We are in the process of finalising our postgraduate taught courses for 2026/27 entry. In the meantime, you can view our 2025/26 courses.
Join a new generation of architects with our Master of Architecture (MArch) course.
At the University of Reading, you’ll study architecture in a UK professional context, but with a global outlook. You’ll examine the role of architecture in a rapidly urbanising world – in cultural, social and environmental contexts – where new approaches are needed.
Many schools of architecture focus on innovation in physical form and communication. At Reading, we stand out by also focusing on innovation in use. We explore the possibilities a new structure or space can provide for a community to engage with its surroundings – to inspire different ways of thinking and behaving.
Our curriculum draws on expertise from architecture, urban planning, social sciences, art and related disciplines. Through your studies at Reading, you’ll engage with the rich, varied and interconnected nature of design in the UK.
We have worked closely with industry partners to ensure that our curriculum is responsive to the ever-changing forms and expectations of the architectural profession.
At Reading School of Architecture, your postgraduate studies will focus on four core strands of architectural practice:
These core strands will provide a framework for you to:
You’ll also have the opportunity to choose from a series of optional modules, including related modules in built environment subject specialisms. These modules will broaden your knowledge of the industry and foster cross-disciplinary exchanges.
Our Master of Architecture (MArch) course is delivered in collaboration with our Urban Living research group, with particular strengths in societal interactions and social innovations. The course is further informed by our industry partners.
You’ll benefit from our expertise in a range of subjects related to urban living, including:
We will support you to become an innovative designer and an active researcher with a formidable skill set. You will gain the knowledge and expertise to:
The University of Reading has an excellent reputation for research in architecture, the built environment and planning:
At Reading School of Architecture, we are committed to delivering an excellent research-led education.
Our MArch course is validated by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA); this is formal recognition from RIBA that our course achieves the master’s-level standards required to prepare you for a career in architecture.
The Architects Registration Board (ARB) has also prescribed our Master of Architecture as a Part 2 course under the Architects Act 1997 until December 2028.
Our School of Architecture offers a vibrant, diverse community of staff and students. At Reading, we are passionate about using our architectural talent and knowledge to make a positive difference in the world
Our entire team contributes to studio teaching and to lecture-based modules. This creates an environment that stimulates discussion and demonstrates the cross-currents of thinking around design, histories, theories, and technologies.
You will learn through a combination of taught lectures, seminars and workshops. You’ll further develop your professional and creative skills in the design studio, and through reviews of your work.
As well as teaching you the tools and techniques used in architectural practice and research, we foster a culture of drawing, making and the theories behind these.
Your lectures will support studio teaching, providing you with insights into key concepts, methods and theories that will inform your design work.
Review sessions, or critiques (crits), allow you to present your ideas to your peers, academics, and external practitioners for feedback on design projects.
You'll develop your creative skills through regular workshops. These will focus on digital and visualisation technologies, alongside traditional fabrication and representation methods and techniques.
Workshops will enable you to explore:
Throughout your studies, you will benefit from specialist facilities in the School of Architecture, including:
Our London Road campus also offers beautiful and expansive green spaces, providing an excellent test ground for structures, events and performances.
You'll gain practical experience through field classes, allowing you to study architecture in context and connect with external parties.
You will also have the opportunity to engage with different communities, enabling you to better understand the relationship between community and architecture.
In addition, you'll benefit from guest lectures led by innovative and experimental architects and construction specialists. These lectures offer valuable insight into the industry and an opportunity to build your professional network.
In drawing, making and discussing ideas, architecture students have traditionally benefitted enormously from working together. You’ll have the opportunity to do this between your formally delivered sessions, in dedicated personal spaces in studios and in workshop spaces.
The experience of working with, and alongside, your peers will prepare you for the studio-like working environment of architects' offices. It also offers a valuable social experience. At Reading, we offer an engaging and collaborative environment. You'll join an enthusiastic and highly motivated community of students and staff.
Showcase your project and design work to industry at our End of Year Show. This joyful event provides excellent networking opportunities, and could lead to placements, work experience, or jobs after graduation.
Our MArch course offers the opportunity to undertake a credit-bearing period of practical training. You’ll be required to find and secure work experience, with the support of the University and in agreement with your Programme Director.
As part of your practical training, you may also have the opportunity to gain teaching experience. This will enable you to engage with various teaching and learning styles of studio architecture.
If you hold a first-class honours degree, you could secure a scholarship worth £1,000 for each year of our MArch course.
We also offer a 20% reduction in annual tuition fees for our alumni.
Learn more about scholarships and funding:
