Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
Undergraduate BA (Hons)
Architecture
Take the first step towards becoming a fully qualified architect. This accredited course fuses practical and technical skills with imagination to encourage your creativity.
Course Overview
-
K100 -
L27 -
City Campus -
Full-Time -
3 Years -
16 Sep 2024
Studio time is central to this course. You’ll develop your skills in our extensive studio facilities, which include workshop and computer-modelling software.
As part of this course, you’ll:
- Study a wide range of topics – from studio design and model-making, to art, history and culture
- Use industry-standard tools to design and build your projects
- Learn technical skills in workshops alongside students from our BA (Hons) Interior Architecture & Design and BA (Hons) Landscape Architecture & Design courses
Student work
You can see examples of work from previous students by visiting the Leeds School of Arts festival site or our 2019 Research Yearbook; Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3, Volume 4 & Volume 5.
You can also follow us on Twitter and Instagram.
Industry events and guest lectures
You’ll have access to external events throughout the course including lectures and workshops. The INSIDE/OUT lecture series brings together some of the most exciting names from the fields of art, architecture, design, fashion, film, music, performing arts and beyond. You can catch up on previous lectures by visiting the Leeds Arts Research Centre site.
Professional body exemptions
This qualification provides exemption from the Architects Registration Board (ARB) and RIBA Part I examination.
Professional experience and development
The Leeds School of Architecture offers a Professional Experience and Development Record (PEDR) Monitoring Service for graduates with BA (Hons) Architecture, Master of Architecture (MArch) or similar degree.
The PEDR is an electronic record of your professional experience, development and competency in the practice of architecture. A PEDR will offer support on the pathway to registration or licensure, primarily with the ARB. For more information, please visit our PEDR page.
Becoming an architect
To become a fully qualified architect takes seven years. We offer the professional body recognition that will enable you to progress on to further study in this field. You’ll need to complete a MArch (Master of Architecture) giving exemption from Part II of the RIBA Examination in Architecture. You’ll then complete the Postgraduate Diploma in Architectural Professional Practice, giving exemption from Part III.
Why study Architecture at Leeds Beckett University...
- 91% of students were positive about the teaching on BA (Hons) Architecture*
- Take the first step towards becoming an architect; this course provides exemption from the Architects Registration Board (ARB) and RIBA Part I examination
- Industry experienced academics with extensive networks will give you exposure to practitioners, leading consultants, and other experts
- Optional Professional Experience and Development Record (PEDR) Monitoring Service
- Access to the Project Office, our own in-house RIBA chartered architectural practice
- We have links throughout the region, nationally and internationally with architectural practice
*National Student Survey 2023
Building a better future for city’s community Senior lecturer, Craig Stott, explains how our university’s Project Office – a RIBA Chartered Architecture Practice based in our School of Architecture – is giving students the opportunity to support not-for-profit and charitable organisations in need of architectural input.
Everything you need to know
Discover all there is to know about the course, from entry requirements and fees to exploring the school you’ll be joining - we’ve got it covered.
Entry requirements
128
points required
We have welcomed students from over 140 countries to study at Leeds Beckett University. If you are interested in studying with us you can find all the information you need about entry requirements and how to apply on our country specific pages.
Entry requirements
128
points required
UCAS Tariff Points: 128 points required.
(Minimum 88 from two A Levels or equivalent, excluding General Studies).
GCSEs
GCSE English Language and Maths at Grade 4 or above (Grade C for GCSEs taken before 2017) or equivalent. Key Skills Level 2, Functional Skills Level 2 and the Certificate in Adult Literacy and Adult Numeracy are accepted in place of GCSEs.Access to HE Diploma
Pass overall with a minimum of 128 UCAS tariff points.T Levels
Pass overall with a minimum of 128 UCAS tariff points, including a C or above on the core.Scottish Awards
128 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of 5 Highers of which at least 2 must be grade B or above.Irish Leaving Certificate
128 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of 5 subjects at higher level of which at least 3 must be grade H3 or above.International baccalaureate
128 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of 3 Highers of which at least 2 must be grade H5 or above.Interview Required
We conduct interviews as part of the admissions process and suitable applicants will be invited to an interview - interview dates will be published in due course. Invitations are sent via UCAS and you should check your UCAS Hub account for further interview details. At interview you are assessed on your portfolio (artwork or photographs of artwork together with written assignments), general knowledge and your enthusiasm for Architecture.
