Birmingham City University

BA Architecture

Birmingham City University

Course overview

This three-year full-time Bachelor of Arts Architecture course is approved by top architectural bodies like the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). This means students will not need to take the ARB/RIBA Part 1 exam when they finish, which helps them on their path to becoming a qualified architect. The course teaches you about the built world, from local places to big cities and global connections.

The course helps students create a professional body of work and uses hands-on learning. In the first year, students will learn the basics of architecture. The second year looks at how rules and plans affect city and building designs, often including a work placement. In the final year, students get to explore their interests in architecture and its artistic setting.

Entry requirements

Candidates must provide a personal statement detailing their reasons for applying to the course and any relevant study-related information. A suitable academic or professional reference is also required. Students may optionally include their CV to showcase any relevant work experience.

Grade Requirement:

  • Applicants generally need 136 UCAS points, which can be obtained from qualifications like A-levels (for example, AAB grades).

English Proficiency:

  • If English is not your first language, you will need an IELTS Academic score of 6.0 overall, with no less than 5.5 in each part (listening, reading, writing, and speaking).
  • The university also accepts other English tests, such as Pearson PTE Academic (59 overall, with no part lower than 59), TOEFL iBT (80 overall, with specific minimum scores in each section), and the BCU English Proficiency Test. Having at least a Grade C (or 4) in English.

Scholarships

  • Accelerate Scholarship

    If you come from a lower income family or household, you could receive an offer that is up to four grades below our normal entry requirements – and possibly claim a £1,000 scholarship too.

    Up to £1,000

  • International Undergraduate Scholarships

    BCU is offering a guaranteed scholarship of £5,000 to all self-funding international undergraduate students joining BCU on a full-time degree in September 2026.

    Up to £5,000

  • Sports Scholarship

    Enhanced performance support funding.

  • The High Achievers' Scholarship

    You will be eligible for a £1,000 scholarship to get your university life off to a flying start.

    Up to £1,000

Career opportunities

Graduates of the BA Architecture programme are well-prepared for different careers in the built environment. Six common career paths include:

  • Architectural Assistant 
  • Urban Designer
  • Landscape Architect
  • Interior Designer
  • Construction Manager
  • Architectural Consultant

Cost of study

For the 2025/26 academic year, the annual tuition fee for the BA Architecture course for International Students is £17,690 per year.

Admission

Candidates who are interested in this course can apply through UCAS or the university's international application form. Those who have further questions about the application process can reach out to one of our trained counsellors.

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