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School of Architecture, Computing and Engineering

BSc (Hons) Architecture

BSc (Hons) Full-time 3 years

This RIBA-accredited degree provides you with the knowledge and skills you need to excel in a wide range of associated design careers, including becoming a professional architect. 

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This RIBA-accredited degree provides you with the knowledge and skills you need to excel in a wide range of associated design careers, including becoming a professional architect. 

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BSc (Hons)
Start date(s)
14 September 2026
UCAS Code
K100
Course specifications
View course spec
Course length
Full-time (3 years)
Campus location
University: Springfield Campus
School
School of Architecture, Computing and Engineering
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During my undergraduate degree, I explored a wide range of design approaches through sketching, model making, and 3D software, supported by highly engaged lecturers and a strong studio culture. The open, collaborative environment and excellent facilities made it an inspiring place to develop and prepare for professional practice.
Hardeep Ratna, BSc Architecture

Why choose this course?

97.6% Student Satisfaction with teaching on this course - Best in West Midlands

National Student Survey, 2025

This course is accredited by:

  • RIBA
  • Architects Registration Board (ARB)

A BSc (Hons) Architecture degree provides you with the knowledge and skills you need to excel in a wide range of associated design careers. Take your first step towards becoming a professional architect by completing this degree, which is prescribed by the Architects Registration Board (ARB) and validated by RIBA as a Part 1 qualification.*

Experience a professional design studio in our new purpose-built facilities, which include dedicated studio spaces and individual workspaces. In this course, you will get the opportunity to collaborate with our passionate and supportive staff and develop your architectural and professional skills. You’ll learn through design projects that reflect real-life, client-driven architectural work.

By studying BSc (Hons) Architecture, you’ll develop key communication skills, such as hand drawing and model making, as well as skills in using professional industry software. You will also get hands-on experience with the latest architecture and design technologies such as 3D laser scanning, VR tools, and 3D printing – designed to prepare you for employment. With our wide network of collaborating companies, this degree gives you the opportunity to meet future employers, and you will also have the opportunity to showcase your work at our annual Degree Show.

We help enhance your experience and knowledge of architecture with visits to major national and international cities. Past trips have included London, Berlin, Rome, Paris, and Dubai.


*The Architects Registration Board (ARB) will discontinue the prescription of all Part 1 qualifications (including all UK undergraduate Architecture degrees) from 31 December 2027. This is a nationwide change affecting all university Architecture qualifications in the UK and is not specific to Wolverhampton. If you are scheduled to complete your course in June 2028 or thereafter, you will still obtain a BSc (Hons) Architecture degree; however, the 'Part 1' exemption will no longer be applicable or necessary for progression in your architectural career. Consequently, ARB recognition will be granted upon the attainment of a subsequent master’s qualification, facilitating alternatives routes into the profession.

What's unique about this course?

  • Accredited by RIBA
  • Accredited by the Architects Registration Board (ARB)
  • Exceptional teaching quality, rated at 90.5% The Times Good University Guide
  • Taught in Springfield Super Campus
  • Access to double height architectural studio space
  • Access to state-of-the-art VR and AR technology

What happens on the course?

Our BSc (Hons) Architecture offers a unique educational experience grounded in design, technology, and science. 

Our mission is to inform good design that improves people’s lives, whilst minimising the detriment to our earth’s ecosystems. Design is at the heart of the curriculum which then underpins modules including design studio, history and theory of architecture, urbanism, building science, sustainability, structures, construction, and professional practice. There is a strong emphasis on understanding the context, materiality, and function of design. Projects progress in scale and complexity, beginning with the human scale in the first year, urban scale in the second year, and holistic in the third year. 

This approach provides a broad education in architecture, with a clear pathway to guide those transitioning from school and college to become self-motivated, fully autonomous learners within higher education. Our philosophy is focused on welcoming and valuing distinct views that broaden each of our own perspectives through critical thinking and respectful debate. There is no one singular style of architecture attached to the school.

