Architecture can be seen as a series of relationships characterised by issues of 'place', ‘interface’ and ‘exchange’.
Place, Interface, Exchange
The undergraduate course in Architecture seeks to position your studies at the centre of this dynamic field through exploring connections between disciplines, systems, concepts, and people (the 'interface).
It is supported by a structured dialogue amongst students, tutors, practitioners, theorists and specialists (the ‘exchange’).
Your design and research activity will be embeded in real environmental conditions dealing with scales of neighbourhoods, city, regional, and global networks - with the city of Birmingham as your starting point (the 'place').
Meta-Themes
The course considers meta-themes of ‘habitation’, ‘production’ and ‘mobility’ over the three year programme, building our students awareness of contemporary conditions, with confidence and ability in meeting the challenges of the 21st century. The first year is taught with Year 1 students of BA (Hons) Landscape Architecture as a common foundation year, with increasing specialisation throughout the duration of the course.
Each academic year is split between Design Studio, Cultural Context and Technology, all interconnected to the year's the meta-theme - providing a comprehensive and unified learning experience across all aspects of architecture and landscape.
Key Facts
- Accredited by the Royal Institute of British Architects, allowing you to achieve RIBA Part 1 exemption – on doing so, you’re fully encouraged and supported to apply for employment in practice.
- After a year out, you can apply for RIBA Part 2 exemption, then possibly progress to our PGDip Architectural Practice (RIBA Part 3) - the full range of courses needed to achieve professional qualification.
- Well-established connections with national architecture practices help you find appropriate work experience while studying and employment after you graduate.
- Birmingham School of Architecture celebrated its centenary in 2009; one hundred years of responding creatively to the challenges and opportunities of professional landscape architecture.
- Follow in the footsteps of BIAD’s Jeremy Whall and Li Shung Yeung, who won the BA (Hons) Architecture, Caring for Older People International Student Design Competition in 2009.
Why Choose Us?
- Birmingham Institute of Art and Design (BIAD) is one of the UK’s largest and most prestigious institutes of art, architecture and design education – our arts and crafts heritage dates back to 1843.
- A multi-million pound investment into facilities now gives you a creative technological environment to rival any studio in the country.
- Use advanced digital studios for rapid prototyping and digital production, as well as drawing workshops for observational and technical drawing, CAD and digital visual communication skills.
- Throughout, you’re encouraged to combine experience of the practical world of landscape architecture with creativity and innovation in the studio.
- Second year elective modules mean you can share experiences and knowledge with fellow students and professionals, expanding your artistic awareness to aspects of jewellery, fine art, media and graphics, fashion or 3D design.
- The Times Good University Guide 2010 ranks our Art and Design research in the UK’s top 10 – the highest-ranked institution outside London.
- Birmingham Institute of Art and Design is ranked 14 out of 87 universities in the Guardian League Table.
- In the latest Research Assessment Exercise, a total of 60% of BIAD research was judged to be ‘world-leading’ or internationally excellent – this course is integral to design and research activity within BIAD and beyond.
- The research we carry out has a real-world purpose, and new discoveries always feed back into the teaching and insight you receive.
- Our distinguished staff are well established art and design professionals who provide a remarkable range of expertise – a quality of teaching reflected in the achievements of BIAD’s students and our high profile alumni.
- Almost 80% of respondents to the National Student Survey praised the enthusiasm of Creative Arts and Design staff, and the clear way they explained their subject.
- Creativity and innovation makes the air crackle – the 4,000-strong student community you’ll join at BIAD sees a challenge as a chance, an issue as an opportunity, and knows that there’s something beyond every horizon.
Download the Course Programme Specification
Entry Requirements
Secondary education qualifications
At least five GCSE passes at Grade C or above, including, without exception, English and Maths, and a mixture of Science/Maths and Humanities/Arts subjects. GCE/VCE, A Level tariff – 340 points [AAB] from a mixture of Science/Maths and Humanities/Arts subjects, including one 12-unit award or two six-unit awards.
