Master of Architecture in UK is an advanced and globally recognized degree with growing scope. The UK architecture program equips students with a revolutionary perspective of urbanism, contemporary architecture, architectural styles, and sustainable urban spaces. The UK is internationally recognized for top-accredited architecture schools and design programs.
Three UK schools are in the top 10 for global architecture rankings in the 2025 QS rankings. The first-ranked school is Bartlett School of Architecture, UCL, UK(1).
This blog lets students explore options, opportunities, programs, colleges, and careers with Masters of Architecture in the UK.
Highlights
| Eligibility for MArch Colleges | Bachelors in architecture, IELTS, sample of work |
| Course duration | 1-2 years |
| Average Tuition Fee | 13 lakhs INR |
| Career Prospects | Project manager, Urban planner, Design architect, interior designer, and Town planner. Architecture technologist |
| Specializations | Architecture environment, landscape architecture, urban design, digital architecture, sustainable architecture |
| Average Salary | 38 lakhs INR |
| Scholarships/ Internships | Offered by University |
| Monthly Living Cost | 1,44,510 INR |
Why study Masters of Architecture in UK?
The UK architecture programs are distinguished, reputed, specialized, historical, and vibrant.
- According to QS rankings 2024, almost all UK architecture schools are leading, with UCL UK being the top-ranked worldwide school.
- The UK architecture industry and firms are leading worldwide. The UK is a global hub of architecture education and projects.
- UK architecture schools have top and renowned research and job opportunities.
- UK architecture schools are accredited and have industry networks and practical methods of learning.
- The architecture programs have a vast range of specializations like urbanism, contemporary architecture, historical architecture, etc.
- Each student is exposed to rich culture, history, and personal development.
- The UK has an economical architecture industry and a lot of job opportunities.
Types of Master’s in Architecture Programs in the UK
Masters in architecture have different specializations within a theoretical, design, and imaginative course framework. These practitioner MArch courses in the UK are designed for innovation, culture, and sustainability.
Urban Planning
A Masters of Architecture in Urban Planning is important for the sustainable growth of cities. Architects design urban structures, infrastructure, and landscapes for society and environment.
- Relevant profiles: Town planner
- Tuition fees: 11000 Pounds (INR 12 lakhs)
Landscape Architecture
The masters in Landscape Architecture in UK program equips students with the knowledge of building natural and ecological designs. Landscape architecture deals with biodiversity, climate change, land degradation, and geography.
- Relevant profiles: Assistant landscape architect, Landscape planner
- Tuition fees: 25000 pounds (INR 27 lakhs)
Sustainable Architecture
The masters in sustainable architecture in UK program deals with research-based and technical environmental structures. It is designed for the less negative impact of infrastructure on the environment.
- Relevant profiles: Sustainable architect, Environmental designer
- Tuition fees: 26,350 pounds (INR 29 lakhs)
Computational Architecture
These architects use computational methods for design, algorithms, models, digital design, and computation. The course teaches programming skills and advanced theory.
- Relevant Profiles: Computation Architects, Computation Designer
- Tuition Fees: 30700 pounds (INR 34 lakhs)
Architectural History
This course is more than just the work, design, or structure of buildings. It is about the social and historical processes from the ancient to modern times.
- Relevant profiles: Architectural Historian, Historic Architecture Preservation Manager
- Tuition Fees: 34400 pounds (INR 38 lakhs)
Architectural Technology
This program is about the technical aspects of construction and design. It studies international practices in architectural technology, construction law, and design projects.
- Relevant profiles: Architectural technologist, Architectural designer, project manager
- Tuition Fees: 10900 pounds (INR 12 lakhs)
Eligibility Requirements
Most MArch programs require a minimum of 60 percent in bachelor’s degree. However, Indian students are advised to have a 70 percent for a competitive edge.
- Second-class degree in architecture or similar qualification that should be valid for an ARB/RIBA part 1.
