Best Architecture Universities In UK 2024

Architecture is one of the most in-demand degrees today's date. Studying architecture provides students with a deep comprehension of history and culture, which they apply to their projects. This field is also among the top 15 highest-paying professions globally. For those interested in pursuing architecture, the UK is an excellent choice. We've compiled a list of the top universities for architecture UK for your consideration.

1. University of Cambridge

• QS World Ranking - No 3 in the world 
• Tuition Fees- £9,250 for the year
• Tests required- Different entrance tests for different fields

The University of Cambridge is undoubtedly one of the best architecture universities in UK. The university building is an iconic example of modern and substantial architecture yet hints at ancient architecture. Cambridge University makes sure that this architecture university in UK have a strong foundation in the subject and also focuses on creativity and curiosity. 

The curriculum includes courses on the history and philosophy of architecture, contemporary culture and urban environments, construction, structural design, and environmental design. The faculty-to-student ratio is favorable, fostering a supportive and nurturing educational atmosphere. For those aspiring to study in the best architecture universities, the University of Cambridge is one of the best universities for architecture UK. University of Cambridge is also one of the oldest universities in the UK, to know about the other, check out this list of the oldest universities in the UK.

Top Architecture courses at The University of Cambridge: 

1. Construction
2. Structural and Environmental Design 
3. Current Culture and Urbanism

2. University of Bath

• QS World Ranking - 179th in the world
• Tuition Fees- £9,250 for the year
• Tests required- IELTS

Situated in the city of Bath, the University of Bath holds a global ranking of 179 and is renowned for imparting profound knowledge and opportunities to its students, thereby the best university for architecture UK . It is an excellent choice for architecture studies, as it has been ranked first for architecture by the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide. 

One of the unique aspects of this top architecture universities UK  that draw students to the University of Bath is its status as one of the earliest universities to earn a national police-approved security award, thus establishing it as one of the UK’s safest campuses. It stands out among the best unis for architecture due to its quality education, practical skills imparted, and an impressive placement rate of 98%.

Top Architecture courses at The University of Bath: 

1. Architecture BSc (Hons) – 4 years,
2. Architecture MArch (Hons) – 2 years
3. Structural and Architectural Engineering BEng (Hons) – 4 years 
4. Structural and Architectural Engineering MEng (Hons) – 5 years

3. Cardiff University

• QS World Ranking - 166 in the world
• Tuition Fees- £9,000 for the year
• Tests required- GCSE and IELTS

Cardiff University is an old yet top architecture universities UK. Cardiff University, a component of the Russell Group of universities, is spread across two main campuses in the capital of Wales. The Welsh School of Architecture's Bute Building, undergoing extensive renovation, will improve services for its students by the end of 2021, making it one of the best universities for architecture UK. 

Two-thirds of the BSc in its design-driven Architecture degree currently consists of project work done in the studio, emphasizing making. It works closely with non-academic partners and local communities to develop plans and ideas for positive change. This architecture university in UK have good connections with industry, practice and the government and encourages their students to be creative and use their intelligence to solve problems. If you are looking for off-campus student accommodations, you can check these student apartments near Cardiff University!

The top Architecture Courses at the University of Cardiff are:

1. BSc Architecture
2. MArch Architecture

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4. University of Nottingham

• QS World Ranking - 100th in the world
• Tuition Fees- £9,250 for the year
• Tests required- GCSE

The University of Nottingham, with its campuses in China, UK, and Malaysia, is a truly global institution and one of the best architecture universities in UK. Its main campus in the UK is celebrated as one of the largest and most picturesque in the country. As per the latest High Fliers report, Nottingham ranks among the top five universities targeted by the majority of the UK’s leading graduate employers and is recognized as one of the top architecture universities in the UK. 

Over 80% of its graduates secure high-skilled employment or pursue graduate-level studies within 15 months of completing their degrees. The university’s Department of Architecture and Built Environment has been named among the top three best universities for architecture in the UK by the Architects Journal 2020, making it one of the best unis for architecture.

The architecture courses at the University of Nottingham are:

1. Architecture BArch
2. Architectural Environment Engineering BEng
3. Architecture and Environmental Design MEng
4. Architecture with Collaborative Practice Research MArch

5. Queen's University Belfast

• QS World Ranking - 233rd in the world
• Tuition Fees-  £9,250 for the year
• Tests required- IELTS

For research, Queen's University Belfast is one of the best universities for architecture UK. Their world-class knowledge spans three core issues in architecture: architectural design, sustainable cities, heritage, and architectural humanities. They are leaders in architectural research, making them one of the best universities for architecture UK. 

The School of Natural and Built Environment offers courses leading to an architecture degree. An energetic setting with dedicated architectural design studios and workshops benefits students. According to the website, cross-programme activities are a "core" component of a connected curriculum that allows all pupils to build a solid foundation of abilities. Queen's University Belfast is definitely one of the best unis for architecture.

