Master of Architecture

Our two-year Master of Architecture will enhance your appreciation of architecture as a design-led discipline, provide enlightenment on the latest technological advances and application of innovative solutions to global challenges in the built environment.

Our Master of Architecture (MArch) Part 2 is a two-year programme centred on the concept and applications of sustainable design. It addresses the current and future challenges of the built environment, particularly within the urban fabric, and will enhance your appreciation of architecture as a design-led discipline. Taught within state-of-the-art facilities for designing at our beautiful Edinburgh campus, you’ll benefit from collaboration with other design-led disciplines at Heriot-Watt, be enlightened on the latest technological advances, and develop appropriate innovative solutions to a range of architectural global challenges. The programme attracts individuals possessing the Architect Registration Board (ARB) part 1 and/or Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Part 1 but it is not necessary to have this to apply. As a graduate, you’ll be suitably prepared to work professionally in the dynamic built environment industry.

Customise your learning

During this two-year programme, you’ll take 240 credits.

You’ll take two architectural projects in the first year. Design Project 1 is a 30-credit studio-based course which will expose you to a complex and mid-sized architectural enquiry. You’ll build on learned skills in Design Project 2, another 30-credit course. These design projects will support your learning through assessing the developing praxis of architectural design, underpinned by research and theory, as an authentic response to a multifaceted urban enquiry.

During the first year, you’ll also take four 15-credit courses in Sustainable and Intelligent Buildings, Research Methods, Urban Design Theory, and Urban Design for Health and Wellbeing. The latter two programmes are part of a joint academic collaboration between Heriot-Watt University and the University of Edinburgh.

During the second year, you’ll refine your architectural knowledge, critical thinking, and ability to deliver highly sophisticated and professionally communicated design solutions through taking Design Thesis 1 (30 credits) and Design Thesis 2 (60 credits). To complete the second year, you’ll demonstrate and apply your scholarship and inquiry skills to a self-identified area of interest in the wider architectural cultural context through the 30-credit Research Investigation course.

All courses are mandatory.

Industry
We work closely with industry to ensure our course content is up-to-date and reflects the current and emerging needs of industry and employers. Guest speakers from industry are regularly invited offering networking opportunities. You’ll gain the right blend of knowledge, practical skills, and soft skills to set you up for life after graduation.