The following subjects are preferred:
- History/Geography/English/Languages
- Double award in Science or separate Science such as Physics, Biology or Chemistry
- Maths
- Sociology/Philosophy/Psychology
- Art/Design/Music
The following subjects are not accepted:
- General studies
- NVQ (National vocational qualifications) and advanced modern apprenticeship.
Further education qualifications
- BTEC Level 3 National Diploma in Construction (and Built Environment)
- BTEC Level 3 National Diploma in Art and Design
- BTEC Foundation Diploma in Art and Design
- Distinction (285 points) plus GCE/VCE A and/or AS Levels in subjects other than art with at least one in which assessment is essay based (see recommendations above) to 55 points.
- Merit (225 points) plus GCE/VCE A and/or AS Levels in subjects other than art with at least one in which assessment is essay based (see recommendations above) to 115 points.
- Pass (165 points) plus GCE/VCE A and/or AS Levels in subjects other than art with at least one in which assessment is essay based (see recommendations above) to 175 points.
- Advanced Diploma in Construction and Built Environment
- Advanced Diploma in Creative and Media
- Advanced Diploma in Environmental and Land-based Studies (commences 2009)
- Advanced Diploma in Manufacturing and Product Design (commences 2009)
- ASL (Additional & Specialist Learning) plus Progression Diploma in above subject equivalent to 340 points.
Higher education qualifications
Course currently exempt from ELQ status
NOT accepted:
BTEC Higher National Diploma (HND)
BTEC Higher National Certificate (HNC)
Foundation Degrees
Mature students
Applications from mature students (+21) with alternative qualifications and/or work experience will be considered on their merits. As a minimum, applicants should have a portfolio demonstrating their creative abilities in a range of media.
International qualifications
International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma: 28 points
Applications from international applicants with equivalent qualifications to 340 points are welcome.
Non-English speakers require require one of the following:
- IELTS – minimum overall score of 6.0, with 6.0 in writing and no less than 5.5 in the remaining three skills.
- TOEFL – Band scores of: Listening – 17. Reading – 18. Speaking – 20. Writing – 20.
- Pearson – Band scores of: Listening – 51. Reading – 51. Speaking – 51. Writing – 53.
A digital portfolio will be required, as specified below.
Portfolio Guidance
The invitation to submit a digital portfolio is your opportunity to demonstrate the breadth and depth of your creative abilities, and to illustrate your interests in and commitment to the study of architecture. You are not expected to demonstrate experience of architectural design, other than through, for example, sketchbooks, carefully considered photography or (images of) model making in the consideration of spatial awareness or exploration of an idea. Experimentation and expression in a range of media is to be encouraged and composition of text and images should be treated as an exercise in graphic communication.
Don't meet the entry requirements for this course?
Have you considered our Foundation Diploma in Art and Design in preparation for studying at degree level?
We run one of the best courses of its kind in the country, helping you be more informed, confident and effective in your study.
The Foundation Diploma gives you a wide-ranging introduction to Art and Design, leading to pathway specific projects relevant to your chosen area of study.
Successful completion could enable you to progress to one of our Undergraduate courses.
Application Details
FT - UCAS Code K100 / PT - Direct to Faculty
Search for this course on UCAS.
UCAS Information
The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) is a UK organisation responsible for managing applications to university and college.
UK, EU and international students applying for most undergraduate degree courses in the UK will need to apply through UCAS.
You submit an application via the UCAS website with a list of up to five courses. All choices are confidential during the application process so universities and colleges considering an application cannot see your other choices. Applications must be completed by mid-January of the year that you wish to start university.
You can monitor the progress of your application using the UCAS Apply system.
Fees and Finance
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Fees for students from the UK or EU countries?
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| Start | Mode | Duration | Award | Fees |
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| Sep 2013 | FT | 3 years | BA (Hons) | £8,200 per year |
| Sep 2013 | PT | 4 years | BA (Hons) | £1,025 per 15-credit module |
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Fees for students from non-EU countries?
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| Start | Mode | Duration | Award | Fees |
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| Sep 2013 | FT | 3 years | BA (Hons) | £10,100 per year |
The University reserves the right to increase fees broadly in line with increases in inflation, or to reflect changes in government funding policies or changes agreed by Parliament.
