Course summary
Building design plays an important role in improving quality of life and human well-being, whilst also helping with climate change mitigation and adaptation. M.Arch Sustainable Architecture offers architects an ARB-prescribed Part 2 qualification, drawing on CAT’s 50 years of experience in sustainability practice. The intensive course allows graduates to respond more quickly to the urgent need for a greater understanding of sustainability issues in the built environment. Course structure This Masters degree starts in September and is available full-time for 22 months or part-time over three years. The course structure has been designed to accommodate students who wish to maintain a limited amount of employment or other commitments. Full-time students spend an average of 35 hours per week on their studies, attending CAT for one teaching week roughly every month. Key areas of study An architecture Masters with sustainability at its core, the course focuses on how sustainability can be thought about in the design process, in order to create buildings that are functional and sustainable as well as aesthetically pleasing. This highly practical course allows you to combine design-based academic study with hands-on learning, expanding your critical awareness of current architectural and environmental problems to develop new insights. You will be studying at the forefront of sustainable architecture, drawing on the skills and knowledge of in-house experts and external designers, including leading sustainable architects such as Professor Pat Borer, Patrick Hannay and Chris Loyn. You will also have the chance to get involved in community projects, allowing you to develop real-world, practical experience. Module Descriptions Integrated Design Project 1 Architectural Analysis Through Writing Professional Studies Integrated Design Project 2 Build Project MArch Research Paper Final Design Project Technical Report for Final Design Project
Modules
The MArch: Sustainable Architecture programme offers a unique blend of design and academic study together with practical experience. Students are equipped with the knowledge and vocational skills that are becoming increasingly important in the architectural profession. The following modules are delivered via a lively mixture of practical workshops, studio-based design work, site visits, seminars and lectures:
- Integrated Design Project 1
- Integrated Design Project 2
- Design & Build Project
- Final Design Project
- Technical Report for Final Design Project
- Architectural Analysis Through Writing
- MArch Research Paper
Assessment method
Students are continuously assessed via essays, reports, presentations and project design work. The M.Arch: Sustainable Architecture is accredited by the Architects Registration Board (ARB). The M.Arch: Sustainable Architecture offers a masters level Part II architecture course and will be subject to periodic reviews, for the purposes of entry onto the United Kingdom Register of Architects. Prescription is normally granted on a four-yearly basis subject to ARB being satisfied that standard requirements have been met. There is a final exhibition of students’ designs exhibited in the prestigious WISE building and assessed by external examiners.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate degree carrying an exemption from ARB Part I or a relevant undergraduate degree. If you have a relevant undergraduate degree that does not carry an exemption from ARB’s Part 1 examination you will be required to successfully complete the ARB’s Part 1 examination before you can register as an architect in the UK. Digital portfolio of work. IELTS 6.5 (or equivalent) is required for applicants whose first language is not English. This course is highly practical and requires attendance in person at CAT. If you live outside of the UK or EEA and require a student visa you cannot study this course as we do not hold the required Tier 4 licence. You may instead wish to look at our MSc Green Building, which is available via distance learning.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| England | £14500 | Whole course |
| Northern Ireland | £14500 | Whole course |
| Scotland | £14500 | Whole course |
| Wales | £14500 | Whole course |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
CAT does not have a Student Study license (previously known as the Tier 4 licence) therefore we cannot accept students to study on the course from the EU or Overseas without settled status, as attendance on-site is required and we cannot sponsor students to study on-site.
You will also need to pay a £50 non-refundable deposit upon enrolment.
Provider information
Centre for Alternative Technology
Machynlleth
SY20 9AZ