Manchester School of Architecture

Architecture

We are renowned, innovative and engaged.

Introduction

Manchester School of Architecture (MSA) is an innovative collaboration between Manchester Metropolitan University and The University of Manchester. We unite two schools with more than 100 years of experience, over 35 experts in their architectural fields and more than 700 students from over 50 countries producing creative, challenging and academically rigorous work and research in the heart of Manchester. 

We offer a range of professionally recognised undergraduate, postgraduate and research degrees, providing the opportunity to hone the skills to become a qualified architect in the UK at a school that is currently ranked as among the top five in the world (QS World Rankings 2024). 

Our courses are accredited by institutions such as the Architects Registration Board (ARB), Royal Institute for British Architects (RIBA) and The Landscape Institute. We have gained a reputation for the variety, vitality and achievements of our students, reflected in appraisals by professional institutions and the range of prizes gained externally. 

Why Manchester Met

Renowned reputation

As a student at the Manchester School of Architecture (MSA), you’ll benefit from being part of an institution ranked fifth in the QS World Subject Rankings and second in the UK (2024). Your courses are accredited by the Architects Registration Board (ARB), the Royal Institute for British Architects (RIBA), and The Landscape Institute, ensuring you receive a high-quality education that meets professional standards.

Teaching excellence

Enhance your postgraduate journey with our dedicated department of passionate teachers and researchers, each an expert in their field. Collaborate with industry professionals as we seamlessly integrate external insights into our curriculum, offering you unparalleled access to leading design professionals.

Unique partnerships

Our collaboration with the University of Manchester enables you to use the facilities and resources from both institutions, such as libraries, computer suites and making and media workshops, giving you a competitive learning experience not commonly found in other institutions. 

Networking opportunities

At Manchester Student Society of Architecture (MSSA), we're proud to be the largest society of our kind in the UK. Join us to cultivate invaluable connections within the architecture community, participate in enriching study tours, and engage in international collaborations with top schools and organisations annually.

Career prospects

Our graduates are equipped for diverse roles in architecture, planning, conservation, and heritage management, seamlessly transitioning between academic and industry settings. With us, you’ll gain the versatility and expertise needed to excel in any professional context within the architectural realm.

Industry-standard facilities

Our RIBA award winning Manchester School of Art building gives high quality environments. We boast a nationally recognised art and design collection where specialist collections include the Manchester Society of Architects’ Library. This holds important and rare books on the history of architecture.

Manchester School of Architecture's MArch program aligned perfectly with my goals, offering amazing facilities and strong teaching support. Though there weren't formal placement opportunities, I found valuable experiences working as a research assistant. Balancing my studies with other commitments was manageable and rewarding, allowing me to build industry connections and represent student voices on the RIBA Council. One of the best parts about this course is the unique insights and networking opportunities. I highly recommended Manchester School of Architecture for postgraduate study, especially to those interested in research-oriented paths.
Albena
MA Architecture student
Manchester School of Architecture's MArch program aligned perfectly with my goals, offering amazing facilities and strong teaching support. Though there weren't formal placement opportunities, I found valuable experiences working as a research assistant. Balancing my studies with other commitments was manageable and rewarding, allowing me to build industry connections and represent student voices on the RIBA Council. One of the best parts about this course is the unique insights and networking opportunities. I highly recommended Manchester School of Architecture for postgraduate study, especially to those interested in research-oriented paths.
Albena
MA Architecture student

Our reputation

QS World University Rankings

QS World Rankings

Manchester School of Architecture (MSA) has been ranked 5th in the QS World Subject Rankings and 2nd in the UK (2024).

Teaching Excellence Framework 2023

Rated an "outstanding" university

Manchester Met received overall Gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework 2023-2027.

Times Higher Education

Student satisfaction

We're ranked in the top 30 UK universities for student satisfaction, according to the Times Higher Education.

Research Excellence Framework REF 2021 logo

Research with impact

90% of our research is world-leading or internationally excellent, according to the Research Excellence Framework (2021).

Course listing

Courses (5)

MA

Architecture and Adaptive Reuse

Postgraduate
PgCert

Architecture and Contemporary Practice (RIBA Part 3)

Postgraduate
MA

Architecture and Urbanism

Postgraduate
MArch

Master of Architecture

Postgraduate
MLA

Master of Landscape Architecture

Postgraduate

Meet us

Our open days and webinars can help with your study decision.

Go to Meet us
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