Architectural Computation MRes

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University College London

Program Overview

The 1-year on-campus MRes in Architectural Computation at UCL’s Bartlett School of Architecture is all about pushing the boundaries of design with computation. It’s perfect for architects, engineers, urban designers, or anyone with a background in tech who wants to explore AI, algorithmic design, and cutting-edge digital workflows in architecture.

Curriculum Structure

Year (Full-time 1 year)
You’ll start by building a solid foundation, learning the essentials of programming and digital design workflows in modules like Introduction to Programming for Architecture and Design and Computational Analysis. These give you the tools to model, simulate, and analyze your designs with precision.

Midway through, you’ll dive into advanced topics such as Computational Synthesis and Morphogenetic Programming, exploring generative design, algorithmic systems, and how computation can drive innovation in architecture.

The year culminates in a major independent project, the Built Environment Dissertation, where you’ll apply everything you’ve learned—programming, algorithmic design, and research skills—to investigate new computational methods or creative design solutions.

Focus Areas

Computational design, algorithmic & generative modelling, programming for architecture, AI in the built environment, research methods, data-driven and responsive architecture.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the programme, you’ll be able to apply computational techniques to real-world design problems, anticipate the impact of design decisions using data and analysis, integrate advanced digital workflows into your projects, and conduct independent research to push the boundaries of architectural computation.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

While this MRes is research-focused and not a route to formal architectural registration, it prepares you for roles in high-tech design studios, computational design research, or doctoral studies in architecture and related fields.

Reputation (Employability & Rankings)

The Bartlett faculty is ranked 1 globally in QS Subject Rankings for Architecture & Built Environment. Graduates go on to work in leading architectural and engineering practices, specialist modelling teams, or launch their own innovative ventures.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At UCL’s Bartlett School of Architecture, the MRes in Architectural Computation is designed to get you working with real-world tools and tackling hands-on design challenges from day one. You’ll explore generative and algorithmic design in the studios, test your ideas in digital labs, and collaborate closely with peers and supervisors on research-driven projects. The programme combines theory with practice, giving you the chance to bring your ideas to life—whether through coding, simulation, or physical prototypes:

Access to The Bartlett Software Library with tools like Adobe Creative Cloud, AutoCAD, QGIS, Digimap, and more for all your design and analysis needs.
State-of-the-art design studios and fabrication workshops for digital modelling, rapid prototyping, and material exploration.
Research clusters and supervised studio projects where you collaborate in groups to push the boundaries of computational architecture.
Opportunities to showcase your work in events like the Bartlett Autumn Show and the MRes Conference, gaining feedback from faculty and industry experts.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from the MRes Architectural Computation leave UCL ready to take on exciting roles like Computational Design Researcher, Design Modelling Specialist, or even founder of a high-tech design studio. The programme equips you not only with practical skills but also with the credibility and network to make a real impact in architecture, engineering, and digital design. Here’s how UCL supports your career journey:

UCL Careers & Bartlett support: Personalized career consultations, workshops, and access to internships and placements through MyUCLCareers and the UCL Talent Bank.
Strong employment outcomes: Around 93% of Bartlett graduates are in work or further study within 15 months of finishing their degree.
Industry connections: Partnerships with top firms like Foster + Partners, Zaha Hadid Architects, ARUP, and collaborations with innovation projects like C40 Cities and AtkinsRéalis.
Long-term value: The MRes is research-focused, giving you credibility for academic, research, or entrepreneurial roles.
Graduation outcomes: Alumni move into leading design and engineering practices, doctoral research, or launch their own innovative ventures.
Further Academic Progression:

After completing the MRes, you can continue your studies with a PhD, such as in Architectural Space and Computation at The Bartlett, or other advanced research degrees. This pathway opens doors to careers in teaching, research, and advanced computational design projects worldwide.