MSc Computational Methods in Architecture

This course addresses the need for creative professionals who are equipped with the IT skills, digital fabrication skills, simulation software skills, or the ability to design custom-software development tools to solve unique design problems. Our multidisciplinary approach will provide students with the knowledge and skills to discover innovative computational methods for use in the creative and design industries. In particular, we will look at form-finding using parametric and generative methods, preparing digital information for further rigorous analysis, and integrating the logic of digital fabrication into the early stages of design. You will be taught by experts across the subjects of architecture, computer science and engineering, which will give you a distinctly interdisciplinary approach to looking at design. The ethos of the course is based on the concept of rigorous creativity where algorithmic thinking, systematic parametric design, analytic methods, creative intuition and tectonic sensibilities are integrated into a more innovative design outcome than traditional methods currently allow.

Career prospects - Whilst many of our graduates may choose to undertake a career within architecture or other built environment professions (e.g. engineering and construction, landscape, interior design), the programme provides a large number of transferable skills which will be of benefit across a wide range of professions. The knowledge and skills gained in computational methods such as 3D modelling, rendering, animation, parametric design, digital fabrication, and building information modelling (BIM) are highly desired by employers from various industries who are seeking experts with IT skills. Examples include: furniture designers, jewellery design firms, graphic design firms, computer game development firms, and even movie and theatre set design firms. These companies regularly need IT skills, digital fabrication skills, simulation software skills, or custom-software development tools to solve unique design problems. The focus on independent, project based learning as well as the ability to solve complex problems individually and in groups is often welcomed by employers in that it provides graduates with skills in creative thinking, conceptual organisation, critical reflection and taking initiative.

Typically, you will need to have either:

a 2:1 honours degree in architecture, computer science, engineering, interior design, landscape architecture, or urban design
a university-recognised equivalent academic qualification
or relevant professional experience evidenced by a reference.
English Language requirements
IELTS with an overall score of 6.5 with 5.5 in all subskills, or an accepted equivalent.

Other essential requirements
You will also need to provide:

an academic or professional portfolio of your work to evidence your understanding of the field of computational methods in architecture and some initial experience in the use of digital tools. Portfolios should be a maximum of eight (8) pages and provide evidence of imaginative, conceptual, and systematic thinking, technical resolution, and clear communication of information and ideas.
a personal statement which includes your reasons for studying this programme and any experience with issues related to digital design and computational methods in architecture within your previous studies or professional career.
TOEFL (iBT) - At least 90 overall with minimum scores of 17 for writing, 17 for listening, 18 for reading, and 20 for speaking
International Baccalaureate Language A- HL 4 or SL 5