- 60% to 70% in bachelor’s degree or 2:1 in architecture or 8 out of 10 GPA in Architecture Colleges
- Academic transcripts
- IELTS overall score 6.5 to 7.0
- 6 to 12 months of work experience
- Portfolio of work, design, or coursework
- Statement of Purpose
- Letter of Recommendation
Top UK Universities for Masters in Architecture
The teaching methodology, course structure, rich history, broad range of course modules, and expertise in architecture education in the UK are world-renowned. It is one of the best destinations in the world for studying for a Masters in Architecture in 2025. The best architecture colleges in the UK for Masters are given below(2):
| QS MArch Global Ranking | University | Tuition Fees |
| 1 | University College London | 31,100 pounds |
| 5 | Manchester School of Architecture | 30000 pounds |
| 10 | University of Cambridge | 34,546 pounds |
| 28 | Oxford Brookes University | 17,950 pounds |
| 38 | University of Sheffield | 29100 pounds |
| 51- 100 | Cardiff University | 14100 pounds |
| 51-100 | Loughborough University | 28600 pounds |
| 51-100 | Newcastle University | 27100 pounds |
| 51-100 | University of Edinburgh | 34800 pounds |
| 51-100 | University of Bath | 18400 pounds |
| 51-100 | University of Nottingham | 27,150 pounds |
1) University College London
UCL is ranked 9th in the 2025 University rankings. It is renowned for its research excellence framework. The architecture provides students with professional skills, innovative course content, and diverse learning methodologies.
| Address | University College London, Gower Street, London
United Kingdom |
| Year Founded | 1826 |
| Duration of MArch course | 2 years |
| Programs offered | MArch, MSc architecture, Landscape architecture, Historic urban environments, computation |
| Phone number | +44 (0) 20 7679 2000 |
| Official Site | UCL – London’s Global University |
| Exams required | IELTS |
2) Manchester School of Architecture
The school has various accreditations like the Royal Institute of British Architects and Architects Registration Board. The architecture course covers global and contemporary architecture and multidisciplinary skills.
| Address | Manchester Technology Centre, Oxford Road, United Kingdom |
| Year Founded | 1996 |
| Duration of MArch course | 2 years |
| Programs offered | Landscape, urbanism, contemporary, MArch |
| Phone number | +441612471000 |
| Official Site | Manchester School of Architecture (msa.ac.UK) |
| Exams required | IELTS |
3) University of Cambridge
The architecture course studies architecture from a historical, environmental, and economic perspective. Design and research methods are used to study urban architecture, technology, and sustainability.
| Address | The Old Schools, Trinity Lane, Cambridge, United Kingdom |
| Year Founded | 1209 |
| Duration of MArch course | 21 months |
| Programs offered | Urban studies, history of architecture |
| Phone number | +44 (0)1223 337733 |
| Official Site | University of Cambridge |
| Exams required | IELTS |
4) Oxford Brookes University
The university is top ranked in 21 subjects in the world. It offers innovation and excellence for real estate, property development, urban design and world class research.
| Address | Oxford Brookes University, Headington Campus, Oxford, United Kingdom |
| Year Founded | 1865 |
| Duration of MArch course | 12 months |
| Programs offered | MArch, applied design, interior design |
| Phone number | +44 1865484204 |
| Official Site | Oxford Brookes University |
| Exams required | IELTS |
5) University of Sheffield
The courses provide students with social and environmental responsibility in implementation, innovative live designs, and urban master plans. It teaches research methods, the history and theory of urban design, and much more. Students work with professional architects and faculty.
| Address | Western Bank, Sheffield, United Kingdom |
| Year Founded | 1905 |
| Duration of MArch course | 1 year |
| Programs offered | Architecture and landscape, architectural design, sustainable architecture |
| Phone number | +44 114 222 2000 |
| Official Site | The University of Sheffield |
| Exams required | IELTS |
6) Cardiff University
The courses prepare students with urban design knowledge, professional qualifications, design of complex buildings, and architectural practice. Students learn about the professional and legal aspects of an architect’s work.