 

Year One (Level 4)
During your first year you will develop the fundamental skills, knowledge, and confidence required for architectural study, with the design studio at the heart of the learning experience. Projects are rooted in the human scale and focus on developing core principles of design thinking. You will acquire the skills to produce ideas in response to a brief and its context, articulate architectural proposals through drawing and model-making, and begin understanding how design decisions are informed by history and theory. Alongside studio work, you will be introduced to materials, construction, and structural principles that underpin architectural design.
Model built by a first year architecture studentSketch drawn by a first year architecture studentArtwork created by a first year architecture studentGraphic created by a first year architecture student 


Year Two (Level 5)
In the second year, you will develop and test your design skills through a sustained studio environment, progressing to urban-scale challenges. You will enhance your technical integration by studying climate and environmental design, building science, construction, and structural systems at a deeper level. Studio projects explicitly link design purpose to technology and urban thinking, encouraging you to consider the relationship between architecture, the city, and society.

Graphic created by a second year architecture studentModel built by a second year architecture studentGraphic created by a second year architecture studentImage drawn by a second year architecture student
 
Year Three (Level 6)
In your final undergraduate year, you will embrace a more independent, outward-focused methodology integrating your knowledge into a holistic, comprehensive design stance. In conjunction with a major studio project, you will undertake a dissertation and cultivate an enhanced understanding of sustainable/zero carbon design, comprehensive design resolution, and the professional context of architecture through practice and management.

Graphic created by a third year architecture studentImage created by a third year architecture studentImages created by a third year architecture studentSketch created by a third year architecture student

Placements on the course

We’ve built professional placements into every degree, every student will be guaranteed a professional placement. Our placements give you the real-world exposure and proven experience your CV needs, while building the industry networks essential for your career.

These short-term, structured experiences include:

  • Short duration: condensed work-like experience in professional environments
  • Academic integration: always linked to coursework, assessments or professional development modules
  • Project-based learning: students work on specific tasks or research with an organisation
  • Flexible format: can be in-person, remote, hybrid or virtual
  • Skill development: enhances workplace skills like communication, teamwork and problem-solving
  • Experiential learning: helping to close the gap between knowledge gained and the skills needed to succeed

Employability on the course

Our courses are designed from day one to prepare you for your future career. You will benefit from:

  • Extended induction: a period to familiarise yourself with your new university
  • Structured learning pathways: courses are crafted with a focus on preparing students for future careers
  • Hands-on project experience: projects and practical activities designed around real-world activities
  • Embedded professional development: all courses are designed with workplace skills development and professional placements as part of the course
  • Industry-informed modules: course content is kept up-to-date with industry standards through our industry links, staff's research and work in the field
  • Placement opportunities: professional development placements for every student

Course Modules

Module: 4AT014
Credits: 20
Period: 1
Type: Core

The aim of this module is to develop effective communication skills in a range of media and to use these skills to convey ideas effectively. You will acquire knowledge and techniques by developing the cognitive processes associated with drawing exploration. In the first semester you will explore technical and visual aspects of communication sketches that will help document your drawings whilst introducing you to free hand and geometric drawings In the second semester principles of one point and two point exterior and interior perspectives are introduced along with shades, shadow projections and modelling.

Module: 4AT015
Credits: 40
Period: 1
Type: Core

This dedicated design module will reinforce the skills and understanding of the design journey introduced last semester. You’ll achieve this, responding to a new project brief, requiring you to design a small home, connected to it's community and natural environment.

Module: 4AT017
Credits: 20
Period: 1
Type: Core

The aim of this module is to introduce you to the fundamental principles of design, visual aspects of form, their perception and their architectonic applications. You will address a range of concepts that impact on designs including texture and space whilst also considering 2 and 3 dimensional form.

Module: 4AT016
Credits: 20
Period: 1
Type: Core

      The aim of this module is to familiarize you with the development of architecture through the ages and explore the work of prominent Architects through history, you will also explore various theories of architecture can help you to enhance your creativity and thinking ability and contribute to you development as a designer.

Module: 4AT018
Credits: 20
Period: 1
Type: Core

The module aims to provide an introduction to, and a broad overview of some of the basic elements, concepts, materials and techniques used in building construction. It provides an introduction to architectural detailing, Health & Safety and environmental and sustainability issues related to it.

Module: 5AT020
Credits: 20
Period: 2
Type: Core

The aim of this module is to build on the knowledge from level 4 studies and introduce you to advanced building systems & technologies and means of deploying them in buildings. This will investigate the various types of structures available including concrete and steel and the technology behind their use. Additionally the module will introduce the concept of modular construction whilst also reviewing how smart buildings can play a crucial role in today’s built environment.

