Art & Design

Professional Practice and Management in Architecture

Our Postgraduate Certificate Professional Practice and Management in Architecture is the last stage in formal academic training and practical, work-based learning for architects. It’s designed and structured to lay the foundation for ‘life-long learning’ in the architectural profession, and its primary purpose is to enable you to show competence in practice.

It stands out for its reflection of current thinking of the RIBA and the ARB, the objectives of the EU Architects’ Directive, and the RIBA Core Curriculum requirements of Continuous Professional Development (CPD). CPD is available through short-course options, and further supports our excellent links with local architectural practices.

Direct industry and research input

This course is based in UWE Bristol’s Faculty of Environment and Technology, and like other Architecture courses here, it’s unique in offering a multidisciplinary environment that’s geared towards the construction professions as a whole. The course team comprises qualified architects and a solicitor with a specialism in construction law, while the course content has contributions from lecturers across the department and industry specialists. This ensures the course is based on current and projected trends.

Architecture at UWE has a strong inter-disciplinary ethos and an excellent reputation in the industry. This course gives you access to the knowledge and Part-3 skills that relate directly to architectural practice, professionalism, and managing architecture’s relationship with wider construction industry and society. These correspond to the requirements set out in the criteria published by the ARB/RIBA.

It also nurtures and develops the visual, written and oral communication skills vital to successful practice.

Architecture, Design and the Built Environment Masters in Research (MRes)

Urbanisation, advances in technology and the drive towards sustainable living are all changing our world and transforming businesses. Architecture, design and the built environment disciplines need adaptable, multi-skilled and influential leaders to deliver a coherent and sustainable response to the challenges ahead. This MRes course gives students the opportunity to develop advanced research skills and apply them to an extended research project with either a technical, management or strategic focus.

Depending on your chosen subject area, you will graduate with one of the following qualifications:

MRes Architecture
MRes Construction
MRes Real Estate
MRes Product Design
The course is suitable for students who have enjoyed the research components of their undergraduate degree and wish to prepare for a research-based career. It also offers excellent preparation for Doctoral study. Likewise, it is appropriate for people who are already working and who wish to either develop their research skills or undertake a research project to enhance their continued professional development.

Real world research skills

This Masters degree will equip you with the skills necessary to undertake sustained, independent and innovative research. You will gain the confidence to work in creative and flexible and ways, and develop the ability to plan, produce and present rigorous, independent and theoretically informed studies. It also fosters the development of essential professional skills to enhance your employability, such as self-management, team work, problem solving and communication.

The taught components of the course provide a balance between training in interdisciplinary research methods and subject specific research under the supervision of UWE Bristol’s active research specialists.

For the final extended research project, you can choose to engage with ongoing research from one of UWE Bristol’s specialist research groups or to embark on a new project relating to or inspired by your particular interests. In either case, this may relate to your current or future employment.

Flexible learning options

This Masters is available as a full-time or part-time course with a high degree of flexibility. The taught modules are delivered on one day a week, making it suitable for day release study.

Architecture MArch

UWE Bristol has an excellent reputation for its architecture courses, and the calibre of its graduates. We have been ranked sixth nationally for student satisfaction for our Architecture courses in The Guardian University League Tables 2020.

If you have Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) or Architects Registration Board (ARB) Part I accreditation, this course is an excellent opportunity to achieve your Master of Architecture, plus RIBA and ARB Part II accreditation. Part III accreditation is also achievable here.

Hone in on your career aspirations

You can specialise in one of three or more areas, such as Social Architecture, Conservation or Urbanism, in your second year, to help differentiate your skills and develop a unique portfolio.

You will have attentive support from an excellent department with extensive research expertise and complementary knowledge, and learn from industry-experienced tutors and practising professionals.

Learning incorporates working on live briefs from genuine clients, and studying cities and buildings on national and international field trips. It will encourage and develop your design skills, and introduce you to working directly with clients and end users, and running an architecture practice.