| Address | Park Place, Cardiff, United Kingdom |
| Year Founded | 1883 |
| Duration of MArch course | 2 years |
| Programs offered | Urban design, computation, architectural design, environmental design |
| Phone number | +44 (0)29 2087 4000. |
| Official Site | Cardiff University |
| Exams required | IELTS |
7) Loughborough University
It is a top 10 UK university in the Complete University Guide 2017-2025. It has been rated 5 stars for research excellence and the best university for sports-related subjects by the QS scheme.
| Address | Epinal Way, Loughborough, Leicestershire, United Kingdom |
| Year Founded | 1909 |
| Duration of MArch course | 2 years |
| Programs offered | Master of Architecture |
| Phone number | +441509222222 |
| Official Site | Loughborough University (lboro.ac.uk) |
| Exams required | IELTS |
8) Newcastle University
The Masters in Architecture course equips students with imaginative designs and challenging theories. The program covers research, history, and practices in architecture. The college is in the Global top 140 universities by Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2023.
| Address | Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom |
| Year Founded | 1834 |
| Duration of MArch course | 2 years |
| Programs offered | Landscape, MArch, naval architecture, advanced architecture design |
| Phone number | +44 (0)191 208 6000 |
| Official Site | Newcastle University (ncl.ac.uk) |
| Exams required | IELTS |
9) Edinburgh University
The MArch program teaches experiments, strategies, urban and contemporary architecture, and new approaches to architecture. The course is taught in lectures and seminars, focusing on cultural outcomes and student leadership.
| Address | Argyle House, floor H West Lady Lawson Street, Edinburgh, United Kingdom |
| Year Founded | 1583 |
| Duration of MArch course | 2 years |
| Programs offered | History, landscape, MArch, Engineering |
| Phone number | +44 (0)131 650 1000 |
| Official Site | The University of Edinburgh |
| Exams required | IELTS |
10) University of Bath
The program equips students with management, design theories, architectural knowledge, and practical experience. Students attend lectures on architectural history, urban design, science, and theory.
| Address | Claverton Down, Bath, United Kingdom |
| Year Founded | 1886 |
| Duration of MArch course | 2 years |
| Programs offered | Masters of architecture |
| Phone number | 44 01225388388 |
| Official Site | University of Bath |
| Exams required | IELTS |
11) University of Nottingham
The university is ranked in the top 20 in the UK and 108th in the world by the QS World Rankings 2025. The institution has 47,000 students from 150 countries.
| Address | University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, United Kingdom |
| Year Founded | 1881 |
| Duration of MArch course | 1 year |
| Programs offered | Advanced architecture design, sustainable urban design MArch, renewable energy, and architecture |
| Phone number | +44 01159 515151 |
| Official Site | University of Nottingham |
| Exams required | IELTS |
University Deadlines for Masters in Architecture in UK
Majority of the applications for UK Masters of Architecture in 2024 are closed now. 2025 applications for MArch are open for January and September.
| University | Application deadlines |
| University of Liverpool | 29 January 2025 |
| University of Westminster | Rolling |
| University of Nottingham | 4 August 2025 |
| University of Sheffield | 1 September 2025 |
| University College London | 22 February 2025 |
| Manchester School of Architecture | 5 April 2025 |
| University of Bath | 4 March 2025 |
Read More: Upcoming Intakes in UK in 2025
Cost of Masters in Architecture in UK
The cost of living, tuition fees, and other expenses varies from individual to individual, depending on program, location, and accommodation.
Tuition Fees
The average tuition fee for a Masters in Architecture in UK is 12000 to 25000 pounds (13 lakhs to 27 lakhs INR).
Cost of Living
An international student in the UK pays around 1300 to 1400 pounds (1,44,510 to 1,55,626 INR) a month in London and or 900 to 1300 pounds (1 lakh to 1,44,510 INR) in other cities.
| Category | Cost in pounds (London) | Cost in pounds (other cities) |
| Accommodation | 750 | 554 |
| Bills | 140 | 80 |
| Groceries | 155 | 116 |
| Transport | 103 | 54 |
| Going out | 150 | 80 |
Read more in detail: How Much Money Is Required to Study in UK?
Affordable University for MArch in UK
There are several universities in the UK offering an affordable Masters in Architecture in UK fees. The fee is much less than the average tuition fee in top architecture institutions.