Module: 5AT024
Credits: 20
Period: 2
Type: Core

The aim of this module is to familiarise you with the history, theory, and evolution of the urban environment, along with its strategies and methodologies. You will explore various topics related to urbanism through place and precedent, including the historical aspects of planning, the social and political challenges of urbanism, and the environmental, financial, and economic impacts that architecture can have on the broader urban landscape.

Module: 5AT021
Credits: 20
Period: 2
Type: Core

In this module you will learn how architects must react to the climate emergency, using bioclimatic design principles to regenerate our shared environment as we utilise renewable energy and passive, fabric-first strategies for both architectural and urban design. This includes understanding how human comfort and vernacular architectural principles will improve our future designs. Additionally the module will introduce the new legislation and methods of analysis guiding and assessing environmental performance in the built environment.

Module: 5AT022
Credits: 20
Period: 2
Type: Core

This module aims to provide you with the opportunity to develop knowledge of a range of construction technologies and implement these into a design project. By using a single project & utilising the BIM process, you will develop understanding of the whole design process including researching the initial problem, developing a brief, analysing the site and developing a complete architectural concept.

Module: 5AT023
Credits: 40
Period: 2
Type: Core

The aim of this module is to provide you with the knowledge of how architecture fits into the genre of urban design.  The module will explore the fundamental concepts and processes of urban design, including the urban design process and the role of urban structure

Module: 6AT014
Credits: 20
Period: 3
Type: Core

This contextual module will further expose you to the architectural professional practice-working environment where a broad range of supporting activities, beyond that of design, necessarily take place. In the first instance you will be introduced to the varying types of practice that you might encounter and the module then develops to consider the rigour of the applicable codes of practice for architects and the associated legalities of operating in such an environment. You will also explore methods of procurement and the complexities of contract administration. The expectation is that you will conduct broad based research into specific case studies in order to develop your own strategies for solution.

Module: 6AT011
Credits: 40
Period: 3
Type: Core

This penultimate module has been designed to consolidate on the previous design orientated modules by focusing on architectural programming which draws in the involvement, and hence integration, of all interested parties from an early stage of the design process and facilitates data gathering and analysis to support robust decision making. In most cases this module will consider small scale or mixed use neighbourhood projects as the vehicle for delivering the module content.

Module: 6AT013
Credits: 40
Period: 3
Type: Core

This module offers the opportunity to undertake a substantial self-directed design project. This module enables you to utilise and integrate your acquired knowledge, formulating a critical design stance and proposal, along with a definitive conclusion for your degree. The product is a rigorously evaluated project that encompasses a synthesis of spatial, structural, and construction competencies, demonstrating your maturity in knowledge integration, innovation, and self-directed professional efforts. The design submission provides a conclusive chance to exhibit architectural design proficiency, accompanying documentation, and expertise in the architectural design process to improve your job readiness. .

Module: 6AT009
Credits: 20
Period: 3
Type: Core

The aim of this challenging module is to ensure that you have the opportunity to undertake a significant piece of written academic work, which involves the analysis, and synthesis of a specific specialist topic.  The dissertation will be required to engage with construction, art and built environment issues and should lead to the development of novel concepts, which have the potential to inform robust architectural solutions. You will be encouraged to undertake the task with a perspective conducive to examining a significantly broad cultural mix and you will be required to demonstrate an advanced level of independent critical enquiry.

Potential Career Paths

You!

Architectural Assistant

Architect (with further study and registration)

Urban Designer

Interior Architect

Planning Consultant

3D Visualiser

Architectural Technologist

Support qualified architects in design, planning, and project development.

 Design and manage building projects from concept to completion.

Plan and design functional, attractive urban spaces and environments.

Focus on the interior design and structural layout of buildings.

Advise on planning permissions and building regulations for new developments.

Create detailed digital models and visualisations for design presentations.

Apply technical knowledge to building design, detailing, and construction.

Additional Information

Everything you need to know about this course!

The School of Architecture and Built Environment (ABE) has been a cornerstone of the University since its inception as a technical college in the early 20th century, giving BSc (Hons) Architecture students the space and facilities to thrive. The experience within the School of ABE is unique as it mirrors the sector. It draws together students from across the various disciplines of architecture and related to the built environment, and is the only school in the world that offers dedicated degree courses for every stage of the lifecycle of a building, from design to demolition.

Our school has recently moved into the new Springfield Campus, a £100 million project, turning a 12-acre Grade II-listed former brewery into Europe’s largest specialist design, construction, and built environment campus. Besides housing the School, this site will also house the National Brownfield Institute, a government-supported institute focusing on transforming brownfield land into new communities through next-generation thinking and techniques. This vibrant learning environment creates a unique and exciting place for students to learn and socialise.