This course also offers further real-world experience with excellent connections to industry and local communities and puts on a high-profile end-of-year show in Bristol, attended by local, regional and national practices.

Interior Architecture BA(Hons)

Why study interior architecture?

Most of the buildings we will inhabit in 2050 have already been built.

You could create hospitals where people get better faster, schools where people learn better, or give buildings entirely new uses.

The focus is on creating delightful and powerful places for people and society.

Why UWE Bristol?

BA(Hons) Interior Architecture considers all aspects of interior architecture, from psychology and social conditions to structure, furniture design and materials, sound and light. We produce sought-after graduates with specialist knowledge and the skill to create exciting buildings.

Rethink existing buildings and convert them to suit a range of uses. Apply these skills to temporary structures and installations including theatres and exhibitions.

Discover how to think laterally, make connections and take inspiration from art, film, science, sociology. Transform places, spaces and even ideas.

Learn from industry-experienced tutors and work on a series of live briefs for property developers, management consultants, community charities and cultural institution. Our students have completed work for the Arnolfini centre for contemporary art and Ernst & Young, and made proposals for the redevelopment of a former television studio.

Collaborate with students across a range of disciplines and build your professional portfolio with practical design projects.

Explore Bristol’s rich architectural history on day trips, and broaden your horizons with residential field trips, work placements and study overseas.

Where can it take me?

We produce sought-after students with specialist knowledge and the skill to create exciting interior spaces. As a graduate you could go on to play a key role adapting buildings for new uses and occupants.

You could decide on a career in interior architecture or diversify into related design fields like film and TV. You might design products, furniture or theatre sets, or work on the conservation or refurbishment of historic buildings.

Architecture and Planning BA(Hons)

Why study architecture and planning?

Applying architectural design to city planning creates more humane and sustainable environments.

A new kind of designer is emerging one who understands planning and architecture, while responding to people, context and sustainability needs.

There is a high demand for highly creative architect-planners who are able to design from the scale of a door-handle to a city.

Why UWE Bristol?

This degree is unique because it’s accredited by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI), and the Architects Registration Board (ARB).

This is one of five courses that cover different specialisms in architecture. We produce sought-after graduates with specialist knowledge and the skill to create exciting buildings.

The degree will build your creativity and develop your talent for finding solutions to a full range of realistic briefs. It will show you how to integrate technology seamlessly into design ideas and give you the confidence and skills to work in top architecture and planning practices.

Gain broad-based knowledge and skills in architecture and planning. Work on conceptual and practical projects across different themes.

Learn computer-assisted design (CAD), drawing, modelling and mapping. Assess urban design on day trips and residential field trips.

Study in Europe for a year on our established Erasmus programme and gain valuable real-world experience that increases your employability.

Apply your learning on a year-long project combining the masterplanning of a complex urban area with rigorous brief development and research, all leading to a final architectural design project.

Work on a six-week agency project in an architect’s office, local planning authority, or other appropriate organisation. Collaborate with students across related disciplines in an approach reflecting industry.

Where can it take me?

With a joint professional qualification, you’ll be sought after by employers in the UK and abroad.

As a graduate, you’ll be ready for a career as an architect, architect-planner, urban designer, conservationist or town planner with a background in design.

Architecture BSc(Hons)

Why study architecture?

Architecture is constantly evolving, and an architect’s role is to respond and adapt to change.

There is always a need for professionals who can provide well-considered and creative solutions to a range of problems within the building industry.

Whether you’ll focus on sustainability, artistic concepts, detail design or simple ideas, a solid understanding of materials, methods and technology will allow you to find and provide effective solutions.

Why UWE Bristol?

BSc(Hons) Architecture teaches you the theoretical, historical, environmental, technological and professional factors influencing architecture.

This is one of five courses that cover different specialisms in architecture. We produce sought-after graduates with specialist knowledge and the skill to create exciting buildings.

Be taught by industry-experienced lecturers and visiting tutors, many of whom run their own architectural practices.

