Architecture BA (Hons)

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Kingston University London

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Architecture at Kingston University gives students a solid foundation in design, technical understanding, and critical thinking, combining hands‑on studio work with theoretical study. It is perfect for creative thinkers who want to shape built environments and explore how architecture impacts society, sustainability, and form.

Curriculum Structure

Year One
In the first year, students focus on learning how to observe and represent architectural ideas. The Reading and Representing: Architecture Starts With Seeing module develops drawing, modelling, and descriptive skills by studying real architecture and translating those observations into original work. In Professional Practice and Making: Architecture is for Others, students reflect on how architecture affects people, learn to work collaboratively, and understand the ethical and technical challenges of building. The Studio: Architecture is Slow course allows them to tackle design briefs gradually, with model‑making, site-based explorations, and real‑scale experiments in climate, structure, and materiality.

Year Two
In year two, students’ work becomes more independent and experimental. The Reading: Architecture Is Seen by Each of Us Differently module develops research, analytical writing, and architectural interpretation — exploring how buildings tell stories and how different perspectives shape design. Professional Practice: Architecture Is Shaped by Society deepens understanding of legal, regulatory, and ethical frameworks, engaging with real architectural professionals. The Studio: Architecture Is Formed by Climate and Comfort module challenges students to design with environmental factors in mind, exploring material performance, thermal comfort, structure, and building-context interaction.

Year Three
In the final year, students consolidate learning in a major design thesis. The Reading: Architecture Is a Common Ground module supports critical research, analysis of precedents, and development of a written architectural argument. Professional Practice and Making: Architecture Is a Matter of Ethics and Competence applies learning about procurement, structure, and professional obligations in preparation for a future career. The Architecture Is… module anchors the thesis design project, producing a comprehensive portfolio that integrates tectonics, sustainability, structure, and individual architectural philosophy.

Focus Areas

Design, architectural representation, materiality and tectonics, environmental comfort, ethics and professional practice.

Learning Outcomes

Students will be able to conceive and communicate original architectural ideas, research and critically analyse architectural context, integrate technical and sustainable solutions into designs, and reflect on ethical, social, and professional dimensions of architecture.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The course is validated by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and prescribed by the Architects Registration Board (ARB).

Reputation / Employability

Kingston University is ranked among the top universities in London for Architecture. Students benefit from a strong creative community, well‑equipped design studios, and a track record of alumni working in leading architectural practices.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Kingston University, the BA (Hons) Architecture course is deeply hands-on, combining studio work with material exploration and design thinking. From the first year, students work in design studios and workshops to develop drawing, making, and conceptual skills. Teaching is delivered by practising architects, giving insights from real-world practice. Projects increasingly incorporate environmental, social, and material constraints, culminating in a thesis design project in the final year that integrates design, research, technical knowledge, and professional strategy.

Students’ experiential learning includes:

Studio-based design work throughout the course, with roughly 50% of learning occurring in the studio
Workshops for drawing, casting, and model-making, including large-scale physical models and detailed representations
Computer-based graphics and CAD for technical drawing and architectural representation
Professional Practice module involving group work on ethics, client relations, and technical/contractual realities
Climate and Comfort studio in Year 2, focusing on environmental issues, materiality, energy, and human comfort
Final-year thesis project integrating tectonics, sustainability, structure, and professional practice
Academic research and dissertation to develop contextual understanding and personal architectural voice
Personal tutor system providing guidance on design, academic development, and career planning

Facilities & Tools

Knights Park Campus: compact, creative campus encouraging cross-disciplinary collaboration
Workshops and labs: equipped for modelling, casting, and hands-on construction
Studios: dedicated design studios for critique, iteration, and project development
Computer facilities: access to CAD and graphics software for digital design and representation
Library and research resources: strong support for architectural theory, history, sustainability, and technical research

Why This Degree at Kingston University Is a Smart Choice

RIBA Accreditation: course validated by the Royal Institute of British Architects
Creative and Collaborative Environment: part of Kingston School of Art, encouraging interdisciplinary work
Top Rankings: recognized among the leading architecture programs in London
Practising Architect Teachers: faculty bring current industry experience into teaching
Sustainability and Ethics Focus: curriculum integrates climate literacy, life-safety, and responsible design
Career Pathways: graduates progress to professional architectural roles or further study (e.g., Master of Architecture)

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from this program are prepared to pursue professional architectural practice or further studies toward full architectural qualification. Typical roles include Architectural Assistant, Design Consultant, Project Coordinator, and Urban Designer:

University Career Services: Kingston University’s Careers and Employability Service offers tailored career guidance, portfolio development support, internship and placement opportunities, and access to employer networking events in architecture and design.
Employment Stats & Salary Figures: Graduates report strong employment outcomes, often securing roles within six months. Starting salaries typically range from £22,000 to £30,000, depending on the role and location.
University–Industry Partnerships: Students benefit from Kingston’s collaborations with architecture practices, construction firms, and design consultancies, providing opportunities for live projects, client briefs, and professional placements.
Long-Term Accreditation Value: The program is validated by ARB and RIBA, providing Part 1 exemption and a recognized pathway toward professional registration as an architect.
Graduation Outcomes: Alumni advance to Part 2 studies, work in architectural practices, or pursue roles in project management, urban planning, and sustainable design.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates can continue to the BA (Hons) Architecture Part 2 or a Master’s in Architecture to complete the professional qualification required for registration as an architect. Alternatively, specialized postgraduate programs in sustainable design, digital architecture, or urban regeneration are available to enhance career opportunities.