IELTS
IELTS 6.5 with no skills below 6.0, or an equivalent qualification. The University provides excellent support for any applicant who may be required to undertake additional English language courses.
Selection Criteria
We may use selection criteria based on your personal attributes; experience and/or commitment to the area of study. This information will be derived from your personal statement and reference and will only be used if you have met the general entry requirements.
Our commitment to help every student succeed
Leeds Beckett University is committed to ensuring that every student with the potential to succeed at our University is able to do so regardless of their background. For this reason we operate a contextual admissions policy, which means we take into account a range of additional factors when we assess a student’s application. Applicants who meet at least one of our contextual admissions criteria will be offered a place on this course with lower (predicted or achieved) UCAS Tariff Points than our published tariff (above).Our contextual admissions criteria are:
- Home postcode is in an area where few people go to University (POLAR4 quintile 1 or 2 area. This can be checked on the Office for Students website).
- Declared disability on the UCAS application form (or direct application for part time applicants).
- Over the age of 21 on the 1st of September before the course starts.
- Declared as a care experienced on the UCAS application form (or direct application for part time applicants).
Mature Applicants
Our university welcomes applications from mature applicants who demonstrate academic potential. All students will be considered through the contextual admissions policy described above. If you do not meet the requirements through the contextual admissions policy, we may still be able to make you an offer if you have recent relevant work experience through our 'Recognition of Prior Learning' policy. Please ensure that you list both your qualifications and any relevant work experience in your application so that we can consider you under both schemes where applicable. All applicants should meet our standard entry requirements of GCSE grade C in English language and, where specified, Maths. Alternative qualifications such as functional skills are accepted in lieu of GCSEs for most courses.We have welcomed students from over 140 countries to study at Leeds Beckett University. If you are interested in studying with us you can find all the information you need about entry requirements and how to apply on our country specific pages.
International baccalaureate
128 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of 3 Highers of which at least 2 must be grade H5 or above.Interview Required
We conduct interviews as part of the admissions process and suitable applicants will be invited to an interview - interview dates will be published in due course. Invitations are sent via UCAS and you should check your UCAS Hub account for further interview details. At interview you are assessed on your portfolio (artwork or photographs of artwork together with written assignments), general knowledge and your enthusiasm for Architecture.
IELTS
IELTS 6.5 with no skills below 6.0, or an equivalent qualification. The University provides excellent support for any applicant who may be required to undertake additional English language courses.
Selection Criteria
We may use selection criteria based on your personal attributes; experience and/or commitment to the area of study. This information will be derived from your personal statement and reference and will only be used if you have met the general entry requirements.
Additional entry requirements:
Verify your qualifications
If you are an international student, we can help you to compare and verify your qualifications. Please contact our International Office on +44 (0)113 812 1111 09.00 to 17.00 Mon-Thurs / 09.00 to 16.30 Fri GMT or email internationaloffice@leedsbeckett.ac.uk.Need to improve your English Language skills?
Don't worry if you don't have the level of English required for your chosen course. We offer a wide range of courses which have been designed to help you to improve your qualifications and English language ability, most of which are accredited by the British Council. Check your English and find out more about our English courses.More questions?
No matter what your questions, we are here to answer them, visit our International website to get more information and find out about our online open days.Independent study is a crucial part of learning at university and you will be required to undertake many hours of self-directed research and reading, and preparation and writing of assessments. Your course is delivered through a number of modules, which will help you to plan your time and establish a study routine. Outside of your lectures, workshops and tutorials, a range of support is available to assist with your independent study. Our subject-specific librarians will be on hand to direct you to the specialist learning and study-skill resources. You’ll also be assigned an academic advisor to give you tailored feedback and support.
Teaching & Learning
You will develop and explore values, knowledge, skills and techniques appropriate to the development of creative, responsive professional architects. The course will also provide a basis for further postgraduate study in architecture leading to future qualification as an architect, or for further academic study in architecture or a career in an alternate discipline. The tabs below detail what and how you will study in each year of your course.
What you'll learn
We will introduce you to the history and theory of art and architecture, investigating how cultural influences have impacted upon the industry.
A broad foundation of architectural histories, including key architectural movements and architects, which will provide the framework for you to analyse, evaluate, observe, speculate and anticipate how historical developments have catalysed design.
