MScR Architecture

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Edinburgh

Program Overview

The MScR Architecture is a one‑year, full-time research master’s designed for students with an architecture background who want to explore design-led research. You’ll investigate topics such as theory, history, conservation, sustainability, or digital media while developing your own architectural project under expert guidance.

Curriculum Structure

This is a research-focused programme rather than a traditional taught master’s. Over the year, you’ll develop a substantial architectural research project, combining design work with critical writing. Seminars and research-led teaching will support your exploration of methods, theory, and historical context, allowing you to produce both practical and scholarly outputs.

Focus Areas

Architectural conservation, history & theory, design-led research, digital media, environmental sustainability

Learning Outcomes

Conduct independent architectural research, integrate theoretical and historical ideas with design practice, critically analyse environmental and conservation challenges, and produce a coherent thesis with both written and design elements

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

While not a professionally accredited practice master’s, this programme prepares you for roles in design research, heritage organisations, academia, or further study

Reputation & Employability

Edinburgh College of Art and the University of Edinburgh are globally respected for architecture and design research. Graduates benefit from the university’s strong research networks and reputation in architecture, giving them a head start in research, heritage, and consultancy roles.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

In the MScR Architecture programme at the University of Edinburgh, you’ll build practical, research‑led skills by working on your own architectural investigation under expert supervision — not just in theory, but through real design work, hands‑on making, and collaborative seminars. You’ll be based in ESALA’s studios surrounded by well‑equipped workshops that let you experiment with both analogue and digital techniques. Alongside that, a vibrant research environment and regular seminars bring together scholars and peers to test ideas and critique work.

Here’s how that plays out in your day‑to‑day learning:

Use dedicated postgraduate studios in ESALA, supported by computing facilities for drawing, modeling, and design development.
Access a full range of technical workshops: wood, metal, casting, carving bays, spray‑rooms, darkrooms, CNC, and rapid‑prototyping tools.
Leverage digital fabrication and VR/AR resources, including 3D printing, laser cutting, and high-end rendering hardware through the Edinburgh Strategic Alliance facilities.
Conduct your research in the Art and Architecture Library, a specialist collection of books on theory, conservation, digital media, and design practice.
Take part in the OPENspace research seminar series, where you present, discuss, and refine your ideas alongside PhD candidates and visiting researchers.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MScR Architecture are well-prepared for research-driven and leadership roles, including positions such as research architect, design researcher, heritage consultant, or university lecturer. The programme develops specialist skills in independent architectural inquiry, making you highly valuable in academia, heritage organisations, design practices, and consultancy.

Here’s how the University supports your career progression:

The University Careers Service provides guidance during your studies and after graduation, helping you access job opportunities, academic fellowships, and networking events.
Most Edinburgh College of Art postgraduate research students move into employment or further study shortly after graduation, reflecting strong career readiness.
Through Edinburgh Innovations, the university helps researchers translate their work into practical applications, including consulting, technology licensing, and launching design-led projects.
While the MScR is not a professionally accredited practice degree, it is highly respected in research, academia, and heritage organisations, adding long-term value to your career.
Graduates consistently secure highly skilled employment or continue to further research opportunities, demonstrating the programme’s strong alignment with advanced career paths.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MScR Architecture, you could continue to a PhD in Architecture or other doctoral research programmes at Edinburgh, deepening your design-led, theory-driven investigation into architecture, conservation, urbanism, or digital media.