Situated Practice MA

15 Months On Campus Masters Program

University College London

Program Overview

The Situated Practice MA at UCL is a 15-month, on-campus master’s that explores the creative intersection of architecture, art, design, performance, and urbanism. It’s perfect for students who want to challenge conventional spatial narratives and develop practice-based projects with critical, real-world relevance.

Curriculum Structure

In the first part of the program, you’ll build a strong foundation in theory and practice through modules like Critical Spatial Practice: Site-Writing, Mediated Environments, and Research Methods, learning to combine writing, performance, and spatial experimentation. In the final months, you’ll focus on your Major Project and The Open Work, creating a site-specific, self-directed piece that showcases your research, creativity, and critical thinking.

Focus Areas

Transdisciplinary spatial practice; site-specific interventions; architecture and creative arts; urbanism and social engagement; critical research.

Learning Outcomes

Graduate with the ability to design and deliver innovative, hybrid creative projects, critically reflect on your own practice, and apply advanced methods in spatial theory, writing, and performative practice.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

While not a professional accreditation, the program equips graduates for experimental practice, curatorial work, public art, PhD research, and roles in cultural institutions.

Reputation (Employability & Rankings)

The Bartlett School of Architecture is consistently ranked among the top architecture schools globally.
Graduates enjoy excellent employability, with most working in creative or research-focused roles shortly after completing the program.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At UCL’s Situated Practice MA, you don’t just study — you create. From the very beginning, you’ll be developing site-based projects, whether installations, performances, or written interventions, and seeing your ideas come to life. The programme is designed to blend theory with hands-on practice, supported by the Bartlett’s state-of-the-art studios, workshops, and the vibrant creative environment at Here East. Field trips and engagement with London’s cultural institutions ensure your work is grounded in real-world contexts.

Here’s what your experiential learning will involve:

Studio & Design Spaces: Large collaborative studios for performance, installation, and group projects.
Digital & Fabrication Tools: Access to workshops with 3D printing, CNC milling, and model-making equipment.
Sound & Media Production: Opportunities to produce podcasts, film essays, and other media using professional equipment.
Writing Workshops: Practice site-responsive writing and turn your texts into creative outputs like artist’s books.
Research Supervision: One-on-one tutorials for your self-directed projects, including the Major Project and Open Work module.
Field Trips & Site Visits: Work on collective interventions and explore galleries, buildings, and urban sites in London.
Exhibition Opportunities: Showcase your final project publicly in The Bartlett’s annual exhibition, from installations to performances.
Library & Research Centres: Full access to The Bartlett Library, with extensive architecture, design, and planning resources.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Situated Practice MA emerge as innovative, adaptable, and critically engaged practitioners, ready to create meaningful projects across art, architecture, and urban spaces. Typical roles include creative director or installation artist, curator, spatial researcher, and project lead for public art or cultural initiatives

UCL supports your career growth through:

Career Services: Access to UCL Careers and Bartlett-specific workshops, networking events, and alumni mentoring.
Employment Outcomes: Around 93% of Bartlett graduates are in work or further study within 15 months of finishing.
University–Industry Partnerships: Opportunities to collaborate with architecture and design firms, consultancies, and cultural organisations on real-world projects.
Long-Term Value: The MA builds a strong foundation in practice-led research and creative inquiry, equipping you for careers in public art, curatorial work, or architectural research.
Graduation Portfolio: You’ll leave with a rich collection of site-specific interventions, installations, digital works, and critical writings that demonstrate your skills and research abilities.

Further Academic Progression:
After this MA, many students go on to PhD-level research in spatial theory, practice-led studies, or interdisciplinary design. With the Bartlett’s strong research environment, you’ll be well-positioned to continue at UCL or other leading institutions.