Architecture BA

2025-26 entry
School of Architecture

Recognised by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), our Architecture BA provides you with a broad knowledge ranging across the sciences and humanities. Through lectures, studio-based design work and professional experience you'll explore how architecture improves the lives of those who inhabit and use it.

Key details

Explore this course:

    Course description

    Arts Tower Drawing studio

    Shape the world around you with an expert-led, hands-on architecture degree, with full RIBA accreditation.

    Immerse yourself in studio work to develop fundamental architectural skills and practical experience, whilst establishing your own design personality.

    With our expert teaching team and close collaboration with practising architects, you'll apply both taught and practical knowledge to studio design projects that challenge you to think creatively and critically.

    Lectures will support and inform your studio work, drawing from expertise across sciences and humanities, whilst working closely with and alongside your coursemates will sharpen your collaborative skills and critical eye.

    Under the guidance of specialists from across the field, in your third year, you'll undertake a major design project that will give you the opportunity to showcase your skills to address a range of cultural, technological, conceptual and representational ideas.

    Our teaching teams include practising architects and professional academics from a range of architectural backgrounds, committed to providing you with the skills and knowledge needed to make a positive impact on the world.

    Why study this course?

    • Study a fully accredited course - recognised by the Royal Institute of British Architects as giving exemption from RIBA Part 1.
    • Become part of a top-ranking department - top 5 in the UK according to the Complete University Guide 2023, The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2023, and The Guardian University Guide 2023.
    • Make use of expert facilities - study in collaborative, open-plan studios with panoramic views of Sheffield, and make use of on-site facilities for woodwork, metalwork, casting and architectural model-making.

    Recognised by the Royal Institute of British Architects as giving exemption from RIBA Part 1.

    Prescribed by the Architects Registration Board (ARB) subject to periodic review by ARB, for the purposes of entry onto the United Kingdom Register of Architects.

    Student working in architectural practice

    Modules

    A selection of modules are available each year - some examples are below. There may be changes before you start your course. From May of the year of entry, formal programme regulations will be available in our Programme Regulations Finder.

    Choose a year to see modules for a level of study:

    Title: Architecture BA course structure
    UCAS code: K100
    Years: 2022, 2023
    First year

    Core modules:

    Architectural Design 1

    A course of studio based practical architectural design work which aims to: introduce the perception of architecture; introduce issues of cultural and technological significance; generate the interpretation and solution of a series of wide ranging design problems. The technical aspects of the work aims to: develop an understanding of the way building structure, construction and services inform, interpret and contribute to the architectural design process; and provide the opportunity for the demonstration of that understanding as an essential component of practical architectural design.

    30 credits
    Architectural Design 2

    A course of studio based practical architectural design work which aims to: widen perception of architecture; introduce issues of cultural and technological significance; generate the interpretation and solution of a series of wide ranging design problems. The technical aspects of the work aims to: develop an understanding of the way building structure, construction and services inform, interpret and contribute to the architectural design process; and provide the opportunity for the demonstration of that understanding as an essential component of practical architectural design

    30 credits
    Communication 1

    This module introduces students to the main communication skills used in architecture, including spoken presentation, listening, various graphical techniques, model-making and information technology.

    10 credits
    Communication 2

    This module introduces students to the main communication skills used in architecture, including spoken presentation, primary research, various graphical techniques and information technology.

    10 credits
    Environment and Technology 1

    The overall aim of the Environment and Technology modules is to provide the knowledge and ability in building technology, environmental design and construction methods that are necessary to undertake design projects in the Design Studio.

    This module presents principles of planet and place including;

    -   climate literacy and climate justice, building in the era of the climate emergency

    -   principles of regenerative design and ecology

    -   historical overview of solar architecture

    10 credits
    Environment and Technology 2

    The overall aim of the Environment and Technology modules is to provide the knowledge and ability in building technology, environmental design and construction methods that are necessary to undertake design projects in the Design Studio. This module presents principles of planet and place including;-   environmental design and site analysis, landscape principles, buildings and their surroundings, interior and exterior spaces

    -   analysis of solar sun path and microclimate, building form and building physics

    10 credits
    Humanities 1

    ARC103 explores the reciprocal relationship between architecture, the built environment and society, introducing a broad range of inhabitations and domestic settings across the world and across time. Through a multidisciplinary and cross-cultural approach lectures will examine how humans have approached their needs for shelter and inhabitation, and the relationship between domestic types and public life, both in the past and in the present. The course seeks to establish that architecture is socially contextualised through style, symbolic references, typologies, use, materiality, meaning, structure, layout, and form, and also through the framing of human activities and rituals. By adopting a global approach the course engages with broader questions of locality, exchange, and architecture's adaptability.

    10 credits
    Humanities 2

    ARC104 examines how the field of architecture is positioned in relation to contemporary as much as to past issues. It will provide basic knowledge of particular moments in the recent history of the architecture (long twentieth century) and will familiarise you with selected figures, concerns and events. The emphasis is on using case studies, often of canonic buildings, from all over the world to encourage discussion of the way architecture has been shaped in the past and how that might affect the present and future. The module will introduce histories and theories of architecture yet emphasise an interdisciplinary approach that mobilises knowledge and methods from across the humanities. The module uses the notion of  'situating' in order to contextualise the positions, voices, agendas of, expressions and representations of architecture. It aims to contribute to your development as a critical thinker and researcher and help you both define your own personal agendas and tools and evolve informed and rigorous arguments in both words and images.

