for Architecture include universities in Spain, Germany, Italy, France and Australia.

Job Prospects

This course will provide you with the professional and creative skills required for a successful career in architecture and allied professions. It also enables you to progress to the final professional examination (RIBA Part 3) following a period in practical training. Successful completion of this allows you to become a Registered Architect.

Is Architecture a good career choice?

You could enjoy a rich and varied career, where you’ll have the opportunity to interact with other Architects and Engineers. Although many Architects spend time in offices in order to meet clients and develop drawings, some Architects also work from home offices.

Exciting career opportunities exist in architectural practices across the world, in both the private and public sectors. Previous graduates have established their own architectural practices, while others hold senior positions in distinguished design firms and multidisciplinary organisations.

Watch A short film by RIBA about what an education and career in architecture will involve.

Standard Entry Requirements

• SQA Higher: BBBB to include English (or a written subject requiring the use of English), Maths or a science and preferably Art.
• GCE A Level: BCC to include Maths or a science and preferably Art. English (or a written subject requiring the use of English) is required at GCSE grade 6/B if not held at A Level.
• Irish Leaving Certificate Higher: H2H2H3H3 to include English (or a written subject requiring the use of English), Maths or a science and preferably Art.
• IB Diploma: 28 to include Higher Level English (or a written subject requiring the use of English), Maths or science and preferably Visual Arts all at grade 5.

Minimum Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirements for widening access applicants are:

• SQA Higher: BBC/BCCC to include English or a written subject requiring the use of English, Maths or a Science and preferably Art.

Advanced Entry

Applicants who are interested in applying for advanced entry will be considered on an individual basis.

Portfolio of Artwork

Applicants not possessing a Higher or equivalent qualification in Art (Art & Design and Product Design in Scotland and Art & Design and Design & Technology in England) will be expected to demonstrate evidence of creative ability. The purpose, nature and content of the portfolio is to demonstrate the applicants diverse creativity and can include analogue and electronic creativity (sketches, drawings, paintings, modelmaking, craft, photography, etc) we would normally expect this to be in the range of 12-15 items of work to represent the applicants creative self.

International Students 

International students who do not meet our direct entry requirements for this course can gain additional entry points through our International College at Robert Gordon University.

English Language Requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English should have an IELTS of 6.5 overall, with no component lower than 5.5, or an equivalent.

We accept a variety of in-country and secure English language tests, find out more:

Please note, some courses may require a higher standard of English than stated in this page. Contact admissions@rgu.ac.uk for further information.

Academic Year 2024/2025

SCOTTISH STUDENTS

• £1,820 per academic year
• TBC for a full placement year

EU STUDENTS

• £6,930 per academic year
• TBC for a full placement year

REST OF UK STUDENTS

• £6,930 per academic year
• TBC for a full placement year

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

• £17,720 per academic year
• TBC for a full placement year

Academic Year 2023/2024

SCOTTISH STUDENTS

• £1,820 per academic year
• £910 for a full placement year

EU STUDENTS

• £6,750 per academic year
• £3,375 for a full placement year

REST OF UK STUDENTS

• £6,750 per academic year
• £3,375 for a full placement year

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

• £17,040 per academic year
• £1,000 for a full placement year

Additional Costs

• £400 Laptop
• £50 Calculator
• £90 general start-up materials (Stage 1) – University Arts Materials Shop
• Plotting: £70 Year 1, £70 Year 2, £100 Year 3, £70 Year 5, £150 Year 6
• Materials: £100 Year 1, £60 Year 2, £100 Year 3, £60 Year 5, £150 Year 6
• Study Tour*: £200 Year 1 and £250 per year (Year 2,3,5 and 6) Some study tours are abroad, and there may be VISA costs for non-EU students.
• £100 per year for Site Visits - many sites are local to the school, so cost will be dependent on location