Investigate the design, refurbishment, use and re-use of existing and new build structures with an emphasis on building technology. Produce creative solutions from artistic concepts through to detail design.

Develop your design skills and explore computer-aided design (CAD), drawing, modelling, and mapping as well as structural and environmental strategies to support activity. Create an impressive portfolio of design projects, many with real clients and sites.

Assess and review architecture on day trips and residential field trips in the UK and abroad. Gain real-world experience on internships and graduate ready for the next step in your professional studies.

Use your theoretical and hands-on skills to explore, develop and finely craft architectural design solutions.

Where can it take me?

You’ll be expected to work for an architectural practice for a year before joining a Part 2 course. Our Part 2 course, the MArch, ranks among the top 20 in the UK.

When you graduate, your strong analytical and problem-solving skills will make you desirable to employers and you’ll be prepared for a wide range of careers.

Architectural Technology and Design BSc(Hons)

Why study architectural technology and design?

The evolution of architectural forms is influenced by culture and fashion, society and economics, climate and geography, security and self-preservation.

For architecture to be able to respond to these factors, we need to apply technology.

In the past, technological limitations imposed restrictions on architecture. These days, technology is almost limitless and architectural expression can develop in exciting ways.

Why UWE Bristol?

BSc(Hons) Architectural Technology and Design is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) and the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB).

This is one of five courses that cover different specialisms in architecture. We produce sought-after graduates with specialist knowledge and the skill to create exciting buildings.

This course equips you to become a chartered Architectural Technologist, working at the heart of the contemporary construction industry.

Gain a solid understanding of technological progression in construction, and where it sits within the history of architecture.

Study and apply design concepts and construction technologies to a range of building problems. Sketch and assess buildings that inspire and inform your work on day and residential field trips.

Learn from industry-experienced tutors and work on a series of live briefs for real clients in our well-equipped studios. Collaborate with students across a range of disciplines and build your professional portfolio with practical design projects.

Take a year out to work in a professional practice and gain valuable real-world experience that improves your employability.

Our students become designers who can skilfully communicate ideas and contract managers who can control the procurement process.

Where can it take you?

There’s a wide range of career opportunities for technologists with design skills.

You could go on to work in architectural and engineering practices in the public or private sectors, or for contractors and developers, project managers and systems manufacturers.

Interior Architecture (with Foundation Year) BA(Hons)

Why study interior architecture?

Most of the buildings we will inhabit in 2050 have already been built.

You could create hospitals where people get better faster, schools where people learn better, or give buildings entirely new uses.

The focus is on creating delightful and powerful places for people and society.

Why UWE Bristol?

Rethink existing buildings and convert them to suit a range of uses. Apply these skills to temporary structures and installations including theatres and exhibitions.

Discover how to think laterally, make connections and take inspiration from art, film, science, sociology. Transform places, spaces and even ideas.

Collaborate with students across a range of disciplines and build your professional portfolio with practical design projects.

Explore Bristol’s rich architectural history on day trips, and broaden your horizons with residential field trips, work placements and study overseas.

Where can it take me?

Architecture and Planning (with Foundation Year) BA(Hons)

Why study architecture and planning?

Applying architectural design to city planning creates more humane and sustainable environments.

A new kind of designer is emerging one who understands planning and architecture, while responding to people, context and sustainability needs.

There is a high demand for highly creative architect-planners who are able to design from the scale of a door-handle to a city.

Why UWE Bristol?

BA(Hons) Architecture and Planning is unique because it’s accredited by both the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI).

This is one of five courses that cover different specialisms in architecture. We produce sought-after graduates with specialist knowledge and the skill to create exciting buildings.

Gain broad-based knowledge and skills in architecture and planning. Work on conceptual and practical projects across different themes.

Learn computer-assisted design (CAD), drawing, modelling and mapping. Assess urban design on day trips and residential field trips.

Study in Europe for a year on our established Erasmus programme and gain valuable real-world experience that increases your employability.

