UCD College of Engineering & Architecture

Architecture - BSc (Architecture)

UCD is at the centre of architecture education in Ireland. In 2012, the UCD School of Architecture celebrates its centenary. In those 100 years, over 2000 students have graduated. Today, the UCD Architecture programme, consisting of the BSc (Architectural Science) and MArch (Hons), is unique in Ireland in being accredited by the professional institutes of both Ireland and Britain RIAI and RIBA. The RIBA accreditation provides an internationally recognised benchmark of quality.

At UCD our programmes are constantly evolving, seeking to extend architecture’s role and potential in a complex world. We aim to produce highly competent, creative professionals, capable of addressing global societal issues.

Our educational programme attracts a diverse cross-section of talents and approaches – from the technically minded to the artistically gifted; from the socially conscious to the natural communicators and leaders. All have the capacity to become successful and productive graduates in architecture.

Over the years the school has produced many architects of note, who have not only redefined design in Ireland and abroad, but have also redefined the role of the architect in modern society.

The Undergraduate Programme

There are two main elements to the programme – project work (architectural design, drawing and model making) and lecture programmes (historical and theoretical material). Project work is taught in the architecture design studios through a combination of lectures, individual tuition, field trips, group tutorials, large reviews and exhibitions. Lecture-based modules are grouped under the broad headings of Technical (Architectural Technologies, Structures, Environmental Science), and Cultural (Architectural History and Theory, Ecology, Conservation).

Through the UCD Horizons programme, from second year, students can choose to study modules ranging from languages and politics or philosophy and art history, to mathematical and scientific subjects. This breadth of opportunity is augmented by the possibility to experience other cultures and societies during field trips and workshops abroad.

The undergraduate degree of Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Architectural Science is awarded to all students who achieve the necessary number of credits from the first three years of the Architecture programme.

For follow-on entry into the MArch, students must satisfy the progression requirement. If you do not wish to proceed to a full five-year MArch degree, the Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Architectural Science equips graduates with a breadth of knowledge and a range of skills and abilities applicable in many different contexts. The degree also provides an avenue into careers in associated professions such as landscape architecture, planning or research.

To find out more about the UCD School of Architecture undergraduate programme, go to myUCD.