Sustainable Architecture at Centre for Alternative Technology - UCAS

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Course summary

Masters in Sustainable Architecture An ARB Part II Masters in Architecture taught at the Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT), the pioneer of sustainability practice. Intended specifically for students pursuing a career in Architecture, this course offers a unique combination of design-based academic study and practical hands-on learning. CAT’s 40 years of sustainable education experience has led to the development of courses that not only tackle environmental issues but focus on sustainability at the core of every aspect of learning. Teaching is delivered in the WISE building - itself an example of recent developments in sustainable construction - and includes a mix of studio-based design work, lectures, seminars and practicals. Students are introduced to a range of skills that are increasingly in demand within the building industry. The focus is on designing buildings in their context, to allow for adaptation to the effects of climate change and to create healthy environments for all. We also offer a part time, 3 year route to study MArch allowing for greater flexibility. The M.Arch: Sustainable Architecture is aimed at the architecture student who understands that the world is in a time of transition and that building design plays an important role in environmental impact. Therefore there is great potential within the profession for environmental change and this is pivotal to the entire sustainability debate. What qualification will you receive? Successful completion of the programme at the Centre for Alternative Technology leads to the award of Masters of Architecture (M.Arch) by the University of East London. This course is created and delivered by CAT and validated by UEL. The course was recently revalidated so the course in the process of being prescribed by the ARB. Why study at CAT? Studying at the Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT) is a truly unique experience. For the past 40 years CAT has been at the forefront of the environmental movement, pioneering low-carbon living and renewable technology. At the Graduate School of the Environment (GSE), students benefit from our extensive practical and academic knowledge, graduating with the skills needed to become leading players in the sustainability sector. Find out more about our facilities here. Practical building and knowledge sharing At CAT, hands-on learning takes place side by side with academic study. Residential on-site block learning weeks are taught at the Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT), a truly unique and inspiring learning environment. Alongside their design and academic work, students of the Master in Architecture also participate in a variety of building projects. This allows them to get practical experience and understanding of the complexities of what happens once their designs leave the architectural studio. During these projects and other teaching activities architecture students may work and meet alongside MSc students who will go into complimentary building professions allowing for networking and a wealth of transferable knowledge. Collaboration with external designers, architects and community projects also add valuable practical experience to the students' resumes. Immersive learning environment Residential module weeks include lectures, seminars, group work and practicals. These module weeks provide a truly immersive environment to escape daily life and apply yourself to new learning. Many eminent experts give guest lectures or hold seminars during these modules, as it is a course that seeks to draw on the expertise and learning of the whole environmental sector. Creating high standards of Sustainable Architecture We pride ourselves on the high standard of work that our graduates continue to produce. To see for yourself, have a look at some of the projects our students produce. Is this the course for you? Interested in studying this course? Join us for our next open day or contact us.

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
- Professional Studies

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

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.
Sustainable Architecture at Centre for Alternative Technology - UCAS