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BA (Hons)
Architecture

Key Information


Campus

Brayford Pool

Typical Offer

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Duration

Lincoln campus (3 year programme or 4 years with Foundation Year) or Hong Kong SHAPE campus (1 year top-up level 6)

Academic Year

Course Overview

The BA (Hons) Architecture explores multiple approaches and design practices and aims to assist students in discovering their own voice as a designer. Much of the assessment is through project-based assignments, integrating theoretical, technical and design work. Students are supported in developing written papers, technical studies, and design proposals in the studio environment.

Learning and teaching in the studio is informed by current research and the School promotes the exploration of drawing as a tool of observation, analysis, and communication across a range of techniques from hand sketching to sophisticated computer representations. The School's computer aided design and workshop facilities allow students the opportunity to explore and communicate design using the most up-to-date techniques, both real and virtual.

Professional standards of exhibition presentation are fostered by the course's association with the School's Design for Exhibition and Museums course. The evolution of their sketchbook and portfolio can help students to reflect upon their personal and professional development.

This programme is delivered at both our Brayford Pool Campus, Lincoln and the School of Higher and Professional Education (SHAPE), Vocational Training Council (VTC) in Hong Kong. Prospective candidates can apply to study either at either the Lincoln campus or at Hong Kong SHAPE campus. Visiting and exchange opportunities are provided regularly.

For further information please see the SHAPE website:
http://www.shape.edu.hk/programme.php?id=137519

Although this programme is not validated by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) or prescribed by the Architects Registration Board (ARB) for exemption from Part 1 of the examination in Architecture in the UK, the BA (Hons) Architecture aims to provide a framework for developing students into enabling, coordinating, and integrating designers, rather than a specialist; widely educated persons skilled in both architectural design and architectural technology.

The curriculum of the BA (Hons) Architecture is mapped onto the RIBA validated BArch curriculum. Students on both the BArch and BA programmes are taught together at the University of Lincoln's Brayford Pool Campus. Opportunities to transfer to the validated BArch programme may be available to exceptional students throughout the programme.

The Level 6 programme delivered in Hong Kong is accredited by the Hong Kong Council for Accreditation of Academic and Vocational Qualifications.

This programme is also available with an Arts Foundation Year, which can provide an alternative route of entry onto the full degree programme. Find out more at https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/course/afyafyub/.

If you are a UK student, we suggest you look at our BArch (Hons) Architecture course page. The BArch degree programme is validated by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and prescribed by the Architects Registration Board (ARB), as providing exemption from Part 1 examinations, which are required to register as an architect in the UK.

Why Choose Lincoln

Delivered in Lincoln and Hong Kong

Opportunities to transfer to the RIBA validated BArch programme

Hong Kong Council for Accreditation of Academic and Vocational Qualifications

Course content informed by current research

Specialist facilities and bespoke studios

Available with an Arts Foundation Year

*Level 6 programme delivered in Hong Kong

A student working on a project

How You Study

On this course, students can study the underlying concepts of architecture and the ways in which a building can meet the needs of its occupants and the society.

During the course, students work on a series of independent and collaborative studio-based projects. They have the opportunity to shape their learning in line with their interests, within the context of the architecture curriculum.

The programme aims to release creative potential, explore design processes, and lay a foundation of cultural and technical knowledge. Students have the opportunity to participate in practical explorations of materials and construction techniques which can lead to adventurous designs.

Students are expected to learn important drawing techniques, alongside computer-aided design (CAD), and hands-on modelling and construction.

The course is designed to address the social, theoretical, technical, technological, and contextual issues of living in the contemporary city. Design projects aim to build confidence in responding with imagination, humanity, and concern for the environment.

The studio is the main laboratory for teaching and learning on this course. In the studio, students work with academic staff who supervise their projects and guide them through the design process.

Lectures and seminars introduce topics such as humanities, environment, and technology. Students may participate in workshops, external visits, and fieldwork.

Modules


† Some courses may offer optional modules. The availability of optional modules may vary from year to year and will be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed. Optional module selection may also be affected by staff availability.