Apply your learning on a year-long project combining the masterplanning of a complex urban area with rigorous brief development and research, all leading to a final architectural design project.

Where can it take me?

With a joint professional qualification, you’ll be sought after by employers in the UK and abroad.

Architecture (with Foundation Year) BSc(Hons)

Why study architecture?

Architecture is constantly evolving, and an architect’s role is to respond and adapt to change.

There is always a need for professionals who can provide well-considered and creative solutions to a range of problems within the building industry.

Why UWE Bristol?

BSc(Hons) Architecture teaches you the theoretical, historical, environmental, technological and professional factors influencing architecture.

This is one of five courses that cover different specialisms in architecture. We produce sought-after graduates with specialist knowledge and the skill to create exciting buildings.

Learn from industry-experienced lecturers and visiting tutors, many of whom run their own architectural practices.

Use your theoretical and hands-on skills to explore, develop and finely craft architectural design solutions.

Where can it take me?

You’ll be expected to work for an architectural practice for a year before joining a Part 2 course.

Our Part 2 course, the MArch, ranks among the top 20 in the UK.

When you graduate, your strong analytical and problem-solving skills will make you desirable to employers and you’ll be prepared for a wide range of careers.

Take a look at our online yearbook of student projects from our architecture and product design courses.

Architectural Technology and Design (with Foundation Year) BSc(Hons)

Why study architectural technology and design?

The evolution of architectural forms is influenced by culture and fashion, society and economics, climate and geography, security and self-preservation.

For architecture to be able to respond to these factors, we need to apply technology.

In the past, technological limitations imposed restrictions on architecture. These days, technology is almost limitless and architectural expression can develop in exciting ways.

Why UWE Bristol?

BSc(Hons) Architectural Technology and Design (with Foundation Year) is accredited by Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB).

This is one of five courses that cover different specialisms in architecture. We produce sought-after graduates with specialist knowledge and the skill to create exciting buildings.

This course equips you to become a chartered architectural technologist, working at the heart of the contemporary construction industry.

Gain a solid understanding of technological progression in construction, and where it sits within the history of architecture.

Study and apply design concepts and construction technologies to a range of building problems. Sketch and assess buildings that inspire and inform your work on day and residential field trips.

Take a year out to work in a professional practice and gain valuable real-world experience that improves your employability.

Our students become designers who can skilfully communicate ideas and contract managers who can control the procurement process.

Where can it take you?

There’s a wide range of career opportunities for technologists with design skills.

You could go on to work in architectural and engineering practices in the public or private sectors, or for contractors and developers, project managers and systems manufacturers.

Take a look at our online yearbook of student projects from our architecture and product design courses.

Fine Art – MA

MA Fine Art at UWE Bristol is designed for individuals who wish to pursue their practice to a professional level and gain knowledge and insight into contemporary practice.

This course provides a structure to enable you to extend your practical, critical, contextual and theoretical knowledge of Fine Art and gain skills and experience in order to operate in a professional context beyond University.

There is no emphasis on a particular type of work. Students work in painting, installation, performance, sculpture, photography, moving image and drawing. This reflects contemporary practice and allows you to explore and experiment with a range of formats throughout your time here.

Teaching is based at City Campus at Spike Island, within this internationally renowned contemporary art venue on Bristol’s harbourside and part of UWE Bristol’s City Campus. Here you will benefit from a vibrant creative environment and a range of work and volunteering opportunities.

You will also have full access access to other City Campus sites and all that they have to offer.

A professional learning environment

You will study alongside a small yet diverse group of students providing support and sharing insights and perspectives.

Students highly value the teaching input and experience of research-active, practicing artists all of whom exhibit nationally and internationally.

Teaching is centred at Spike Island an international centre for the development of contemporary art and design – bringing further expertise, opportunities, access to public events and regular guest speakers.

City Campus at Bower Ashton offers you access to modern resources and workshops including sound, film, casting, photography, textiles and print. This will extend your knowledge of methods and techniques and support your creative development.

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