Research Architecture at Goldsmiths, University of London - UCAS

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Course summary

The MA Research Architecture is for graduates from a range of disciplines who want to examine how architecture can engage with questions of contemporary culture, politics, media, ecology and justice and question whether spatial practice can become a form of research. Why study MA Research Architecture at Goldsmiths

  • You’ll join a group of students and practitioners from a wide range of backgrounds, experiences, and disciplines and have the opportunity to work collaboratively and benefit from peer-to-peer learning under the guidance of a tutor.
  • You’ll combine studio work with theoretical research in either the Research Architecture (RA) or Forensic Architecture (FA) studio stream of the MA.
  • Lectures, seminars, and workshops will equip you with grounding in critical spatial practices and related areas of inquiry.
  • The theoretical module provides thorough coverage of the historical, philosophical and technological aspects of the intersection of space, power, and conflict in light of changing geopolitical conditions.
  • There are several workshops on the programme. These day-long participatory events are led by invited guest speakers with specific expertise in the field.
  • In general, Research Architecture students develop their own approach and conceptual frameworks, whereas Forensic Architecture students tend to work more directly with the methods developed by the Agency. If you are interested in investigating a condition than the RA studio might be more appropriate, whereas if you wish to research a specific incident or singular event than the FA studio is a good choice.
  • Decisions as to which studio stream you will follow take place in week 5.
  • For those who choose the Forensic Architecture studio you will be able to work with the Forensic Architecture team through a placement.
  • Graduates of the MA will be well-suited for doctoral research or able to pursue a career in the areas of architecture, design, journalism, law, filmmaking, art and curating to name a few.

Modules

You'll take two taught modules (Special Subject, Forensic Architecture or Research Architecture Studio) an Oral Presentation and Dissertation Project as well as an unassessed compulsory Site Visit. In addition, there is the unassessed Guest Lecture and Screening programme offered by the Department of Visual Cultures. This takes place on Thursday evenings and the termly workshops focus on specific themes and problems in the field, and occur in the context of the Forensic Architecture or Research Architecture Studio. Teaching in particular technical skills (video, animation, sound, Geographic Information Science, 3-D modelling, mapping, photogrammetry, technical drawing, basic coding) are made available at an appropriate level as part of the informal provision of the Forensic Architecture or Research Architecture Studio. Compulsory modules You'll take the following compulsory modules: Conflicts and Negotiations as Spatial Practices 45 credits MA Research Architecture Dissertation 60 credits MA Symposium 15 credits Option modules You'll then choose one of the following optional modules: Research Architecture Studio 60 credits Forensic Architecture Studio 60 credits *Please note that due to staff research commitments not all of these modules may be available every year.

Assessment method

Visual Cultures assessment are 100% coursework. Normally this consists of essays, sometimes accompanied by creative projects, group projects, multi-media projects, presentations, symposia, reviews, and studio work.


Entry requirements

Places on the MA in Research Architecture are very competitive. They are not limited to graduates of architecture, but open to a range of other disciplines provided that you have, or expect to gain, an undergraduate degree of at least second class standard or equivalent. A good portfolio of practical and/or scholarly work, as well as experience in conducting research and a demonstrable interest in critical spatial practices, are essential. Your portfolio should be uploaded with your application. If English isn’t your first language, you will need an IELTS score (or equivalent English language qualification) of 6.5 with a 6.5 in writing and no element lower than 6.0 to study this programme.


Fees and funding

Tuition fees

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Additional fee information

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Research Architecture at Goldsmiths, University of London - UCAS