Buildable, Habitable Design 2025-26ARC1004MLevel 42025-26Students have the opportunity to develop an understanding of the principles of construction related to human habitation. This includes construction methods, material properties, legislation, climate and human comfort.CoreContextual Design Projects 2025-26ARC1003MLevel 42025-26Students can record preliminary ideas, sketches, analysis, design development, and technical research in their portfolios for discussion at tutorials and presentations. Selected elements of the design can be developed in detail.CoreDesign Process and Communication 2025-26ARC1002MLevel 42025-26This module is designed to give students the opportunity to understand the processes that are commonly used to organise and support study, research, analysis and studio design projects in architecture. It will also explore core communication skills appropriate for a career in architecture.CoreHistory and Theory of Architecture and Design 2025-26ARC1001MLevel 42025-26This module is designed to covers the development of architecture, art and design from ancient times through to the present. Visual research, analysis and presentation techniques can be developed alongside text-based academic techniques.CoreArchitectural Design Projects 2026-27ARC2002MLevel 52026-27Students have the chance to undertake design projects set by the tutor to explore principles, theories, methodologies and concepts. Appropriate working methods are introduced and guided by the tutor. The module is delivered using independent or linked design projects, one of which, because of the level of detail required, may be relatively small in scale. Projects may include housing, landscape, public buildings or the conversion of existing buildings. Defined products are required at intermediate stages and at the end of each project.CoreDesign and Society 2026-27ARC2001MLevel 52026-27This module introduces theories about interior, architectural and urban space. The course recognises that the role of the designer includes not only the considerations of the formal qualities of the designed object or environment in relation to its immediate audience but also encompasses a broader set of responsibilities to society as a whole.CoreIntegrated Design Project 2026-27ARC2003MLevel 52026-27This module is designed to be the culmination of the second level architectural design studies. It acknowledges a number of different approaches within architectural design. Students are expected to complete a medium-scale design project that demonstrates an integrated approach to design, technology and communication. This aims to provide a vehicle for preparing a professional CV and portfolio of work.CoreSustainable Design 2026-27ARC2004MLevel 52026-27Students have the opportunity to develop awareness of the principles and practise of sustainable development and environmental design. This includes the chance to develop an understanding materials, technology, energy usage and social factors.CoreArchitecture Research Projects 2027-28ARC3001MLevel 62027-28Students have the opportunity to demonstrate the management of two independent, self-managed research projects. They are expected to take full charge of their programme of study and become increasingly empowered to investigate, interrogate and challenge as they progress.CoreComprehensive Design Project - Detailed Design 2027-28ARC3003MLevel 62027-28Students are expected to develop an outline design into a fully resolved and detailed design for exhibition in the School’s Degree Show. The Comprehensive Design Projects are the culmination of the course, and this module can help to demonstrate students' skill in managing and resolving the complexities of contemporary architectural design within a range of perspectives, issues, and interests.CoreComprehensive Design Project - Outline Design 2027-28ARC3002MLevel 62027-28This module aims to build on previous investigations, both formal and abstract, in brief making and other social, political, technical, or cultural research. It encourages the student to formulate a coherent design resolution at an appropriate level of ambition and complexity. In this module students have the chance to employ their experience and understanding to construct a project theme, working method, focus, direction and output as guided by the tutor, within the School’s studio system.CoreComprehensive Design Project - Technical Studies 2027-28ARC3004MLevel 62027-28This module aims to provide students with the opportunity to develop the technical knowledge and skills useful in-practice. Students have the opportunity to develop a holistic understanding of how technology integrates with architectural design and how this relates within a comprehensive design project.CoreGlobal Professional Context 2027-28ARC3112MLevel 62027-28In today’s ever changing and highly competitive business environment, if an architectural practice is to survive, it is essential that architects have an understanding of the construction industry and the value its contribution can make to the economy. Architectural practice can no longer rely upon designing interesting buildings alone, but must do this in an efficient manner. This can only be achieved by being conversant with contemporary business management strategies, coupled with an understanding of project management within the construction industry.Core

What You Need to Know

We want you to have all the information you need to make an informed decision on where and what you want to study. In addition to the information provided on this course page, our What You Need to Know page offers explanations on key topics including programme validation/revalidation, additional costs, contact hours, and our return to face-to-face teaching.

How you are assessed

For this course assessment is 100% per cent by coursework in each year.

The way students are assessed on this course may vary for each module. Studio-based modules will have formative and summative assessments.

Assignment and coursework may include written assignments (essays or dissertation), reports, and design projects.

The University of Lincoln's policy on assessment feedback aims to ensure that academics will return in-course assessments to students promptly.

Accreditation

This Level 6 programme is delivered in Hong Kong and is accredited by the Hong Kong Council for Accreditation of Academic and Vocational Qualifications.

Degree Show

Explore our virtual RIBA validation exhibition from 2022.

Specialist Facilities

Teaching at Lincoln takes place in bespoke studios, information technology suites, and workshops, which are equipped with a range of specialist resources including rapid prototyping, 3D printing, and laser-cutting equipment.

Students working in the architecture workshops

What Can I Do with an BA (Hons) Architecture Degree?

The BA (Hons) Architecture programme aims to prepare students with the necessary knowledge and skills for positions in architectural and construction services internationally.

Entry Requirements 2025-26

Entry Requirements

Entry requirements are available on request, please contact the University by email at admissions@lincoln.ac.uk.

For more information about the SHAPE Architecture programme please visit: https://www.shape.edu.hk/programme.php?id=8129827

Contextual Offers

At Lincoln, we recognise that not everybody has had the same advice and support to help them get to higher education. Contextual offers are one of the ways we remove the barriers to higher education, ensuring that we have fair access for all students regardless of background and personal experiences. For more information, including eligibility criteria, visit our Offer Guide pages. If you are applying to a course that has any subject specific requirements, these will still need to be achieved as part of the standard entry criteria.

Fees and Scholarships

Going to university is a life-changing step and it's important to understand the costs involved and the funding options available before you start. A full breakdown of the fees associated with this programme can be found on our course fees pages.

Course Fees

For eligible undergraduate students going to university for the first time, scholarships and bursaries are available to help cover costs. To help support students from outside of the UK, we are also delighted to offer a number of international scholarships which range from £1,000 up to the value of 50 per cent of tuition fees. For full details and information about eligibility, visit our scholarships and bursaries pages.

Course -Specific Additional Costs

Standard workshop induction costs are usually covered by the University, as are some initial printing and material costs. However, depending on the material/materials chosen by the student, there may be additional costs incurred. Mandatory field trip costs are usually covered by the University, but optional study visits, which may include international trips or a student exchange programme, are at the student's own expense.

The University intends to provide its courses as outlined in these pages, although the University may make changes in accordance with the Student Admissions Terms and Conditions.