MArch Architecture RIBA 2

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

London Metropolitan University

Program Overview

The MArch Architecture (RIBA Part 2) at London Metropolitan University helps you take the next big step toward becoming a professional architect. It’s designed for students who already have an architectural background and want to develop sharper design thinking, stronger technical skills and a distinctive architectural voice through studio-based, research-led learning.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:
In your first year, you’ll immerse yourself in studio projects that explore context, process and creative proposal development. You’ll work through design modules such as Design Project: Context, Process and Proposal and deepen your technical understanding through Applied Technology in Architecture. Alongside studio work, modules in theory and advocacy help you understand the cultural and social forces that shape architectural design.

Year 2:
Your final year centres around your independent Design Thesis Project, where you develop an ambitious architectural proposal supported by research, technology and critical reflection. Through Integrated Design Study and specialist options, you refine your ability to merge design, structure, sustainability and narrative into a fully resolved architectural outcome — preparing you for the professional pathway ahead.

Focus areas

Architectural design studio, building technology, design theory, urban context, research-led design development

Learning outcomes

You will develop the ability to produce innovative and well-integrated architectural proposals, apply technical and environmental knowledge to design, carry out independent research, communicate through a professional portfolio and meet the academic requirements for RIBA/ARB Part 2.

Professional alignment (accreditation)

The programme is fully accredited for RIBA Part 2 and approved by the ARB, placing you firmly on the recognised route to becoming a qualified architect in the UK.

Reputation (employability rankings)

London Met’s School of Art, Architecture and Design is known for its creative, socially engaged approach, and its students frequently gain recognition in national design competitions and awards, reflecting strong studio culture and high-quality design output.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The MArch Architecture RIBA 2 at London Metropolitan University is built around real studio culture — the kind where you learn by designing, making, testing and constantly refining your ideas. You’ll work in a creative environment that mirrors the energy of a professional architecture practice, supported by expert tutors, practising architects, and a rich mix of workshops and digital tools. The school’s facilities allow you to experiment with materials, explore complex urban questions, and express ideas through models, drawings, film, photography and digital media.

Here’s how your learning becomes hands-on and immersive:

Access to extensive art, design and model-making workshops: You can use facilities for wood, metal, textiles, ceramics, casting, printing, and digital fabrication — ideal for developing physical models and mixed-media architectural work.
Dedicated postgraduate studio “units”: You join a design unit led by experienced academics or practitioners, working in small groups on real, socially relevant and speculative architectural projects. Each unit has its own identity, focus and working methods, giving you a studio culture similar to professional practice.
Digital and multimedia resources: The School provides high-end digital reproduction tools, film and photography equipment, and digital-image processing resources. These help you produce high-quality drawings, visualisations and portfolio materials.
Integration of theory, context and advocacy: Alongside design, you engage with modules that explore architecture’s social, political and cultural responsibilities — ensuring your projects are informed by real-world issues, not just aesthetics.
A strong architectural community: Through the Metropolitan Architecture Student Society (MASS), you can take part in talks, events, peer reviews and networking activities that connect you with practising architects and the wider design community.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Completing the MArch Architecture (RIBA Part 2) positions you strongly for the next stage of your architectural career. Many graduates move into roles such as Architectural Assistant, Project Architect, Urban Designer or Design Consultant, supported by the design portfolio and technical understanding they develop throughout the course. Because this degree represents the recognised Part 2 stage of qualification in the UK, it carries real weight with employers and opens the door to long-term professional growth.

Here’s how London Met supports your future success:

Dedicated careers guidance: The university’s Careers and Employability Service provides one-to-one support, portfolio and CV development, interview coaching and help with finding internships or graduate roles.
Positive graduate outcomes: Most recent graduates from this course progressed into employment or further study within months, reflecting strong industry demand for Part 2-qualified designers.
High-value professional accreditation: The programme is fully accredited for RIBA Part 2 and approved by the ARB, giving you the essential academic stage needed to eventually qualify as a registered architect.
Employer-ready portfolio and recognition: The course’s strong studio culture and emphasis on design quality help students build portfolios that stand out. Many students gain recognition through exhibitions, competitions and awards, further strengthening their professional profile.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this MArch, you can continue to the RIBA/ARB Part 3 qualification to become a fully registered architect. You may also choose to pursue further academic study, such as a PhD in architecture or specialised postgraduate work in areas like sustainability, urban design, heritage conservation or architectural theory.