Architecture and Urbanism (MA)

Manchester School of Architecture

MA Architecture and Urbanism invites you to shape the future of our cities and tackle the biggest challenges facing urban environments today. Combining in-depth research with studio-based design, the course addresses how cultural, economic, and environmental forces influence contemporary cities and places. You will produce written, drawn and modelled work rooted in historical urban theory and directed towards creating sustainable, future-focused cities.

Designed for both aspiring researchers and industry professionals, the course supports diverse career goals and specialised interests. Shape your own direction through the exploration of specific research interests and studio design practice. Our urban laboratories provide space to investigate solutions to urban challenges through various lenses - for example landscape, contextualism, prototype, and housing.

You will benefit from the specialist workshops at both Manchester Metropolitan University and the University of Manchester to explore model-making, fabrication, and realisation of your ideas.

You will have opportunities to enhance your specialist knowledge and get career ready by connecting with Manchester School of Architecture’s network of industry leaders and alumni. This course will expose you to the global perspectives and experiences of experts in urbanism including planners, architects, historians, artists and environmental consultants.

This course is ideal preparation for careers in professional or academic roles associated with sustainable urban and architectural design. Graduates go on to shape the built environment at every level in architectural practice, academic research, urban design, policy, consultancy, and construction.

The programme is part of Manchester School of Architecture, an internationally recognised leader in architectural and urban design education which is jointly delivered and awarded by Manchester Metropolitan University and The University of Manchester.