- University of Central Lancashire (17,900 pounds): A model workshop and studio learning of design innovation theories in architecture and urbanism.
- Leeds Beckett University (17,500 pounds): Study the latest design theories and methods in urban design and MArch.
- University of Westminster (15,400 pounds): Study innovative designs and practice of architecture at a convenient cost.
- Derby University (14,900 pounds): Students have access to guest lectures, important research, and scientific theory.
Scholarships for Masters in Architecture in UK
MArch Scholarships UK is based on academic merits, achievements, and skills. These scholarships fund full or partial tuition fees or award an amount of money.
| Scholarship | Value | Criteria |
| Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) part 1 and 2 Bursary | 1000 to 6000 pounds per term | Academic and professional performance, financial needs, determination for future goals |
| Architecture Academic Excellence Scholarships York University | 1000 pounds | AAA in A-level |
| International Student Scholarship Oxford Brookes University | 2000 pounds | Offer from university and paid the deposit |
| Chevening Masters Scholarship UK | 18,000 pounds | Leadership, intellectual potential |
| Cambridge Trust UK Masters Scholarship | 12000 pounds | Leadership, diversity, academic and professional performance |
Read More: UK Scholarships for Indian Students
Jobs and Salaries after MArch in the UK
| Position | Average Salary | Job Description |
| Urban Designer | 38 lakhs INR | Urban designers build and plan physical places for the development of cities. |
| Project Architect | 42 lakhs INR | Project architectures oversee the development and construction of a design. |
| Civic Engineer | 39 lakhs INR | Responsible for the construction and design of an infrastructure with a positive impact on the environment, like highways and airports. |
| Interior Designer | 44 lakhs INR | Designing the interior parts of a building for a healthy and pleasing living space. |
| Architectural Technologist | 54 lakhs INR | Deals with building plans, technical design, and architectural solutions. |
Read More: What are the Job Opportunities in the UK for Indians?
How to Apply for a UK Student Visa?
You must prepare your documents and details carefully before proceeding. This is necessary for your application to be approved.
- Apply online on the UK government website.
- Provide details like CAS number and license number.
- Pay the application fee and immigration health surcharge.
- Submit biometrics and documents at the application center.
- Once your visa is processed, your passport will be sent back to you.
UK Student Visa Document Checklist
You can apply for a UK student Visa on the official Gov.UK website of the British government. The fee for a UK student Visa is 490 pounds. You can pay online, in cash, or demand a draft at the bank. To secure a UK Student Visa, you will need the following documents:
- A valid passport
- Travel documentation
- Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies or CAS from your MArch institution
- Proof that you have financial resources to fund your living costs and tuition fees during your course. Proof of funds should be at least 1334 pounds a month.
- ATAS certificate, if required
- Tuberculosis test results
- Written consent from your sponsor if you have been awarded a scholarship
- English Proficiency Test
- Passport-size color photographs
FAQs
Is the UK good for a Masters in Architecture?
Yes. The architecture industry of the UK is leading globally and architecture studies offers a variety of courses with advanced learning methodology. Masters in Architecture in UK is a renowned qualification and is in demand all around the world.
What are the top recruiters of Masters In Architecture in UK?
Top employers for Masters in architecture in UK are Broadway Malyan, Zaha Hadid Architects, Foster and Partners, Adamson Associates Architect, AHMM, Hawkins\Brown, and Heatherwick Studio.
What is the duration of MArch in the UK?
The full-time course is one to two years. Part-time courses are for 3 to 4 years.
What are the 2025 application deadlines in UK architecture Universities?
The application deadlines for September 2025 are:
- University of Liverpool – 29 January 2025
- University of Westminster – Rolling
- University of Nottingham – 4 August 2025
- University of Sheffield – 1 September 2025
- University College London – 22 February 2025
- Manchester School of Architecture – 5 April 2025
Can I pursue a Masters in Architecture without BArch?
Yes. Students can pursue MArch in any previous qualification in related field like liberal arts or civil engineering. Some colleges have entry requirements of any related field in Bachelors. Check official university website for details.
