MArch Architecture Design and Build

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Nottingham

Program Overview

The MArch Architecture Design & Build at the University of Nottingham is a hands-on, immersive program that blends creative design with practical making. It’s perfect for students who want to see their ideas come to life, exploring architecture through both innovative design and real-world construction.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 (Full-Time, 1 Year):
In this intensive year, you’ll work on Advanced Design Projects that develop your creative ideas from concept to physical models, exploring sustainable design and architectural innovation. Through Case Study Projects and Design Fabrication, you’ll analyse existing buildings and learn practical skills in materials, construction, and digital making. The year concludes with a Dissertation or Design Thesis, allowing you to focus on independent research or a design-focused project that reflects your interests.

Focus Areas

Design + Build, Architectural Fabrication, Urban Design, Material Experimentation, Maker Practice, Research Methods

Learning Outcomes

You’ll gain advanced design skills, hands-on fabrication experience, the ability to critically evaluate built environments, and confidence in conducting independent research that connects theory with practice.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The program is part of Nottingham’s architecture department, which offers courses accredited by ARB and RIBA, ensuring strong professional relevance.

Reputation (Employability / Rankings)

Nottingham is ranked among the top UK universities for architecture and consistently performs well in global QS rankings, offering excellent employability prospects and a supportive, creative learning environment.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

In this programme, you don’t just learn theory — you build. You’ll work in Nottingham’s dedicated Design+Build Studio, where students design and construct real architectural projects, sometimes even in international settings, giving you practical, hands-on experience while working with communities. The programme also gives you access to the Centre for 3D Design, where you can experiment with both traditional and digital fabrication tools, turning your ideas into tangible models and prototypes. Expert technical staff guide you through advanced construction techniques, helping you bridge the gap between concept and reality.

This hands-on learning includes:

Design+Build Studio — immersive group projects, including international construction experiences and community-focused builds.
Centre for 3D Design — equipped with laser cutters, 3D printers, CNC routers, vacuum forming, foam modeling, and joinery tools.
Model-making workshop — access to both traditional and digital tools with support from workshop technicians.
Collaborative studio environments — vertical studio settings encourage teamwork across different year groups on shared design and build briefs.
George Green Library — resources for architecture and engineering students, with study spaces and computer labs.
Sustainable research facilities — including labs and centres for studying energy-efficient design and environmental performance.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from the MArch Architecture Design & Build programme are ready to step into a variety of exciting roles, such as design-build architects, urban designers, architectural researchers, or project managers. The skills you develop here also prepare you to lead socially impactful construction projects, both in the UK and internationally.

Opportunities and support include:

Careers & Employability Support — personalised guidance on CVs, interview preparation, and connections with employers and internships in architecture and construction.
Strong Graduate Outcomes — a high proportion of postgraduates secure professional employment or continue their studies within 15 months of graduation.
Industry Partnerships — students gain experience through collaborations with organisations like Education Africa, Thusanang Trust, and Studio 8Fold on real-world build projects.
Long-Term Accreditation Value — the master’s demonstrates advanced design and making skills, providing a strong foundation for future professional or academic accreditation.
Graduate Destinations — alumni go on to work in architectural practice, community-focused design-build projects, consultancy, or research roles.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this MArch, you could pursue research degrees such as an MPhil or PhD in architecture, design-build, or related fields, allowing you to deepen your expertise and contribute to innovative architectural research.