Course Overview

Architecture is one of the few subjects in the University that combines the intellectual challenge of a Cambridge Tripos with the opportunity for creative design. The course provides a grounding in the wide-ranging principles of architectural design through both lecture-based courses and studio-based design work. Cambridge places a particular emphasis on how human activity relates to the built environment.

The design work is at the core of the course and serves as an instrument for developing an informed yet personal attitude towards the subject. From the very start students are involved in the process of making, necessitating rapid and continuous judgement. This development of personal judgement is perhaps the main reason for coming to University, and in Architecture perhaps more than many subjects there is no 'right answer': you cannot be told what the examiners are looking for.

Find out more about the course here.

Facts and Figures

Average intake each year: 2

Typical A Level offer: A*AA

Typical IB offer: 41 – 42 points with 776 at Higher Level

We may modify offers to take account of individual circumstances.

Essential subjects: A Level or IB High Level Mathematics is highly desirable for this course

Useful subjects: A Level Mathematics, Physics, Art or equivalent

Application Process

A portfolio review will form part of the interview process. Applicants are expected to show a portfolio of recent work, which may include (but is not limited to) drawings, sketchbooks, art projects and photographs of 3D work.

Applicants invited for interview are required to sit the Architecture assessment. More information can be found on the University website.

Interviews will normally be either two shorter interviews (approximately 20 minutes each) or one longer interview of approximately 40 minutes.

Director of Studies

Mr Eric Martin

Find Out More

The College runs an Architecture Design Competition for Year 12 (England and Wales), S5 (Scotland), Year 13 (Northern Ireland) or equivalent students every year. 

You can find out about upcoming events and open days here.