The architecture courses at Queen’s University Belfast are:

1. BSc(Hons) Architecture
2. Master of Architecture(MArch)
3. Building Information Modelling Project Management MSc
4. Construction and Project Management MSc
5. Professional Practice in Architecture PgCert

6. The University of Sheffield

• QS World Ranking - 82nd in the world
• Tuition Fees-  £9,250 for the year
• Tests required-  IELTS

The University of Sheffield, a distinguished member of the Russell Group, has established itself as one of the largest and most renowned research and architecture universities in the UK. Beyond academics, those who choose Sheffield can enjoy one of the UK’s most affordable and lively cities. It is considered among the best universities for architecture UK. 

The Sheffield School of Architecture offers a variety of degree programs that blend theory, design practice, and professional experience. Students will develop the ability to lead projects, solve complex challenges, express ideas, and consider the broader responsibilities of an architect, making it one of the best unis for architecture .

The top architecture courses offered by the University of Sheffield are: 

1. Architecture BA
2. Architecture and Landscape BA
3. Structural Engineering and Architecture MEng

7. University of the Arts London (UAL)

• QS World Ranking - 2nd in the world
• Tuition Fees- £25,970 for the year
• Tests required- IELTS, PTE, Trinity ISE

The largest specialized arts and design university in Europe, the University of the Arts London (UAL), is located in the vibrant capital of the United Kingdom, London and is the best university for architecture UK. 

The Architects Registration Board requires a BA (Hons) in Architecture at Central Saint Martins, and its degree programmes in architecture, spatial design, and interior design have a stellar reputation (ARB). Bloomberg, Bouygues, Camden Council, IKEA, and Yamamay are just a few of the companies that architecture students have worked with. Previous graduates have worked for prominent architectural firms, including Zaha Hadid Architects. 

The top architecture courses offered by the University of Arts London are:

1. Architecture (BA Hons)
2. M ARCH: Architecture
3. BA (Hons) Interior and Spatial Design
4. MA Interior and Spatial Design

8. University of Edinburgh 

• QS World Ranking - 15th in the world
• Tuition Fees- £9,250 for the year
• Tests required- IELTS

You will become a part of a sizable creative community of thinkers and artists in this best university for architecture UK. This includes practicing and specialized design tutors. The University of Edinburgh has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a location of outstanding architectural interest. 

Working within this setting directly leads to developing design thinking and working models. The courses are thoughtfully designed to provide a comprehensive grasp of architecture as a component of culture and society, making the University of Edinburgh one of the Best architecture universities in the UK. 

The top architecture courses at the University of Edinburgh are:

1. Architectural technology
2. Architectural engineering
3. Architectural design
4. Architectural history

9. Manchester School of Architecture

• QS World Ranking - 5th in the world
• Tuition Fees- £9,250 for the year
• Tests required- IELTS

The Manchester School of Architecture, a renowned institution established through a partnership between the Manchester Metropolitan University and the University of Manchester, is recognized as one of the best universities for architecture UK. The school offers programs that have received accreditation from esteemed bodies such as The Royal Institute for British Architects (RIBA), The Landscape Institute, and the Architects Registration Board (ARB).

Manchester is celebrated for its rich architectural heritage, innovative landscape design, and modern urban renewal initiatives, many of which have been realized in collaboration with the school’s alumni. Indeed, the Manchester School of Architecture holds a prominent position among the best unis for architecture.

The top architecture courses at the Manchester School of Architecture are:

1. BA (Hons) Architecture
2. Master of Architecture (MArch)
3. Architecture and Urbanism (MA)
4. Master of Landscape Architecture (MLA)

10. The University of Strathclyde Glasgow

• QS World Ranking - 325th in the world
• Tuition Fees-  £15,000 for the year
• Tests required- IELTS

Situated in Glasgow, one of the UK’s largest and most vibrant cities, is the University of Strathclyde, a prestigious technological university. It holds the distinction of being the first Scottish university to win the UK-wide Times Higher Education University of the Year award twice, most recently in 2019. It was also named the 2020 Scottish University of the Year by The Sunday Times Good University Guide.

The university boasts facilities such as two design studios, including a drop-in studio fostering a collaborative and creative studio community, a reference library, and a workshop for building traditional models. It is recognized as one of the top architecture universities in the UK.

The top architecture courses at The University of Strathclyde Glasgow are:

1. Architectural Studies (BA Hons)
2. MArch in Advanced Architectural Design

The UK is indeed a hub for some of the world’s top architecture universities. Renowned institutions like the University of Cambridge, Oxford University, and the Bartlett School of Architecture at University College London consistently secure high positions in global rankings. The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has a significant influence in the UK, accrediting numerous programs at leading universities. 

Besides these prominent institutions, there are several smaller, specialized schools that deliver excellent architectural education. Regardless of the university chosen, pursuing architecture studies in the top architecture universities UK lays a robust foundation for a thriving career in the field.