    10 credits

    The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it's up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research; funding changes; professional accreditation requirements; student or employer feedback; outcomes of reviews; and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we'll consult and inform students in good time and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption.

    Learning and assessment

    Learning

    We adopt the model of architectural education which focuses primarily around the design studio. This is supported by lectures, seminars, field trips and workshops.

    We invest to create the right environment for you. That means outstanding facilities, study spaces and support, including 24/7 online access to our online library service.

    Study spaces and computers are available to offer you choice and flexibility for your study. Our five library sites give you access to over 1.3 million books and periodicals. You can access your library account and our rich digital collections from anywhere on or off campus. Other library services include study skills training to improve your grades, and tailored advice from experts in your subject.

    Learning support facilities and library opening hours

    Our approach to architectural education is underpinned by our world-class research and our strong links to practice. In the design studio you will be guided by academic tutors and practicing architects who bring their expertise to your projects. Some run their own practices, others specialise in areas such as sustainable design, all bring the latest in architectural thinking to help guide your projects.

    Assessment

    You will be assessed through both group and individual coursework, which may include design portfolios, written reports or presentations. Feedback will be given via individual and group tutorials and studio based design reviews.

    Programme specification

    This tells you the aims and learning outcomes of this course and how these will be achieved and assessed.

    Find programme specification for this course

    Entry requirements

    With Access Sheffield, you could qualify for additional consideration or an alternative offer - find out if you're eligible.

    Standard offer

    The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
    AAA

    A Levels + a fourth Level 3 qualification
    AAB + B in Core Maths
    International Baccalaureate
    36
    BTEC Extended Diploma
    D*DD in a relevant subject
    BTEC Diploma
    DD in a relevant subject + A at A Level
    Scottish Highers + 1 Advanced Higher
    AAAAB + A
    Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels
    A + AA
    Access to HE Diploma
    Award of Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 39 at Distinction and 6 at Merit
    Other requirements
    • Native language A Levels are not accepted

    • GCSE Maths grade 4/C

    • We will consider your application if you have completed the UAL Extended Diploma in Art and Design in combination with an A Level in an acceptable subject

    • We will consider your application if you taken two Art & Design A Levels if these have been taken in combination with an acceptable subject

    • Relevant BTEC subjects include Engineering, Applied Science, Art and Design, Business or IT

    Access Sheffield offer

    The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
    AAB

    A Levels + a fourth Level 3 qualification
    AAB + B in Core Maths
    International Baccalaureate
    34
    BTEC Extended Diploma
    DDD in a relevant subject
    BTEC Diploma
    DD in a relevant subject + A at A Level
    Scottish Highers + 1 Advanced Higher
    AAABB + A
    Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels
    B + AA
    Access to HE Diploma
    Award of Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 36 at Distinction and 9 at Merit
    Other requirements
    • Native language A Levels are not accepted

    • GCSE Maths grade 4/C

    • We will consider your application if you have completed the UAL Extended Diploma in Art and Design in combination with an A Level in an acceptable subject

    • We will consider your application if you taken two Art & Design A Levels if these have been taken in combination with an acceptable subject

    • Relevant BTEC subjects include Engineering, Applied Science, Art and Design, Business or IT

    English language requirements

    You must demonstrate that your English is good enough for you to successfully complete your course. For this course, we require: GCSE English Language at grade 4/C; IELTS grade of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component; or an alternative acceptable English language qualification

    Pathway programme for international students

    If you're an international student who does not meet the entry requirements for this course, you have the opportunity to apply for an International Foundation Year in Business, Social Sciences and Humanities at the University of Sheffield International College. This course is designed to develop your English language and academic skills. Upon successful completion, you can progress to degree level study at the University of Sheffield.

    If you have any questions about entry requirements, please contact the department.

    Graduate careers

    School of Architecture

    Our graduates often go into architectural practice for a year or two before doing a two-year MArch in Architecture - either at Sheffield or another school. They also pursue careers in the built environment or move on to a specialist masters course.

    Employers include AHMM, ARUP, Building Design Partnership, Haworth Tompkins Architects, Feilden Clegg Bradley, Grimshaw Architects, Hawkins\Brown, and Penoyre & Prasad.

    Graduates of our degree courses are well prepared for a career in roles such as: built environment consultant, government and local authority advisor, creative and strategic policy maker, architectural critic and journalist, arts and heritage manager and design and illustration.

    Lily Kuik

    The collaborative culture at Sheffield has helped me connect with industry

    Lily Kuik BA Architecture

    Lily, a BA Architecture graduate, enjoyed the collaborative and supportive environment at SSoA which resulted in her creating an award-winning design and gaining a job at Arup.