The Architecture course has dedicated studio facilities at the Springfield Campus, providing each student with a dedicated workspace for the entire academic year. This enables us to develop a professional, office-based working environment to support your learning and prepare you for professional practice.

In addition to having your own individual workspace, you also have full access to our model-making facilities, including facilities for hand model making and 3D printing. As part of the course, most of the materials you will need to create models are available without additional cost to you.

Within the School of ABE, our apprenticeships align with both our social mobility ethos to provide higher education for all, while also highlighting the strong industrial links we have both regionally and nationally.

 

After graduation, you'll have the theoretical and practical foundations to pursue postgraduate study and advance your journey to becoming an architect. There are also opportunities to pursue other careers within the architecture, sustainability and construction industries, such as architectural design, urban design, and landscape architecture.

Location Mode Sep intake Fee Year
Home Full-time £9535 per year 2025-26
Home Full-time £9790 per year 2026-27
International Full-time £15995 per year 2025-26
International Full-time £17600 per year 2026-27

The University is committed to a transparent fee structure, with no hidden costs, to help you make an informed decision. This includes information on what is included in the fee and how fees are calculated and reviewed.


If a tuition fee is not showing, we may not offer this intake for this course. Please check the start date information on the course finder for start dates.

Key Entry Requirements 

Either: 

  • A-levels: Grade profile of AAC 
  • Access to HE: Access to HE Diploma (60 credits) of which a minimum of 45 must be at Level 3 (128 UCAS point equivalence, minimum 30 credits at distinction)
  • BTEC: Grade profile of DDM 
  • T-Level: Pass grade D.  
  • Tariff: Other Level 3 qualifications are accepted for entry. A minimum of 128 UCAS  Tariff points will be required. 

International entry requirements and application guidance can be found here 

Use the UCAS Tariff calculator to check your qualifications and points 

Plus: 

  • GCSE: English language and maths grades 9-4/A*-C or equivalent 
    • Equivalent qualifications include the following at Level 2:  Functional Skills, Key Skills, Learn Direct. 
    • Equivalency Test: If you have not achieved your Level 2 qualifications, you are eligible to take our University equivalency tests. The tests for this course are free of charge and can be taken completely online. Our admissions team will confirm in your offer if you are required to take one of these assessments.  

Other Requirements

Students must have studied a minimum of two years post GCSE level. However, it is expected that some applicants will be mature students with work experience, who wish to further their career development. These applicants will be processed through standard procedures, which may involve an interview as part of the process. Please see http://wlv.ac.uk/mature for further information.

Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA)

Validated by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) at Part 1 level for the purpose of eligibility for membership of the RIBA.

Architects Registration Board (ARB)

Prescribed by the Architects Registration Board (ARB) at Part 1 level for the purpose of registration in the UK.

Tuition Fees Loan (Home Fee Status):

Most students will be able to apply for a loans to pay for these subject to eligibility. To find out more information please refer to the government Student Finance website.

Changes for EU students:

The UK government has confirmed that EU students starting courses from 1 August 2021 will normally be classified as having Overseas Fee status. More information about the change is available at UKCISA:

EU citizens living in the UK with 'settled' status, and Irish nationals living in the UK or Ireland, will still be classified as Home students, providing they meet the usual residency requirements, for more information about EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS)


Self-funding:

If you don’t want to take out a loan to pay your fees or if you aren’t eligible to receive a loan, you might want to take advantage of the University’s scheme to pay by instalments: See How to pay.

For more information please contact the Gateway.


Your employer, embassy or organisation can pay for your Tuition fees:

If your employer, embassy or organisation agrees to pay all or part of your tuition fees; the University will refer to them as your sponsor and will invoice them for the appropriate amount.

We must receive notification of sponsorship in writing as soon as possible, and before enrolment, confirming that the sponsor will pay your tuition fees.


Financial Hardship:

Students can apply to the Dennis Turner Opportunity Fund.

for help with course related costs however this cannot be used for fees or to cover general living costs.


Bursaries and Scholarships:

In addition the University also offers a range of Bursaries and Scholarships packages

You can find more information on the University’s Funding, cost, fee and support pages.

Telephone

01902 32 22 22

Email

enquiries@wlv.ac.uk

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