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International College

Study architecture 

All types of architecture can have real-world impacts. They can fulfil housing and leisure needs, improve environmental quality, conserve historical landmarks, and respond to political agendas.

What is architecture?

Architecture is the art and science of designing buildings and structures. It includes related fields, such as interior architecture and landscape architecture. Architecture courses focus on buildings, offices and other public and private structures. Landscape architecture focuses on outdoor spaces, which includes anything from parks or sports sites to motorways.

Architecture at the University of Sheffield

Sheffield School of Architecture (SSoA) is an inspiring place to study your degree. It has been named as the best place to study architecture in the UK (Guardian University Guide 2019). 

All architecture courses at SSoA are professionally accredited by RIBA or the Landscape Institute. Teaching takes place in the Arts Tower – the UK’s tallest university building, with stunning views over the city and countryside. Facilities include dedicated architecture studios and computer rooms. You'll also use the media unit, photography studio and reprographics studio with 3D printing.

Teaching includes theory, design and professional experience. You’ll be supported by leading academics, practising architects and passionate teachers. They'll help you to develop the knowledge, skills and industry contacts you need for a successful career in architecture. Around 96% of SSoA students are employed within six months of graduating. Many find work with top architecture practices in the UK and overseas.

Architecture degree options at the University of Sheffield

International Foundation Year students can progress to degrees including: 

Related degrees

*This degree is for progression from the International Foundation Year in Science and Engineering, Biological and Life Sciences pathway. 

Architecture rankings

World Top 50 for Architecture
QS World University Rankings by Subject 2020

96% of graduates
are employed within 6 months of graduating
Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education survey 2016/17

3rd in the UK
for Architecture
Guardian University Guide 2020

Degree preparation at the International College

Find your pathway to studying architecture with the International Foundation Year or Pre-Masters programme. Prepare for a degree at the Sheffield School of Architecture, developing your English language, study skills and subject knowledge. 

Entry requirements

International Foundation Year 

  • Three-term programme: Academic IELTS for UKVI 5.0 with minimum 5.0 in writing (minimum of 4.0 in other skills)
  • Two-term programme: Academic IELTS for UKVI 6.0 (minimum 5.0 in all skills)

Pre-Masters

  • Three-term programme: Academic IELTS for UKVI 5.5 (minimum 5.5 in all skills)
  • Two-term programme: Academic IELTS for UKVI 6.0 (minimum 5.5 in all skills)

Why study architecture?

Architecture is a fascinating and rewarding subject to study at university. Some of the benefits include:

Architecture courses are hands-on. You’ll use skills such as sketching, computer modelling, 3D design and photography. You will also learn how to manage budgets, work independently and collaborate with others. Creativity is as important as practical skills, as you’ll be designing beautiful structures that could become works of art.

Architects can make social, environmental and political impacts. They solve problems, improve lives and enhance environmental quality. They design affordable housing, regenerate waste grounds, and enhance rural areas. Your work could have a lasting impact on cities and green spaces across the world.

Architecture is a well-paid job with excellent prospects and the opportunity to travel. The work is varied, and time is divided between the office, site visits and working with others. Architects are passionate about what they do, and they have transferrable skills that are useful in other careers.

Architecture career prospects

When you graduate from a leading architecture school like SSoA, you’ll have an exciting choice of career or further study options.

Architecture careers include:

  • residential architect
  • commercial architect
  • industrial architect
  • landscape architect.

Related careers include:

  • architectural technologist
  • interior and spatial designer
  • building surveyor
  • commercial surveyor
  • historic buildings inspector
  • planning and development surveyor
  • production designer for theatre, TV or film
  • structural engineer
  • town planner.

"I'm going to be"...a landscape architect

Guilio from Indonesia