Architecture  with Foundation Year BA (Hons)

Our Architecture graduates are among the top 2 for highest graduate salaries for this subject area in the UK (LEO Data, 2025)

We’ve been offering architectural education for over 100 years, with roots in London Council School of Building (1904) and Brixton School of Building (1940)

This course is validated by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), providing the first of three steps towards becoming a qualified architect.

Overview
Course Content
Teaching and Assessment
Careers
Entry Requirements
Apply
Fees

Overview

Laying the groundwork for success in Architecture

Not everyone takes the same route into university, and that’s ok.

If you’re passionate about working in architecture but don’t quite meet the entry requirements for Architecture BA (Hons), then this course is for you.

The Foundation Year is your opportunity to step into Higher Education while building the confidence, skills, and knowledge you need to succeed. In just one year, we’ll help you gain a solid foundation and get ready to take on our Architecture degree.

We’ve designed the Foundation Year to give you a well-rounded start, with exciting new topics in technology, communicating ideas, and collaborative real-world projects – all building the strong foundations you’ll need to thrive in today’s fast-moving architecture industry.

Your next step: the degree

This degree programme encourages you to think beyond technical skills and develop the mindset of an architect - looking beyond buildings as objects to understand how people experience spaces in everyday life.

With a curriculum built around community-first design, you’ll explore themes such as materials and craft, reuse and repair, public space and belonging, thresholds and neighbourhoods, climate and comfort, movement and making. Through live local projects, discussion and hands-on studio work, you’ll learn how architecture can respond meaningfully to real social contexts.

This is a hands-on, creative and rewarding degree. You’ll learn by doing - developing ideas through drawing, sketching, modelling and making; and use digital and physical tools to test and refine your designs. Alongside studio work, you’ll explore how architecture has developed over time, learn how buildings are constructed, and design with sustainability in mind.

At LSBU, London is your classroom. Studying in Central London puts you at the heart of one of the world’s most inspiring built environments. From our dedicated studio spaces on the 6th, 7th and 8th floors, you’ll look out across London’s skyline, where iconic landmarks offer daily inspiration.

You’ll explore the city through site and building visits, walking studies and fieldwork. Your immediate neighbourhood of Elephant and Castle plays a central role in studio teaching. As a major area of regeneration, it offers a living laboratory where students engage directly with questions of community, public space, reuse, repair and belonging. Studio projects are shaped by real places and real partners, bringing social purpose into the design process.

You’ll be taught by research active, industry-experienced academics with extensive professional knowledge and networks. Our staff have received global acclaim for groundbreaking research, and contributed to major projects such as the extension of the Leicester City football stadium. We’ve also exhibited at Venice Biennale, and advanced the conversation on women in architecture around the world.

To prepare you for professional practice, you’ll work in industry-ready facilities. You’ll have access to dedicated studio spaces that foster a culture of sketching, model making, discussion and critique, alongside facilities that encourage experimentation and precision. Facilities include timber and metal workshops, rapid prototyping, laser cutting, 3D printing, robotic fabrication, digital visualisation and scanning, an animation studio and a virtual reality headset.

Past students have won awards for their ideas and contributions towards on-going social initiatives. Browse the 2025 Architecture End of Year Show catalogue to see how they have taken their ideas into the world.

Meet Pele, Architecture student

Is this course right for me?

If you’re a community-focused and collaborative person, then this is the course for you. If you’re academically curious and technically minded, with a creative flair, then this is the course for you. If you’re ready to learn hands-on and take on new challenges, then this is the course for you. No matter your personality, background, or way of thinking, whether you’re introverted or extroverted, neurotypical or neurodiverse, there’s a place for you in Architecture at LSBU.

Above all though, if you’re hungry to create your own version of success then LSBU is right for you. Because the making of you doesn’t begin and end with just your degree, everything that’s brought you here today is part of your story; your experiences, the life you’ve lived, the skills you’ve gained and the goals you’re chasing.

Not only do we see this, but we value that in you. We’re not in the business of forcing you into moulds, instead we’re here to help you break them. If you’re ready to embark on a journey of hard work, fulfilment and self-discovery, then Architecture at LSBU is definitely right for you.

Explore life as an Architecture student

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Course Content

What will I learn?

The Foundation Year

You’ll study a shared Foundation Year across the College of Technology and Environment, with broad-based modules instead of subject-specific ones. This year will give you:

A well-rounded learning experience where you can explore ideas across different subject areas.

The chance to build on your previous qualifications (e.g. A-levels or International Foundation) and strengthen your academic skills.

Fresh, future-focused topics in sustainability, AI, and collaborative real-world projects.

Flexibility in your first year, with the option to move between courses in the College if your plans change.

The degree programme

Once you’ve built strong study skills on the foundation course, you’ll be ready to progress to the full degree programme.

What makes LSBU unique is how everything connects. Your design projects link directly with technology and communication modules, while history and theory help you understand the ideas behind your work. This joined-up approach means each part of the course supports the others, helping you develop as a confident and well-rounded designer.

