Modules

This industry-focused architecture course is taught through integrated design projects where knowledge is discussed and shared in a professional studio environment. Projects range from small-scale, fast-paced challenges to comprehensive design projects, which will allow you to showcase your wide-ranging skills as they develop over the three years of the degree.

You'll apply drawing, 2D and 3D CAD design, model-making, design process and writing to architectural projects, as you develop critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills. On top of sharing your ideas in active debates, you'll learn collaborative and organisational skills with group design projects.

Throughout the course, we'll prepare you for professional practice; you'll learn the principles of participatory design, allowing you to begin to navigate the complex issues you'll face working in architecture.

Upon completion of your Architecture degree you'll have the ability to define and create critically strategic projects as well as the ability to challenge existing briefs to create architecture that excels in its inclusivity and relevance to the issues that face society today and in the future. You'll explore the craft of architecture, understand the tectonics of materials and their relationship with each other, and develop a critical understanding of architecture's response to place. You'll leave us with a set of skills and knowledge that allows you to become a provocateur: entrepreneurial in your thinking and critically reflective in your work

Year one
You'll get to grips with the primary skills and language of architecture as you apply practical and conceptual skills to develop user-centred design outcomes. You'll consider space and light in architectural composition and gain a basic understanding of different structural approaches to building. We'll equip you with an overview of context, history and theory, paying special attention to the unique history of Cornwall. By the end of the year, you'll begin to formulate an ethical and aesthetic position in relation to the architectural profession.

Modules
Place
People
Community
Structure -

Year two
You'll develop your technical and conceptual skills as you take on larger-scale design projects. On top of considering the environmental issues in sustainable development, you'll explore 'housing' in the broadest sense. We'll also encourage you to take on international exchanges and placements. You'll develop confidence in the application of technical information and gain an understanding of the statutory requirements of professional practice. You'll learn to create designs that respond to the varied needs of users and continue developing a personal ethical basis for design decisions, with emphasis on client needs and concern for both natural and built environments.

Modules
Context
Environment
Habitation
Practice

Year three
An independent exploratory project will test your definition of what architecture is or can be, supported by a critical and theoretical view in your dissertation. You'll then complete the course with a comprehensive major project highlighting all your skills. You'll also be able to demonstrate a rigorous and comprehensive level of architectural design ability that meets the ARB Part 1 Graduate Attributes

Modules
Independent Exploratory Project
Dissertation
Final Major Project

The modules above are those being studied by our students, or proposed new ones. Programme structures and modules can change as part of our curriculum enhancement and review processes. If a certain module is important to you, please discuss it with the Course Leader.

Assessment methods

No formal exams, all work is assessed through coursework.
Verbal and visual presentations to core teaching staff, visiting critics and your peers.
Formative feedback is continuous throughout the studio-based modules whilst summative assessment takes place to provide you with structured feedback to help your work develop.
Final-year projects and dissertation.