Architecture

This first degree in architecture is highly distinctive in the UK due to its focus on environmental design. You join a community of students and lecturers who are passionate about architecture and share an environmental commitment. As a graduate, you leave with a desire to make a positive contribution to the lives of people and the environments in which they live. Alongside a core knowledge of creative architectural design, you gain an understanding of how buildings can be energy efficient. You also explore how innovative design ideas can create buildings that are healthy and uplifting to use. Lectures explore the latest thinking on • architectural design • environmental issues and science • urban design • architectural history and theory • cultural studies • structures and building technology • computer aided design • professional practice. **How you learn** Your lectures and seminars cover current theory and examples of best practice in sustainable architecture. You consider low energy design principles and learn how daylight, natural ventilation and innovative solar design can benefit both people and the wider environment. Design projects allow you to experiment with original ideas, which are developed and tested in a highly supportive studio atmosphere. You have 24 hour studio access. During your studies you develop the construction skills needed as an architect and learn to apply these as a core and creative aspect of architecture. You receive CAD training, which is highly valued by employers, and have access to up-to-date environmental design simulation software. The history and theory lectures you attend provide you with diverse historical and current architectural knowledge. **Field trips abroad** European field trips during your second and third years explore the culture, history and architecture of cities such as • Amsterdam • Barcelona • Berlin • Rome • Rotterdam • Lisbon • Venice. You may be able to study abroad as part of the Erasmus programme.