BA (Hons) Architecture

The BA (Hons) Architecture at Heriot-Watt University Dubai offers a professionally oriented architectural education that combines design, technical knowledge, sustainability and critical thinking to prepare graduates for practice and advanced study. It suits creatively driven students who want to explore architectural design, history and technology while responding to real-world challenges such as climate change and energy efficiency. 

Curriculum structure

Year 1:
In the first year, students develop core design and technical foundations through modules such as Architectural Design Studio 1 & 2, Construction Technology: Small-Scale Buildings, and Shaping Tomorrow Together A & B. They learn basic drawing and modelling skills, introduce architectural thinking, and begin understanding how materials and construction influence design. At the same time, History of the Built Environment familiarises students with architectural contexts and cultural influences. 

Year 2:
Year two builds on this foundation with Architectural Design Studio 3 & 4, Construction Technology: Structure and Fabric, Architectural Representation, and History and Theories of Architecture. Students expand their design vocabulary and start using digital tools for representation, explore structural and fabric systems, and refine their understanding of architectural theory and context. Optional modules like Environment and Behaviour and Building Services Technology introduce environmental and performance considerations in design. 

Year 3:
In the third year, students tackle more complex design challenges with modules such as Architectural Design Studio 5 & 6, Integrated Technology 1, Energy and Buildings, and Critical Building Analysis. Design studios focus on medium-scale public buildings and urban interventions, while technology and environmental courses deepen knowledge of building performance and sustainability. Students also participate in collaborative design projects with civil and architectural engineers, enhancing multidisciplinary teamwork. 

Year 4:
The final year integrates all previous learning, with a focus on advanced design and research through a Capstone Architectural Design Project that meets professional criteria (such as RIBA Part One attributes). Technical and theoretical modules support this work, helping students produce a comprehensive portfolio of design, analysis, and narrative that prepares them for professional practice or postgraduate study. 

Focus areas :
Architectural design; construction technology; environmental systems; history and theory of architecture; urban and public building design; sustainability and energy performance.

Learning outcomes :
Develop creative and critical architectural design solutions; apply construction and environmental technology knowledge; understand architectural history and theory; integrate digital representation tools; conduct independent design research; articulate professional design outcomes.

Professional alignment (accreditation):
Accredited by RIBA Part One, the programme meets professional education standards for architecture and enables progression to recognised Part Two master’s degrees internationally. 

Reputation (employability rankings):
Heriot-Watt University is a recognised British university with a strong global reputation, and the Dubai campus has been awarded consecutive five-star ratings by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority, emphasising quality teaching and graduate outcomes.