MSc Computational Architecture

Study an experimental course that applies computational modelling and digital fabrication. You'll apply your skills to simulations, solving architectural problems in a design studio environment. Benefit from our industry partnerships, learning from experts in practice through workshops and guest

When an architectural problem needs solving, architects use biological and mathematical models to simulate the problem. Applying these algorithms to simulations allows architects to experiment with design solutions in a studio environment.

Modelling is crucial for us to create spaces that support the social and biological systems in society. Explore the natural and built environment, designing spaces to enhance these settings while tackling industry challenges, such as sustainability.

Careers

MSc Computational Architecture equips you with the skills and knowledge to apply modelling to a wide range of architectural issues. This course is designed to create the next generation of leaders in the industry, ready to work with technical professionals on project teams. You'll develop the skills needed to become a practitioner in architecture, engineering or design.

After you graduate, you'll be equipped to work in a range of technical areas, working with architectural, engineering and construction employers. For example, experts in fabrication and computational scripting are sought after by construction management companies and contractors across the UK. Other careers include teaching and research in further and higher education, training, consultancy and entrepreneurship.

Whatever your career aspirations are, you'll benefit from our strong industry partnerships. Get involved in workshops and projects connected into the South West Creative Technology Network. You'll also have the opportunity to attend guest lectures from visiting professionals, enabling you to learn the latest architectural developments from experts in practice.

Throughout your studies, you'll gain further design experience through professional opportunities, such as exhibitions. Showcase your talent by exhibiting your final year project at our annual Plan and Make Degree Show. This enables you to connect with potential employers, building your professional network as you gain exposure in the industry.

Graduates from this course will go on to employment in the architectural sectors, teaching and academia, with many going on to take PhDs in design-related subjects.

Our award-winning careers service helps you develop your employment potential through career coaching, a vacancy service for internships, placements, jobs, global opportunities, volunteering and community activity plus support for entrepreneurial activity, and access to employer events.

Entry requirements

We normally require an honours degree of 2:2 or above in one of the following areas; Architecture, Product Design, Media Design, Digital Media, Civil and Structural Engineering, Engineering, Computer Science, Pervasive Media or Art and Design.

Applicants will study pathway one unless they can present research-based project work in computational design that they have completed previously and that demonstrates their proficiency and understanding of this field. Applicants with this existing project-work may seek access to pathway two of this course and will be required to present a sample of their research work and discuss this at an interview. An applicant that has completed a Masters or MArch degree that included assessed work in computational architecture may be considered for pathway two.

Applicants will be required to provide a sample of work.

Applicants may also be invited to an interview (via video conferencing for overseas students) on the basis of the formal application and sample of work.

We can consider applicants who do not meet the normal entry requirement, but who do have relevant professional experience or qualifications. In your application, you should describe in detail your professional experience and qualifications.