The MArch Architecture (Professional) programme builds on our established hands-on approach to architectural education, integrating industry engagement and research as the next step in your development as an architect. Accredited by both RIBA and ARB you will engage with the very latest thinking and technologies in architecture and urban design to foster innovative applications for our global future. The programme has been developed according to the new accreditation framework and ARB’s Academic competency Outcomes.
The programme is structured around a student-centred learning approach and ‘research by design’ pedagogy that provides a flexible framework from which you can deliver design experimentation and entrepreneurial thinking by taking advantage of the broad ecosystem of actors and resources that our integrated design lab approach affords.
The programme is delivered at our Loughborough campus across both years of study. Teaching combines lectures and studio‑based learning, supported by several practice visits and residential study trips that enhance your engagement with contemporary architectural contexts. Throughout the course, you will have full access to dedicated studio spaces, VR and digital fabrication labs, and over 3,000m² of specialist workshops, enabling the development, construction, and testing of full‑scale design prototypes. We also use our London Campus as a base for trips and seminars.
The programme is delivered over two years of full-time study. Teaching, learning and assessment is at postgraduate level (Level 7) but follows the undergraduate teaching year and Regulations. Primarily delivered through the ‘Design Studio’ this programme it is suitable for those who have a strong interest in driving self-led research by design. Our approach allows students to develop their personal interests (e.g. AI, ecological design, etc), whilst ensuring a comprehensive approach to professional learning and competency.
Our entry requirements are listed using standard UK undergraduate degree classifications i.e. first-class honours, upper second-class honours and lower second-class honours. To learn the equivalent for your country, please choose it from the drop-down below.
A portfolio submission and interview will form part of the admissions process for candidates that have earned a first or 2:1 on their Part 1 architecture degree (or equivalent, if international) or relevant discipline (for example, architectural engineering, or urban design).
In case where an exceptional portfolio and interview score is achieved by a candidate with a 2:2 from with an Architecture degree, an offer may be made.
To undertake the MArch, all students must complete the entire course with Loughborough University. Candidates should note that there is no provision for direct entry to the second year of the course, nor is there any opportunity to study abroad at another University for any period of the course.
Your design portfolio should be a single PDF document with a maximum of 30 pages and maximum size of 50MB.
The portfolio should clearly communicate your creative and design skills applied to architectural and/or urban design projects. We look for a breadth of conceptual thinking, a rigorous design process and creative architectural propositions which challenge conventional practices and push the boundaries of architectural thinking. Showcasing a wide range of ways in which you explore architectural elements and representational skills from hand to digital is beneficial.
Application deadline: 31 July
Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website .