Gain an insight into the key principles of sustainability, structure, construction and environmental science in order to understand the fundamental elements of building.
Explore the constraints and possibilities presented by constructional, environmental and structural issues related to making through investigation.
We will encourage you to think creatively about design. You will do this through a series of research, investigative and practical projects.
An introduction to the architectural design of more complex spaces, including buildings. This module will allow you to describe architectural space and understand ways in which space may be created.
Using a broad toolkit of techniques and approaches, you will develop the skills necessary for the detailed exploration and communication of architectural design ideas.
What you'll learn
An opportunity build your knowledge of architectural history and theory issues related to urban planning, community and the city.
Explore the history of cities in their multiple states of development. You will gain an insight into real situations which cities have to face, such as competitions, threats, disasters, wars, expansions, divisions, migrations, dilemmas, controversies and demises.
Study modern technologies used in different types of buildings. The aim is to record, analyse and appraise technological strategies relevant to work undertaken in design studio.
Demonstrate your understanding of technological issues and establish strategies that you will use in your AD2.2 design project. You will also continue to develop your knowledge of architectural technologies as well as skills in research and visual presentation.
Examine the principles and precedents of structure, enclosure and materiality through a series of short, design-led research projects, supported by study visits to examples of contemporary architecture. You will develop a larger scale architectural proposition as part of an urban intervention strategy. Your innovative proposal should engage with the art, culture, social aspects, technology and materiality of place.
Develop an architectural proposition (at a larger scale than in AD2.1) as part of an urban intervention strategy, with particular emphasis on the development of critical thinking and narrative. You will progress your proposals as you creatively engage with the art, culture, social aspects, technology and materiality of place.
Develop your skills in two and three-dimensional techniques including specific computer-aided design packages associated with industry. You'll critically engage with visualisation, communication and design development techniques alongside your AD2.1 design module, using a variety of graphic and technical means.
This module will introduce you to the wider roles of the architect beyond standalone designer. You'll consider the job of the architect within the broader design team and understand the roles of associated industries and clients, and their complex interrelations. You'll also develop an understanding of regulatory systems as well as climate literacy and life safety.
What you'll learn
This is an opportunity to focus your studies on a particular area of architecture that interests you. You will benefit from a range of lectures by speakers whose work is related to design studio themes.
Build on the knowledge you have gained in your first and second years as you focus on the movement from synthesis to practical application. The work you do will inform your design studio project.
Examine and articulate how detailed technological solutions are implemented within your concurrent design project.
Reinforce your knowledge of industries, organisations, regulations and procedures involved in translating design concepts into buildings and understand how cost control is an integral part of design.
Develop a comprehensive building design by resolving a proposal that explores technological and professional issues. You will enhance your drawing and making skills through workshops in casting, rendering, detailed large-scale model-making, digital design and photographic techniques.
Present a finished scheme of appropriate scale and complexity supported by your investigations from AD3.1. Your proposal should establish how strategic ideas translate into physical, material form, both at a strategic and at a detailed level.
Fees & Funding hellooo
£9,250
UK
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2024/25 is £9250. The amount you will pay may increase each year to take into account the effects of inflation.
£16,000
International 2024
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2024/25 is £16000. The amount you will pay is fixed at this level for each year of your course.
Fees & Funding
£9,250
For students entering in 2024
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2024/25 is £9250. The amount you will pay may increase each year to take into account the effects of inflation.
Additional course costs
Tuition Fees
Your tuition fees cover the cost of registration, tuition, academic supervision, assessments and examinations.
The following are also included in the cost of your course:
- 24/7 Library and student IT support
- Free wifi via eduroam
- Skills workshops and resources
- Library membership, giving access to more than 500,000 printed, multimedia and digital resources
- Access to software, including five free copies of Microsoft Office 365 to install on your PC,laptop and MAC, and access to free high-end software via the Leeds Beckett remote app
- Loan of high-end media equipment to support your studies
Access to course resources, equipment and facilities, including:
- Student membership of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA)
- Free entry to Inside/Out lecture series
- Access to the Project Office, our in-house architectural consultancy
- Use of studio equipment and facilities, including parallel motion boards and flip-top drawing. boards, plus the latest software and printers
In many cases, costs associated with your course will be included in your course fee. However, in some cases there are ‘essential’ additional costs (those that you will be required to meet in addition to your course fee), and/or ‘optional’ additional costs (costs that are not required, but that you might choose to pay). We have included those essential or optional additional costs that relate to your course, below.