    School of Architecture

    UG students working in studio

    Come to Sheffield and join some of the best architecture students in the UK - our students have won prizes at the RIBA Student Awards and the Royal Academy Summer Show. They've been shortlisted in the European Architecture Medals and the Inspiring Graduate Awards. Our staff are doing world-class research, helping to make the school a leader in our field across the UK and internationally.

    We believe in architecture that makes a difference. We know that it has the potential to improve the lives of those who inhabit and use it.

    Through our internationally-acclaimed teaching and research, we explore the social, spatial and environmental implications of architecture. As a Sheffield student, you will engage with real issues affecting the built environment and specifically the challenges of the Climate Emergency and zero carbon design.

    We encourage you to explore ideas and collaborate with other students. Through group tutorials and peer review you'll learn how to express your opinions, and value the opinions of others. Sheffield is the perfect place to develop your personality as a designer.

    We provide a balance of theory, design work and professional experience delivered within the context of a strong studio culture. The studio acts as a laboratory for trialling your creative and critical ideas, and for developing fundamental architectural skills. You'll share ideas during group tutorials and review other students' work. This encourages you to express your own opinion and to value the opinions of others, as you begin to develop your personality as a designer.

    The School of Architecture sits high up in the Arts Tower, offering unrivalled panoramic views across Sheffield and beyond. This is where you will spend the majority of your time in the design studio.

    You'll also attend lectures across the campus and take advantage of our drawing studios and facilities for woodwork, metalwork, casting and architectural model making.

    Facilities

    Our generous open-plan studios promote collaboration and you will be able to take advantage of our facilities for woodwork, metalwork, casting and architectural model making.

    You'll have access to the latest digital techniques in our computer labs which host a suite of professional Building Information Modelling and Computer Aided Design software. You can also take advantage of our digital review facilities and will have access to 360 degree capture technology.

    Workshops and tutorials are embedded into each course to ensure you have the skills you need.

    School of Architecture

    Why choose Sheffield?

    The University of Sheffield

      Number one in the Russell Group
    National Student Survey 2023 (based on aggregate responses)

      92 per cent of our research is rated as world-leading or internationally excellent
    Research Excellence Framework 2021

      Top 50 in the most international universities rankings
    Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2023

      Number one Students' Union in the UK
    Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023, 2022, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017

      Number one for teaching quality, Students' Union and clubs/societies
    StudentCrowd 2023 University Awards

      A top 20 university targeted by employers
    The Graduate Market in 2023, High Fliers report


    School of Architecture

    3rd in the UK for architecture

    Complete University Guide 2023

    Top 5 in the UK for architecture

    The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2023 / The Guardian University Guide 2023

    Fees and funding

    Fees

    Additional costs

    The annual fee for your course includes a number of items in addition to your tuition. If an item or activity is classed as a compulsory element for your course, it will normally be included in your tuition fee. There are also other costs which you may need to consider.

    Examples of what’s included and excluded

    Funding your study

    Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for a bursary, scholarship or loan to help fund your study and enhance your learning experience.

    Use our Student Funding Calculator to work out what you’re eligible for.

    Our selection process

    After you've applied, we'll ask you to submit a portfolio of your own artwork. We'll be looking for observation skills, criticality, invention and representation. The portfolio should consist of ten reproductions of art or design work. You'll receive full details of the requirements, format, submission and assessment criteria after we've received your application.

    Generally we don't ask candidates to attend an interview. However, if you're a mature student or if you don't have conventional academic qualifications, we may invite you to an interview.

    Visit

    University open days

    We host five open days each year, usually in June, July, September, October and November. You can talk to staff and students, tour the campus and see inside the accommodation.

    Open days: book your place

    Subject tasters

    If you’re considering your post-16 options, our interactive subject tasters are for you. There are a wide range of subjects to choose from and you can attend sessions online or on campus.

    Upcoming taster sessions

    Offer holder days

    If you've received an offer to study with us, we'll invite you to one of our offer holder days, which take place between February and April. These open days have a strong department focus and give you the chance to really explore student life here, even if you've visited us before.

    Campus tours

    Our weekly guided tours show you what Sheffield has to offer - both on campus and beyond. You can extend your visit with tours of our city, accommodation or sport facilities.

    Campus tour: book your place

    Apply

    Make sure you've done everything you need to do before you apply.

    How to apply When you're ready to apply, see the UCAS website:
    www.ucas.com

    Not ready to apply yet? You can also register your interest in this course.

    The awarding body for this course is the University of Sheffield.

    Recognition of professional qualifications: from 1 January 2021, in order to have any UK professional qualifications recognised for work in an EU country across a number of regulated and other professions you need to apply to the host country for recognition. Read information from the UK government and the EU Regulated Professions Database.

    Any supervisors and research areas listed are indicative and may change before the start of the course.

    Our student protection plan

    Terms and Conditions upon Acceptance of an Offer

    2025-2026

    Make sure you've done everything you need to do before you apply.

    How to apply When you're ready to apply, see the UCAS website:
    www.ucas.com

    Not ready to apply yet? You can also register your interest in this course.

    Recognised by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), our Architecture BA provides you with a broad knowledge ranging across the sciences and humanities. Through lectures, studio-based design work and professional experience you'll explore how architecture improves the lives of those who inhabit and use it.