Learning and Teaching

The MEng, BEng Architecture programme at the University of Leeds is a unique four-year programme of learning, providing professional qualifications in Architecture, Civil & Structural Engineering and Building Physics. Its aim is to produce construction industry design professionals who can work across disciplines, in preparation for the complex challenges of practice. At a time  that has seen increasing specialisation of construction industry professional roles, it is increasingly difficult to maintain a coherent overview of a construction project’s progress – a ‘golden thread’ of understanding. Architects are traditionally the guardians of this but to be effective in the modern world need an excellent understanding of design and management processes across disciplines. This course aims to increase the level of expertise and capacity of its architectural graduates in these respects.

Architecture has been taught at the University of Leeds since the 1970’s. A Russell Group University, it has a strong reputation for high quality teaching and  world-leading research activity in materials science, structures, sustainability and environmental engineering, building energy, indoor air quality, and construction project management. The University’s diverse range of expert knowledge and research across faculties in fields relevant to architecture such as urbanism, geography, law, business, social science, design and fine art influence and contribute to taught content and delivery. Within this setting, Architectural Engineering has consistently offered a pioneering integration of creative design with scientific knowledge through building design. The MEng, BEng Architecture programme is founded on this heritage and is the first programme in the UK to be accredited by ARB(Part1), RIBA(Part1), CIBSE(CEng) and the JBM(CEng), allowing graduates to choose career paths in any of these disciplines but with enhanced knowledge of all.

The University’s architecture teaching aims to reintegrate and reinforce technical learning as a fundamental part of architecture. Enhanced technical content within the course is not an alternative to creativity, but instead is a source of inspiration and confidence in creative and thoughtful design. Far from being a dilution of architectural value, expertise in materials, structures and building services is seen as a strength. Teaching is supported by external practitioners who are involved in the direction and development of teaching practice as well as design tutorials.