Essential Costs
- Stationery / materials (£150)
- Design studio visits. Local options are offered with minimal associated costs other than transportation (£25 approx.)
- Printing (£50-100)
Optional Costs
- European overseas visit (£350 approx.)
- Local week-long work placement for BA2 and BA3 students (associated transport costs £15-20)
Other study-related expenses to consider: materials that you will need to complete your course such as books (whilst the library provides access to readings recommended for your modules, you may wish to purchase your own copies of some books); you can also make suggestions for books to be added to Library stock; placement costs (these may include travel expenses and living costs); student visas (international students only); printing, photocopying and stationery (you may need to pay for multiple copies of your dissertation or final project to be printed and bound); events associated with your course such as field trips; study abroad opportunities (travel costs and accommodation, visas and immunisations). Other costs could include academic conferences (travel costs) and professional-body membership (where applicable). The costs you will need to cover for graduation will include gown hire and guest tickets, and optional extras such as professional photography.
As well as your mobile phone, you will also need access to a desktop computer and/or laptop to complete assignments and access university online services such as MyBeckett, your virtual learning environment. You can book and borrow AV equipment through the media equipment service accessed online via the student hub and located in the library at each campus. Equipment includes: 360 Cameras, iPads, GoPros, MacBooks, portable data projectors, portable projection screens, flipchart stands, remote presenters, digital cameras and camcorders, SLR cameras, speakers, microphones, headphones, headsets, tripods, digital audio recorders and PC/laptops (a laptop loans service is provided on campus in the library on both campuses). Student laptops are also available from the laptop lockers located in the libraries.
This list is not exhaustive, costs are approximate and will vary depending on the choices you make during your course. Any rental, travel or living costs are also in addition to your course fees. If you choose to study via distance learning, you may not be able to access all of the facilities listed if you are not able to visit us on campus.
£16,000
For students entering in 2024
The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2024/25 is £16000. The amount you will pay is fixed at this level for each year of your course.
Additional course costs
Tuition Fees
Your tuition fees cover the cost of registration, tuition, academic supervision, assessments and examinations.
The following are also included in the cost of your course:
- 24/7 Library and student IT support
- Free wifi via eduroam
- Skills workshops and resources
- Library membership, giving access to more than 500,000 printed, multimedia and digital resources
- Access to software, including five free copies of Microsoft Office 365 to install on your PC,laptop and MAC, and access to free high-end software via the Leeds Beckett remote app
- Loan of high-end media equipment to support your studies
In many cases, costs associated with your course will be included in your course fee. However, in some cases there are ‘essential’ additional costs (those that you will be required to meet in addition to your course fee), and/or ‘optional’ additional costs (costs that are not required, but that you might choose to pay). We have included those essential or optional additional costs that relate to your course, below.
Access to course resources, equipment and facilities, including:
- Student membership of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA)
- Free entry to Inside/Out lecture series
- Access to the Project Office, our in-house architectural consultancy
- Use of studio equipment and facilities, including parallel motion boards and flip-top drawing. boards, plus the latest software and printers
Essential Costs
- Stationery / materials (£150)
- Design studio visits. Local options are offered with minimal associated costs other than transportation (£25 approx.)
- Printing (£50-100)
Optional Costs
- European overseas visit (£350 approx.)
- Local week-long work placement for BA2 and BA3 students (associated transport costs £15-20)
Other study-related expenses to consider: materials that you will need to complete your course such as books (whilst the library provides access to readings recommended for your modules, you may wish to purchase your own copies of some books); you can also make suggestions for books to be added to Library stock; placement costs (these may include travel expenses and living costs); student visas (international students only); printing, photocopying and stationery (you may need to pay for multiple copies of your dissertation or final project to be printed and bound); events associated with your course such as field trips; study abroad opportunities (travel costs and accommodation, visas and immunisations). Other costs could include academic conferences (travel costs) and professional-body membership (where applicable). The costs you will need to cover for graduation will include gown hire and guest tickets, and optional extras such as professional photography.