Additional costs
You will need to pay for materials, printing (subsidised rates), UK and non-UK field trips, a good computer and a camera. Advice will be given at the start of the course. A pair of safety boots would also be beneficial.
BIAD Loyalty Bursary 2013/14
For BIAD students studying BTEC Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Art & Design
Birmingham Institute of Art and Design is offering a loyalty bursary of £500 to students currently studying on the BTEC Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Art & Design who progress to a BIAD undergraduate programme.
The bursary payment will be made on successful completion of 120 credits at Level 4 of the chosen undergraduate programme and is for Level 4 studies only.
It is in addition to any grant / tuition fee funding that you may receive from Student Finance England.
All applicants must meet the criteria set out below:
Criteria
1. You must have studied and been awarded a BTEC Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Art & Design from Birmingham City University.
2. You must be progressing without interruption directly from the Foundation Diploma in Art & Design to a BIAD undergraduate programme.
3. You must have a Home or EU fee status.
4. You must have successfully completed 120 Level 4 credits on the BIAD undergraduate programme.
5. If you withdraw from or interrupt your studies on the undergraduate programme you will not be eligible for the bursary.
6. The loyalty bursary is not available to students entering any part-time undergraduate programmes in BIAD.
This loyalty bursary will be reviewed each year and can be withdrawn by the Faculty at any point in time.
For further details please contact our Admissions team on +44(0)121 331 5150
Financial Options and Advice
We have deliberately tried to set fees that reflect the cost of course delivery in order to help our students avoid debt.
Full-time students won't have to pay for tuition fees until after their studies - there are government tuition fee loans available. If you are a full-time student, after leaving university you will start to pay back your loan once you are earning over £21,000 a year, at a rate of nine per cent on any income above £21,000. So if you were earning £25,000, you would pay back nine per cent of £4,000, or £30 per month.
Money Saving Expert Martin Lewis offers key facts on fees, loans and grants:
Financial Support
We offer further information on possible financial support. This includes the type of loans, grants and scholarships available both from the government and from Birmingham City University.
University Approach to Employability
Expertly woven into our curriculum and work experience opportunities, and underpinned by a diligent approach to career preparation and the close involvement of professional bodies, the University views employment as one of the principal rewards for a student's ambition, application and academic achievement. It's why the University is one of the country's top 30 universities* for placing students in graduate-level employment.
Our close links with business and the professions mean that our courses are always relevant, up-to-date and meet the exact needs of the current marketplace. Wherever possible, we involve employers in planning the curriculum, while many of our lecturers come from and maintain their links with industry, ensuring they are up to speed with the latest developments.
Employability will be an integral outcome of your studies.
* Sunday Times University Guide 2012
Further Studies
As a graduate of the course, you will be encouraged to apply for employment as an assistant in architectural practice and, on completion of your year out, will be invited to apply for the Postgraduate Diploma in Architecture (RIBA Part 2 exemption). We also offer a Postgraduate Diploma in Architectural Practice (RIBA Part 3 exemption), giving you the opportunity to undertake your entire architectural education at the School of Architecture.
Alternatively, this is an excellent qualification for progression into related design fields, journalism or academia.
For further information on courses Tel: +44(0)121 331 5595 or go direct to the courses section of the website.
Full Time
“All tutors are extremely knowledgeable and are always available to help when in need of some advice on work. All work to be completed is clearly set out at the beginning of each term and in further detail through the module brief. As a student this helps me to clearly understand what I need to complete in order to fulfil the requirements of the course.”
BA (Hons) Architecture student
About KIS data
From September 2012, all universities and colleges are publishing standardised information for all undergraduate courses in the form of a Key Information Set (KIS). The KIS data is designed to meet the needs of prospective students and allow for informed decision-making when choosing a university course.
Putting our students first
We pride ourselves on our student satisfaction levels which have risen from 73 per cent to 83 per cent between 2010 and 2012. Our dedication to improving the student experience is illustrated by our award-winning student engagement, our close links with business and industry and our £180 million investment in new facilities.
