Master’s in Architecture in the UK - Top Universities, Fees & Jobs

Pave your way to becoming a renowned architect by securing a Master’s degree from the UK!

Architecture does not simply mean a physical structure; it instead speaks volumes about a culture. And those who are keen on contributing significantly to the built environment can pursue their studies in the field of Architecture. Masters in Architecture is a degree program that entails comprehensive teaching on design, construction, and management of architectural projects. It grooms students to design aesthetically as well as practically feasible buildings and structures.

If you aspire to design buildings and infrastructure, you may want to consider pursuing a Master's in Architecture from a reputable UK university . This postgraduate course provides comprehensive instruction on the details on planning, designing, and implementing of residential and commercial infrastructure. Interestingly the UK famed for intelligent cityscapes, increasing a high popularity and demand for architects, offering ample career opportunities and generous compensation.

Why Study Master’s in Architecture in the UK?

A professional degree in Architecture is much more than just learning how to design buildings. It’s about feeling a sense of accomplishment and cherishing what you have designed and executed. Why choose the UK for your Master ’s in the subject? There are several reasons, some of which are outlined below:

1. The UK allows its students a work permit for 2 years after course completion in the country

2. Master’s in Architecture in the UK is only a one-year program, unlike most MS courses in other countries

3. The UK architecture job market prides itself in having a 98% rate of employment for course graduates

4. The country offers a 100% scholarship to international students

5. M.Arch is a popular course in the UK and features in the Critical Occupation List in response to the growing demand for these professionals

6. Students pursuing the course can avail of part-time job opportunities for at least 20 weekdays and 40 holidays until they finish the course

Architecture Courses in the UK for International Students

The Master of Science in Architecture program is highly sought after by international students in the UK. This is largely due to the excellent campus placement opportunities provided by universities and colleges to their Architecture graduates. Typically, the course lasts for one year, but some institutions may extend it to two years, depending on the curriculum.

Students come from across the globe to study 1 year Master’s in Architecture in the UK. Most universities offer students three types of degree courses - MS, M.Arch, and MA. Some popular Master’s courses in the discipline include:

1. Architecture MA (Hons) taught at The University of Edinburgh

2. Structural Engineering with Architecture MEng (Hons) taught at Queen’s University Belfast

3. Architectural Engineering (with placement year) MEng (Hons) taught at Loughborough University

4. Architecture M.Arch (Hons) taught at Cardiff University

5. Architecture MSci (Hons) taught at UCL

Cost of Studying Master’s in Architecture in the UK for Indian Students

A majority of UK universities imparting M.Arch courses have reasonable fee structures for international students. That said, there is no parallel compromise on the quality of the education offered at these colleges, nor are the campus facilities below par.

The average Master’s in Architecture in the UK fees generally stands at GBP 25,225 (approx) for students from India. However, this cost may vary from one university to another. Besides, the cost of living in the country also gets added to the total fee structure of the course.

Eligibility Criteria and Admission Requirements to Study Master’s of Architecture in the UK

Every university in the UK has a different set of eligibility requirements that all international applicants must qualify for before applying for the course. Therefore, it is always advisable to check with the university regarding the specific admission criteria for the course you're applying for.

Listed below are the standard eligibility requirements that a majority of UK universities accept while taking in international students for M.Arch courses:

1. A Bachelor’s or UG degree, or an equivalent, in Architecture or a related field of study

2. Updated resume or work portfolio of the candidate sharing professional work experience in the related field (if applicable)

3. IELTS test scorecard of the applicant

4. GRE scores of the candidate

5. Statement of Purpose or SOP

6. Letters of Recommendation or LORs from an academic dignitary or past employer

In addition to satisfying the above criteria, Indian students must also fulfill all the visa requirements to study in the UK, which is listed below for your reference:

1. A Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies or CAS as proof of admission into a UK university for an Architecture course

2. Proof of funds to guarantee that you will be able to support all study-related and living costs during your stay duration in the UK

3. Originals of all marksheets and certificates obtained so far

4. Scorecard of the English language proficiency test IELTS

5. Complete application form for Student Visa to the UK

Top Universities / Colleges for Architecture Courses in the UK

The UK is the proud home to numerous colleges and universities offering a remarkable education quality in their M.Arch courses. Below are some of the top UK architecture colleges for Master's courses that you may find worth exploring. These universities feature among the top ranks, as suggested by QS World University Rankings.

Source: https://www.topuniversities.com/university-rankings/university-subject-rankings/2022/architecture-built-environment

Career Prospects After Pursuing a Master’s in Architecture in the UK

The UK proves to be a highly viable and lucrative job market for Architecture graduates. The country offers many options for students who complete their course from a recognised UK university. Some of the highly sought-after jobs in the UK for M.Arch graduates are listed below:

1. Project Architect

2. Interior Designer

3. Architectural Intern

4. Design Architect

5. 3D Artist

The pay packages these job roles offer to deserving candidates lie in the approximate range of GBP 22,000 - GBP 45,000 per annum. However, this is likely to vary from one job role to another and also in accordance with an increase in academic qualifications or experience proportionally.

FAQs

Is a 1 year Master’s degree from the UK valid in India?

UK universities offer 1-year Master’s programs as against the standard 2-year Master’s courses that Indian universities impart. As such, the Indian job market, particularly the public sector, does not currently validate a Master’s degree from the UK. However, fresh moves are being considered in this regard to make UK MS degrees more acceptable in the Indian market.

What is the required IELTS score to study Master’s in the UK?

Most UK universities accept a minimum IELTS test score of 6.0 or above from applicants for Master's courses. However, some of the top universities may even demand 6.5 or higher IELTS scores from candidates.

Can Indian students get jobs in the UK after completing Master’s in Architecture in the UK?

Yes! The UK job market is replete with career opportunities for Indian course graduates completing M.Arch from a recognised UK university. Some of the most popular job roles that may open up after course completion are:

1. Design Architect

2. 3D Artist

3. Architectural Design

4. Architectural Intern

5. Architect

6. Interior Designer

Can Indian students work part time in the UK while pursuing Master’s in Architecture?

The UK government authorises Indian students to work part-time on a student visa for 20 weekdays and 40 holidays during their study stay in the country.

What is the minimum-required GPA for Master’s in the UK?

The generally acceptable GPA score for pursuing Master’s courses in the UK is around 3.75 on a scale of 4.0. This is the equivalent of an 80% overall grade.

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