As well as your mobile phone, you will also need access to a desktop computer and/or laptop to complete assignments and access university online services such as MyBeckett, your virtual learning environment. You can book and borrow AV equipment through the media equipment service accessed online via the student hub and located in the library at each campus. Equipment includes: 360 Cameras, iPads, GoPros, MacBooks, portable data projectors, portable projection screens, flipchart stands, remote presenters, digital cameras and camcorders, SLR cameras, speakers, microphones, headphones, headsets, tripods, digital audio recorders and PC/laptops (a laptop loans service is provided on campus in the library on both campuses). Student laptops are also available from the laptop lockers located in the libraries.
This list is not exhaustive, costs are approximate and will vary depending on the choices you make during your course. Any rental, travel or living costs are also in addition to your course fees. If you choose to study via distance learning, you may not be able to access all of the facilities listed if you are not able to visit us on campus.
91%
of students were positive about the teaching on BA (Hons) Architecture
We work closely with our students to foster creative individuals who can think critically and independently to produce high quality designs.
Dr Claire Hannibal
Course Director
Architecture Study how to employ imagination alongside practical and technical skills.
Architecture Project Office Project Office is a RIBA chartered practice co-directed by Craig Stott and Simon Warren, both architects and senior lecturers in Architecture at Leeds Beckett University. Project Office is a design and research collaboration of staff and students making ethical, social and resilient architecture.
Moving on up
Leeds Beckett climbs 40 places in the Complete University Guide 2024
Your future in our hands
There’s a lot to consider when choosing a course. Take a look at the team you’ll be working with, employability statistics and career prospects to help make up your mind.
96%
of BA (Hons) Architecture graduates in work or further study 15 months after graduation*
My passion for architecture was sparked while I was at school. Going on to study at Leeds Beckett was perfect for me. I had access to industry-standard facilities, dedicated support from expert teaching staff and the social perks of living in a buzzing city. My course gave me the confidence to go out and get the industry experience I needed, and I'm now a fully qualified architect.
Louise Hartley
Architect The Harris Partnership
Career Prospects
This course provides the first step in becoming an architect and also offers an excellent grounding in design. As well as progressing to further studies in architecture, graduates have taken up a variety of careers, from virtual games design, product design and psychology to project management. To become a fully-qualified architect takes seven years and we offer the professional body recognition that will enable you to advance your studies and progress to professional accreditation. In order to fully qualify as an architect, you will need to complete a MArch (Master of Architecture), giving exemption from Part 2 of the RIBA Examination in Architecture. You will then complete the Postgraduate Diploma in Architectural Professional Practice, giving exemption from Part 3.
- Architect
- Architectural Technologist
- Interior and Spatial Designer
- Building Surveyor
Dr Claire Hannibal
Course Director / Leeds School Of Arts
Claire is the course leader of the BA (Hons) Architecture. She leads a design studio, lectures in architectural history and theory and is a PhD supervisor.
Scholarships and bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that an education at Leeds Beckett University is open to all. If you're thinking of joining us for undergraduate study, you may be eligible for a non-repayable scholarship or bursary to help with the cost of university. To find out if you are be eligible visit our scholarships and bursaries page.
We also offer a range of non-repayable scholarships for international students. To find out if you may be eligible visit our scholarships for international students page and select your home country from the drop-down list.
Our Graduate Promise
We have a dedicated team of people who will support you with all aspects of your career planning, from day one until 18 months after you graduate.
Getting you career ready is an integral part of your university life and this is embedded throughout your lectures and seminars. Outside of your course there is a wide range of support available to help you achieve your career goals, including:
- Getting ready to apply for jobs
- Working on your CV
- Interview skills and assessment centres
- Connecting with employers and organisations
Your Beckett experience
At Leeds Beckett your experience is important to us, find out more about what to expect from your time on this course and life at uni.
Student view Student Alex talks about his experience studying at Leeds Beckett University.
Leeds School of Arts ShowÂ
The End of Year Show celebrates the work of students from across the arts. We invite you to experience their visionary projects online.
Experience Leeds Beckett
Our state-of-the-art facilities and learning environments give you everything you need to succeed.
Leeds - Best Place to Live in the North and Northeast*
From music venues and art galleries to parks, shopping and transport – we’ve got it all. We also have the best-paying jobs outside of London.
*The Sunday Times Best Place to Live guide, 2024.
Still thinking about your uni choices? Discover Uni has official information to help you decide. They provide statistics for courses taken from national surveys and data collected from universities about their students.