One of
the ways in which we enhance the student experience is through the provision of
exciting work placement opportunities. BA (Hons) Architecture student Haiqal Che
Zulhikam successfully came through a tough four-stage appointment process to secure
one of just a handful of summer internships with leading practice Foster +
Partners.
Employability facts
91.1% of leavers from the School of Architecture & Landscape who responded to the survey entered employment (and/or further study), earning an average full-time salary of £17,700. Employers hiring leavers from the School include APEC Architects and K4 Architects, in positions such as Part 1 Architectural Assistant.
Working with your Students’ Union
Improving student satisfaction is a priority commitment shared by both Birmingham City University and its Students’ Union. In its strategic planning, the Union has pledged to be more accessible, more relevant and provide more opportunity to engage with a diverse student community.
The Students’ Union is already a key stakeholder in supporting an excellent teaching experience at Birmingham City University, through joint projects such as the Extra Mile Teaching Awards and the Student Rep scheme, which allows students to share their ideas on how they are taught.
As Birmingham City University moves towards a two campus strategy where it can better support enhanced learning and student support facilities across a two-mile radius, the Students’ Union will also be better able to implement its commitment to improve communication and engage with its valued student membership.
Course Structure
The first year of the course provides a broad foundation for the study of architecture and landscape architecture in the context of the ‘urbanised field’, as well as the physical and ideological relationship between them, informed by the theme of habitation. Principles are established in reading and interpreting the non-designed and designed environment, sustainable development and technology, supported by an introduction to a wide range of representational media.
This leads to an exploration of the role of policy in the formation of urban and architectural constructs in the second year and the idea of the architect as co-ordinator or facilitator in the act of construction, informed by the theme of production. Techniques and methods in sustainable development and technology are studied and evaluated, complemented by the elective programme (Co.Lab), which enables you to engage with design and production practices across BIAD and external clients.
The final year considers the architectural physical and cultural context from the local to the global scale. At the same time, the course looks towards cross-disciplinary practice to test innovative approaches at diverse scales through issues such as the study of dynamic cities and understanding the implications of new digital technologies, informed by the theme of mobility. Strategies in sustainable development and technology are developed and tested against architectural projects. Employability and entrepreneurial skills are developed in special 'working' seminars to prepare you for professional employment.
Modules
Year 1 (Level 4) meta-theme: Habitation
Design Studio 4-1 (30 credits)
Design Studio 4-2 (30 credits)
Cultural Context 4-1 (15 credits)
Cultural Context 4-2 (15 credits) - study trip
Technology 4-1 (15 credits)
Technology 4-2 (15 credits)
Year 2 (Level 5) meta-theme: Production
Design Studio 5-1 (30 credits)
Design Studio 5-2 (30 credits)
Cultural Context 5-1 (15 credits)
Cultural Context 5-2 (15 credits) - including management, practice and law
Technology 5-1 (15 credits)
Practice + Collaboration 5-1 (15 credits) - Co.Lab, see industry page
Year 3 (Level 6) meta-theme: Mobility
Design Studio 6-1 (30 credits)
Design Studio 6-2 (30 credits)
Cultural Context 6-1 (15 credits)
Cultural Context 6-2 (15 credits) - study trip
Technology 6-1 (15 credits)
Technology 6-2 (15 credits)
Additional Activities
Student Experience
Teaching is practiced at the school department, but more frequently, we take students out of this environment to engage in the learning of architecture, landscape and urbanism by participating with the context as well as studying it.
The course is just one part of the learning experience. Students are not just engaged, but become part of the school and part of the architectural community in the city. Through www.architecturewm.com, all network partners provide a rich and diverse selection of wider social and academic activities.
Assessment Methods
There is continuous assessment of project work, as well as assignments and coursework dedicated to subject units. Studio work is assessed through project group critiques and portfolio reviews. Progress in formal, lecture-based subjects is recorded through continuous assessment, written work and examinations throughout the year.
The exchange of ideas and knowledge among student groups and tutors occurs through a variety of media and environments, most significantly via studio events, study trips, workshops, lectures and seminars. Informal and formal feedback is provided through group work and tutorial guidance as part of a shared learning experience that aims to encourage responsible, self-motivated practice, realising your critical capacity.
