You will normally have at least an upper second-class undergraduate UK honours degree (or international equivalent) in a related field including Architecture, Landscape, Environment Design, Urban Design.
Candidates are required to provide a digital portfolio and a written personal statement (approximately 450 words) as part of the application process to evidence designing/architectural practice and research.
Other professional qualifications or degree disciplines will be considered on merit and/or with relevant professional experience, on a case-by-case basis. As part of this process, the internal programme and university admissions teams may review applicant’s portfolios to determine suitability based upon drawing and communication of related skills, and the relevance of experience. Applicants may be invited to attend additional pre-start study skills support.
Overseas applicants will require IELTS with an overall score of 6.5 with no less than 5.5 in any category, or an equivalent accepted English qualification.
How can architecture help create fairer, greener and more resilient cities for the future?
As urban environments face growing pressures from climate change, population growth and social inequality, there has never been a greater need for creative thinkers who can reimagine how cities are designed, experienced and sustained. The MA Architecture and Urbanism at Manchester School of Architecture (MSA) empowers you to explore these challenges through a combination of research, design thinking and strategic innovation, preparing you to shape the future of urban life.
This forward-thinking postgraduate programme combines in-depth research with studio-based design practice to investigate how cultural, economic and environmental forces influence cities and places. You will develop advanced skills in urban design, architectural thinking, research methods, critical analysis and creative problem-solving while exploring key themes such as housing, landscape, contextualism and sustainable urban development. Through written, drawn and modelled work, you will learn to analyse complex urban conditions and propose innovative responses to contemporary challenges.
As part of the internationally recognised Manchester School of Architecture, the course offers a unique opportunity to study within a programme jointly delivered by Manchester Metropolitan University and The University of Manchester. You will benefit from access to specialist workshops, making and media facilities, libraries and computer suites across both institutions. Supported by research-active academics, practitioner-tutors and international guest speakers, your learning will be shaped by the latest thinking in architecture, urbanism and city-making.
What sets this course apart is its strong connection to real-world practice. Using urban laboratories, live projects and Manchester’s dynamic urban landscape as a living classroom, you will work alongside industry professionals and engage directly with contemporary urban issues. Strong links with leading design practices, consultancies and research organisations provide valuable professional insight and networking opportunities.
Whether your ambition lies in architectural practice, urban design, policy, consultancy or academic research, this course will equip you with the knowledge, confidence and critical perspective to make a meaningful impact. Graduating with the skills to address complex urban challenges, you will be prepared to help create more sustainable, inclusive and future-ready cities.
Joint degree and world-class resources
You will study a programme jointly delivered by The University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University. Graduates receive a degree certificate that carries both institutions’ crests and titles.
Industry networks
You will benefit from MSA’s strong industry connections and employer network. Practitioner-tutors contribute directly to the studio curriculum, supported by international visiting speakers, practice visits, and building studies.
Manchester as a living urban laboratory
Gain hands-on experience through site visits and in-situ analysis, using Manchester’s complex urban landscape as a real-world laboratory for understanding urban conditions and spatial dynamics.
Globally engaged, locally grounded
This is a globally connected course where students’ thesis work is regularly shared through conferences, exhibitions, competitions, and publications.
A diverse learning community
You will join a vibrant, international cohort with backgrounds in architecture, landscape, and related fields. The programme celebrates this diversity by offering pathways that support your individual interests and professional ambitions.