Course summary

MA Architecture and Urbanism invites you to shape the future of our cities and tackle the biggest challenges facing urban environments today. Combining in-depth research with studio-based design, the course addresses how cultural, economic, and environmental forces influence contemporary cities and places. You will produce written, drawn and modelled work rooted in historical urban theory and directed towards creating sustainable, future-focused cities. Designed for both aspiring researchers and industry professionals, the course supports diverse career goals and specialised interests. Shape your own direction through the exploration of specific research interests and studio design practice. Our urban laboratories provide space to investigate solutions to urban challenges through various lenses - for example landscape, contextualism, prototype, and housing. You will benefit from the specialist workshops at both Manchester Metropolitan University and the University of Manchester to explore model-making, fabrication, and realisation of your ideas. You will have opportunities to enhance your specialist knowledge and get career ready by connecting with Manchester School of Architecture’s network of industry leaders and alumni. This course will expose you to the global perspectives and experiences of experts in urbanism including planners, architects, historians, artists and environmental consultants. This course is ideal preparation for careers in professional or academic roles associated with sustainable urban and architectural design. Graduates go on to shape the built environment at every level in architectural practice, academic research, urban design, policy, consultancy, and construction. The programme is part of Manchester School of Architecture, an internationally recognised leader in architectural and urban design education which is jointly delivered and awarded by Manchester Metropolitan University and The University of Manchester. Additional information You will join a one-year programme that builds progressively in depth and complexity. In the first semester, you will develop a strong foundation in the principles of architecture and urbanism, gaining the skills and knowledge needed to critically investigate cities as both physical and cultural constructs. During the second semester, you will begin to establish your own position through a written research project and design-based inquiry. In the final semester, you will complete an independent Design Synthesis Project, conducting original research, gathering and interpreting data, and formulating an advanced architectural and urban design proposition that culminates in the presentation and contextualisation of your thesis. Throughout the programme, you will be supported by academic staff who are experts in architecture and urbanism, ensuring your work is informed by the latest debates in cities making as well as the realities of architectural application. MA Architecture and Urbanism is a joint award certified by The University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University. It is not professionally accredited. Graduates of the programme receive a degree certificate that includes each institution's crest and title. You will also benefit from the combined resources of The University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University, with access to specialist workshops, digital facilities, libraries, and wider student support services. The course places a strong emphasis on real-world urban engagement. You will work alongside industry professionals, participate in live architectural and urban design projects, and investigate subject themes in situ through urban living laboratories. Studio learning encourages both individual expertise in architecture and urbanism and collaborative exchange, creating a diverse and interconnected community of students united by shared interests in the future of cities.