Alessandro Columbano
Lecturer
Alessandro is a lecturer at the Birmingham School of Architecture. He is also leading Co.LAB, a collaborative organisation within the school that integrates teaching with practice through live projects, design, research and consultancy.
Prior to joining the university, Alessandro has worked in architectural and research practices in Manchester and London, with experience in evidence-based design and historical refurbishments. He graduated from the Manchester School of Architecture with a distinction in both postgraduate architecture and MA Urbanism prior to working as an independent artist.
As anviere, a self-identified design guise, he has developed a portfolio of site-specific installations and artworks commenting on the subversive qualities of our physical environments.
Alessandro brings these characteristics forward to his teaching as an academic and researcher; taking an active role in the discussion of architectural pedagogy, urban theory and the contemporary vernacular. These are applied by engaging the influential sphere of the school upon the physical network it has created within the city.
Elizabeth Clayton
The Course:
I chose to study at Birmingham City University because of the relaxed environment portrayed by the department of Architecture on my Open Day visit. I liked their attitude towards self-directed learning and their hands-on educational techniques. The department also promoted a strong identity of students learning from one another which in turn created great camaraderie and a positive, supportive environment.
The University:
I was based at the Birmingham Institute of Art and Design, and enjoyed being in close proximity with other Art and Design based subjects and the colourful and inspiring environment with students' work regularly displayed. I liked the evening lectures with visiting speakers and practitioners that the School of Architecture put on in association with the Birmingham Architectural Association. I still enjoy attending these even though I'm no longer at the School.
The City:
It's great to study in a city. When I first arrived I was invigorated by the people and my surroundings, especially as I made my way back to my student digs on an evening. For studying architecture, Birmingham is a great place, as you can walk the city and experience many different built environments, from the Bullring to Brindleyplace, from St Pauls to Ladywood, from the Digbeth Branch Canal to the Chinese Quarter, and many more.
The Individual:
I'm currently working as an Assistant Architect at Axis Design Architects Ltd in Birmingham. I got this job part way through my degree, working during my final summer at university, part-time through my final year and started full-time when I graduated. I intend to continue my professional and academic development to become an Architect. I have aspirations not only to practice but also to make an academic contribution, through writing or teaching or both.
Holly Rose Doron
Holly was undecided about which degree programme to undertake, leaving it until the last minute to make her decision. She accepted a place at BIAD at the eleventh hour and hasn't look back since.
"Throughout college I was convinced I was going to become a graphic designer. I had considered architecture but thought it involved tons of repetitive drawing. But if I went into graphic design I would have missed science, history, and writing – architecture has all these extra elements as well as design. I kept asking myself: if we had to migrate to the moon, who would they rather take? A graphic designer, or an architect? I made the decision late in the summer, and was luckily accepted into the Birmingham School of Architecture two weeks later. I’ve never looked back.
"Birmingham has an excellent architectural community, connecting both students and professionals, enabling the School to provide lectures, presentations and even one-on-one tutorials with many distinguished architects, both local and national. The combination of knowledgeable staff with varying specialities and students with diverse ages, nationalities, and educational backgrounds is the key to the School's delivery of a rich and fulfilling learning experience.
"The School's emphasis on technological and contextual theory enabled me to produce a design that received the Students of Excellence 2009 Award for Advanced Urban Solutions from Birmingham City Council. The staff here nourished my interest in community architecture, and enabled me to obtain a placement in a practice that specialises in designing for community groups. I couldn’t think of a more rewarding end to a great three years."
Enquiries
Prospective students from the UK or EU
- Take a look at our Frequently Asked Questions for answers to a range of questions about our courses and studying here.
- If you need further help, you can contact the Course Enquiries Team online by using the Course Enquiry Form.
- Alternatively, call us on +44 (0)121 331 5595.
Prospective students from non-EU countries
- International enquirers from non-EU countries may enquire via the International Enquiry Form.
- Alternatively, call us +44 (0)121 331 6714.
Prospectus
For an overview of our undergraduate courses and range of other information order a printed Prospectus or download a PDF of our 2014/15 Prospectus (16MB).