Course Outline
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)
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.
Features of the course include:
- Continual construction site visits to the new BIAD Campus building with contractor Willmott Dixon
- 'Into Work' seminars to prepare students for graduate employment
- Cultural Context study trips every year in term 2
- Evening Open Lectures by leading professionals, with past speakers including CJ Lim and Martha Schwarz
- Co.Lab and other live projects/competitions where students are able to produce work for real clients
- Be informed about the latest events and news from www.architecturewm.com
- Organise and participate in student-led activities with the Student Architecture Society
- Birmingham School of Architecture Events, an annual period where students across all years work together on various projects
Assessments
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.