Architecture and Environmental Design BSc Honours

Program Overview

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Architecture and Environmental Design BSc Honours

Overview

Our Architecture and Environmental Design BSc encompasses the ‘artistic’ and the ‘scientific’ to create a new generation of architects who are not only architecturally competent and environmentally aware, but also able to explore the spatial poetics with an evidence-informed approach, selectively evaluate design options, and quantify the building performance and environmental benefits and impact of their designs.

Course Structure

The first year of this course focuses on the principles of environmental and architectural design, and the second year allows students to apply those skills in a wider context. In the final year, students will complete a year-long thesis project.

Year 1: Sensing the Environment

• A History of Architecture
• Design Project
• Environmental Design and Principles of Building Physics
• Introduction to Design Skills
• Introduction to Design Practice

Year 2: Transformation and Application

• Architectural History & Urbanism
• Climate, Energy and Architecture
• Design in Cities
• Designing in Extreme Climatic Conditions
• Material Studies and Environmental Design
• Zero-Plus Energy Buildings

Year 3: Stepping out and Making

• Architecture, Climate Change and the Planetary Emergency
• Environmental and Energy Performance
• Final Thesis Project
• Professional Practice
• Prototype Fabrication and Testing

Placement Year

This course gives you the opportunity to take a year in industry (work placement) after completing the second year of your study. This will help you gain work experience and increase your chances of employability after you graduate.

Professional Accreditation

The course is validated by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), providing exemption from RIBA Part 1. The validation came with a number of commendations.

Entry Requirements

UK

• A levels – BBB (120 UCAS Tariff points)
• T levels – 120 UCAS Tariff points
• International Baccalaureate – 120 UCAS Tariff points from all components of the Diploma Programme
• BTEC Extended Diploma – DDM in Art and Design
• BTEC Diploma – Not accepted on its own
• Access – 120 UCAS Tariff points from the Access course

In addition to one of the above, you should have:

• GCSE English Language grade 4/C - IB grade 4 Higher level, GCSE Maths grade 4/C - IB grade 4, GCSE Science grade 4/C

If your first language is not English, you will need an IELTS of 6.0 overall, with 5.5 in each component.

International

• International Baccalaureate – 120 UCAS Tariff points from all components of the Diploma Programme
• We accept a wide range of international high school level qualifications

In addition to the above, you should have:

• Personal Statement – You should outline your interest in the subject, your reasons for wanting to pursue a career in architecture, and give an overview of your current creative studies
• Portfolio of creative work – please see below for more details

Portfolio Guidance

• Number of recommended portfolio pieces: 15-20 pieces
• What should I include in my portfolio submission?
  • The portfolio is an opportunity to show your range of creative skills and projects
  • The selection should include both observational studies and creative work, and evidence developmental processes as well as final outcomes
• How should I structure my portfolio?
  • Please send Portfolios digitally, ideally in a single PDF format, maximum 10MB
• How will my portfolio be evaluated?
  • Your portfolio will be evaluated on the following criteria:
    • Personal Ambition and Interest in Architecture, Art and Design
    • Creativity and Originality
    • Spatial Exploration
    • Representation Skills

Fees and Funding

UK

• UK tuition fee: £9,535 (Price per academic year)
• Funding: As well as tuition fee loans, there is a range of funding available to help you fund your studies
• Scholarships: The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible undergraduate students

International

• International tuition fee: £17,000 (Price per academic year)
• EU Qualifications Welcome Award Scheme: If you are an international student accepted on an undergraduate programme starting in September 2024 or September 2025 at level 3 (Foundation) or level 4 (first year) on the basis of an eligible EU qualification only, you will be awarded a tuition fee reduction which will align your fee more closely to the one for UK students

Facilities

• Fabrication Laboratory
• Architecture studios
• Lecture rooms at Marylebone
• Marylebone library

Teaching and Assessment

• Teaching methods: lectures, seminars, workshops, problem-based and blended learning, and where appropriate practical application
• Assessment: Practical and Coursework assessments

Supporting You

• Study support: workshops, 1-2-1 support and online resources to help improve your academic and research skills
• Personal tutors: support you in fulfilling your academic and personal potential
• Student advice team: provide specialist advice on a range of issues including funding, benefits and visas
• Extra-curricular activities: volunteering opportunities, sports and fitness activities, student events and more

Course Location

• Marylebone Campus is home to the Westminster Business School and our Architecture, Planning and Tourism courses
• Specialist workshops, dedicated digital and architecture studios, and our extensive Marylebone Library offer students everything they need for academic success

Related Courses

• Interior Architecture BA Honours
• Architectural Technology BSc Honours
• Architecture BA Honours

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

The Architecture and Environmental Design BSc Honours program at the University of Westminster aims to produce a new generation of architects who are not only architecturally competent and environmentally aware but also capable of exploring spatial poetics with an evidence-informed approach. The program emphasizes the integration of artistic and scientific principles to create designs that are both aesthetically pleasing and environmentally sustainable. The program's objectives include:

• Developing students' creative space- and form-making, environmental design, technical, and analytical skills.
• Fostering critical thinking and awareness of the wider architectural context.
• Equipping students with the ability to selectively evaluate design options and quantify the building performance and environmental benefits and impact of their designs.
The program emphasizes a strong interdisciplinary approach, highlighting the added value that environmental architects bring to the building industry and society. It provides students with professional skills applicable to both architectural practice and environmental design consultancy.

