Architecture - University Coll

The BSc (Architectural Science) at UCD is a three-year undergraduate program accredited by the RIAI and RIBA, leading to the Master of Architecture degree after an additional two years. It combines project work in architectural design, drawing, and model making with lecture programs in architectural history, theory, and technical subjects. Graduates are equipped for careers in architectural practice, planning, heritage site management, and related fields. The program offers international study opportunities and emphasizes critical thinking and design skills.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The BSc (Architectural Science) is a three-year undergraduate program leading to the Master of Architecture degree after an additional two years of study. It is primarily geared towards the architectural profession and is accredited by the Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland (RIAI) and the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). The program aims to produce highly competent, creative professionals capable of addressing global societal issues. It attracts a diverse range of students, from technically minded to artistically gifted, socially conscious to natural communicators and leaders. The program emphasizes two main elements: project work (architectural design, drawing, and model making) and lecture programs (historical and theoretical material). Project work is taught in architecture design studios through lectures, individual tuition, field trips, group tutorials, large reviews, and exhibitions. Lecture-based modules are categorized under Technical (Architectural Technologies, Structures, Environmental Science) and Cultural (Architectural History and Theory, Ecology, Conservation). The BSc (Architectural Science) equips graduates with a breadth of knowledge and a range of skills applicable in various contexts, serving as an entry route to the MArch program. It also provides an avenue into careers in associated professions like landscape architecture, planning, or research. The program aims to develop competent, responsible, and confident architects who are lifelong learners.

Outline:

Stage 2 Core Modules:

ARCT20020 The Indoor Environment (Autumn, 5 Credits)
ARCT20040 History & Theory of the Designed Environment III - Survey Course 2 (Autumn, 5 Credits)
ARCT20050 Architectural Design III (Autumn, 15 Credits)
ARCT20130 Imagining Architecture (Autumn, 5 Credits)
ARCT20010 Architectural Design IV (Spring, 15 Credits)
ARCT20100 Architectural Technologies II – Building Frames and Skins (Spring, 5 Credits)
ARCT20170 Intro to Computational Design (Spring, 5 Credits)
ARCT20570 Enhancing Digital Drawing Skills (Spring, 5 Credits)

Stage 3 Core Modules:

ARCT30010 Architectural Design V (Autumn, 15 Credits)
ARCT30030 History & Theory of the Designed Environment IV - Architecture, Urban and Landscape (Autumn, 5 Credits)
ARCT30090 Building Renovation and Energy Retrofit / Architectural Technologies III (Autumn, 5 Credits)
ARCT30130 Framework for Practice (Autumn, 5 Credits)
ARCT30040 Architectural Design VI (Spring, 15 Credits)
ARCT30100 Architectural Technologies IV – Integrated Building Process (Spring, 5 Credits)
ARCT20170 Intro to Computational Design (Spring, 5 Credits)
Module Weighting Info:
BHARCH001 Stage 3 - 100.00%
Standard Honours Award:
First Class Honours:
Second Class Honours, Grade 1:
Second Class Honours, Grade 2:
Pass:

Teaching:

Teaching Methods: The program utilizes a combination of lectures, individual tuition, field trips, group tutorials, large reviews, and exhibitions.
Faculty: The program is taught by faculty within the UCD School of Architecture.
Unique Approaches: The program emphasizes a blend of theoretical and practical learning, with a focus on developing students' design skills and critical thinking abilities.

Careers:

Potential Career Paths:
Architectural practice
Further academic study in architecture or related subjects
Planning
Heritage site management
Landscape
Cultural and artistic practice
Curatorial work
Opportunities: The program prepares graduates for a wide range of career opportunities in the architectural field and related disciplines.
Outcomes: Graduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in a variety of professional roles.

Other:

International Study Opportunities:
Field trips, site visits, and workshops are organized throughout the program.
An organized class study trip to a European city of architectural interest is included in Stage 2.
A period of study at a university abroad on exchange is encouraged, typically during the first year of the Master of Architecture Degree Programme.
Erasmus Exchange and other Non-EU Exchange opportunities exist.
Equipment: Students must purchase drawing equipment (approximately EUR300) and may expect to purchase a personal computer during their program of study.
UCD Architecture: UCD Architecture is at the forefront of the architectural and urban design debate, both in Ireland and internationally.
Web: www.ucd.ie/engarch.