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. Features and Benefits

• As a MA Architecture and Urbanism student at Manchester School of Architecture, you will study a degree that is delivered jointly by The University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University. Graduates of the programme receive a degree certificate that includes each institution's crest and title. It is not professionally accredited. You will therefore benefit from the facilities and resources of both institutions such as libraries, computer suites, making and media workshops and much more.

• Manchester School of Architecture is placed 5th in the world in the QS 2025 Architecture rankings.

• You will benefit from the School's industry connections and employer network. Practitioner-tutors contribute to the studio curriculum and delivery which is supplemented by international visiting speakers, practice and building visits. This includes active collaboration with leading urban design and research consultancies, which could lead to opportunities to participate in live research and consultancy projects.

• Gain hands-on experience through site visits and in-situ analysis to understand urban conditions and spatial dynamics, using Manchester's complex urban landscape as a living laboratory.

• This is an internationally engaged course that actively disseminates students' thesis work through conferences, exhibitions, competitions and publications.