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Outline:

The program is structured over three or four years, with the first year focusing on the principles of environmental and architectural design. Students learn the evidence-informed approach and quantification skills necessary to evaluate design proposals.

• Introduction to Design Practice: This module explores the practical aspects of architectural design, including site analysis, building regulations, and construction methods.
• Design Project: Students undertake a design project that allows them to apply the skills learned in the previous modules.
• A History of Architecture: This module provides a historical overview of architectural styles and movements, exploring their influence on contemporary design.
• Environmental Design and Principles of Building Physics: This module introduces students to the principles of environmental design, including energy efficiency, passive solar design, and sustainable materials.

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Year 2:

• Design in Cities: This module explores the design of buildings and spaces within urban contexts, considering factors such as density, transportation, and public space.
• Material Studies and Environmental Design: This module examines the properties and environmental impact of different building materials, exploring sustainable alternatives and innovative applications.
• Zero-Plus Energy Buildings: This module explores the design of buildings that generate more energy than they consume, utilizing renewable energy sources and energy-efficient technologies.
• Climate, Energy and Architecture: This module examines the relationship between climate change, energy consumption, and architectural design, exploring strategies for reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable building practices.

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Placement Year:

Students have the opportunity to take a year in industry after completing the second year of their studies. This placement year provides valuable work experience and enhances employability upon graduation. Students utilize advanced building performance prediction and testing tools to prepare for professional practice.

• Final Thesis Project: Students undertake a year-long thesis project that culminates in a comprehensive design proposal.
• Prototype Fabrication and Testing: This module provides students with hands-on experience in fabricating and testing architectural prototypes, developing their technical skills and understanding of construction processes.
• Professional Practice: This module explores the professional aspects of architecture, including ethics, legal issues, and business practices.
• Environmental and Energy Performance: This module delves deeper into the environmental and energy performance of buildings, examining advanced techniques for assessing and optimizing sustainability.

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Assessment:

The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods, including:

• Coursework: Essays, reports, in-class tests, portfolios, and dissertations.
• Practical: Presentations, videos, podcasts, lab work, and creating artifacts.

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Teaching:

The program employs a range of teaching methods, including:

• Lectures: Provide students with theoretical knowledge and foundational concepts.
• Seminars: Facilitate interactive discussions and critical analysis of architectural and environmental design topics.
• Workshops: Offer hands-on experience in design, fabrication, and technical skills.
• Problem-based and blended learning: Encourage students to apply their knowledge to real-world challenges and integrate online learning resources.
• Practical application: Emphasize the practical application of theoretical concepts through studio-based design activities and site visits.
The program is taught by a dedicated team of experienced architectural practitioners, world-renowned scholars, and engineers.

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Careers:

Graduates of the Architecture and Environmental Design BSc Honours program are well-prepared for a wide range of careers in the architectural and environmental design fields. They can pursue roles such as:

• Fully qualified architect with environmental design expertise (RIBA): Graduates can become fully qualified architects after completing RIBA Part 2 studies and Part 3 training.
• Environmental design consultant: Graduates can specialize in environmental design consultancy, providing expertise on sustainable building practices, energy efficiency, and climate-responsive design.
• Combined career as an architect (RIBA) and environmental design consultant: Graduates can combine their architectural skills with their environmental design expertise to offer comprehensive design solutions that prioritize sustainability.
The program's strong industry links provide students with opportunities for internships and hands-on experience, enhancing their employability and career prospects.

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Other:

• The program is prescribed by the Architects Registration Board (ARB) and validated by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), providing exemption from RIBA Part 1.
• The program emphasizes the importance of climate action and rethinks the role and methods of design practice within the context of the climate emergency.
• The program's facilities include a fabrication laboratory, open-plan studios, and an extensive library.
• The program offers a stimulating learning environment that fosters professional creativity and entrepreneurial spirit.
• The program is located in central London, providing students with access to the city's rich architectural heritage.
• The program has a high student satisfaction rate, with 92% of students satisfied with the course.

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UK Tuition Fee:

£9,250 (Price per academic year)

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International Tuition Fee:

£15,400 (Price per academic year)