In your first year, you’ll be introduced to core architectural ideas through hands-on making, drawing, observation and discussion. Using our campus, Elephant and Castle and nearby community sites as your living classroom, you’ll explore how people move, gather, work, rest and play. You’ll then turn these observations into design proposals through sketching, model making, measured drawing, digital tools and regular site and building visits.

In Years 2 and 3, you’ll build on these skills as projects expand to wider social and urban contexts. In your second year, you’ll complete three architectural design projects, each exploring more complex themes and places. You’ll research, test ideas and develop your work in a supportive studio environment.

In your third year, you’ll take on more detailed and ambitious studio projects, spending more time developing resolved design proposals. These projects are closely linked to technology, structures and professional practice, helping you bring together your creative ideas and technical knowledge at a higher level.

This module introduces students to sustainability and environmental impact through a multidisciplinary lens, spanning computing, electronics, and the built environment. Working in teams, students investigate a real-world societal challenge, apply core scientific and technical principles, and produce a group video or presentation and individual one-page visual summary of their proposed solution. The module encourages collaboration, practical measurement, and sustainable thinking across disciplines. Assessment method: 100% coursework

This module introduces design thinking. Students work through studio and workshop-based learning to explore spatial, cultural, and environmental ideas. Core skills include drawing, model making, and digital tools for visual communication. The module fosters conceptual creativity, critical analysis, and awareness of context, building a foundation for design-led study.
Assessment method: 100% coursework

This module develops academic writing, research, and safe workshop practice alongside numeracy and communication. Students work independently and in teams, apply the scientific method, and use digital tools to complete practical and written tasks. The module also supports personal development planning and successful transition into higher education. Assessment method: 100% coursework

Students develop hands-on skills in working with data drawn from real-world sources such as engineering sensors, web platforms, and building systems. Through spreadsheets, basic coding, and visualisation tools, students learn to analyse data, build simple models, and present evidence-based findings. The module fosters critical thinking and responsible use of data. Assessment method: 100% coursework

This module builds essential skills in mathematics, statistics, and spatial reasoning to support engineering, computing, and design studies. Students work with trigonometry, coordinate systems, data visualisation, and CAD tools to solve structured problems. The module enhances analytical confidence and supports transition to Level 4 study. Assessment methods: Coursework 1 (50%), Coursework 2 (50%)

This module uses fast-paced “sprints” to immerses students in authentic engineering design problem-solving through intensive practical projects. Students will tackle real-world scenarios, fostering practical skills and theoretical understanding. Indicative content woven into these projects includes chemistry fundamentals, materials science (manufacturing, characterisation, corrosion/erosion), electric and magnetic circuits, basic mechatronics (combination of mechanical and electrical systems), computer interfaces and data acquisition/processing. Students will gain hands-on prototyping experience in workshops (woodwork/metalwork) and with additive manufacturing, bridging theoretical knowledge with practical application in an engaging, project-based learning environment. Assessment method: 100% coursework

We will welcome you into a large studio space, which is then divided into groups working on principles of architectural design and creative practices. Year 01 design studio focuses on sketching, model-making, drawing, site and building visits. Once you have completed your first year of study, you’ll have a wide choice of design studios to choose from where you learn about the many different approaches to architecture and design, whilst working with your peers and independently.

The module introduces key concepts and conveys applicable skills through a series of analytical and observational exercises, short design studies and projects, built upon on a weekly basis. It focuses on investigating context, the use of precedent, and an understanding of space, scale, urban form and the human body. This module seeks to inspire critical awareness of architecture, the city, its concepts, language and representation. Assessment method: 100% coursework.

This module is an introduction to architectural history and theory, providing an outline survey of key concepts, buildings, cities, movements and personalities in the world of architecture. Assessment methods: 50% coursework, 50% exam.

This module comprises of one structure and one construction component, and provides an introduction to structures, materials, construction and environmental principles, as well as an insight into their integration in an architectural design process. Assessment method: 100% coursework.

This module comprises an introduction to techniques of 2D and 3D visual communication, including drawing, model making, digital and experimental media. Assessment method: 100% coursework.

In year 2 you will work on three architectural design projects throughout the year, each with specific themes and context for you to research and explore.

This module draws upon references from contemporary arts practice and individual experimentation with a range of digital and analogue media. You'll undertake design projects with the expanded understanding of context from a physical to a wider, systemic and cultural notion, which will be addressed through the design of an object or installation presented in a final design event. This module aims to introduce the themes of second year design, develop your knowledge of and critical capacity in a wider contemporary cultural context and encourage the development of individual working processes and methodologies through observation, reflection and experimentation. Assessment method: 100% coursework.

In this module, you'll be invited to investigate the relationship between site, programme, and architectural concepts through the design of enclosing structures. You will learn how to correctly and imaginatively interpret and evolve a brief, its relationship with appropriate architectural concepts including context, scale, space, form, structure and its spatial resolution correctly and imaginati. Assessment method: 100% coursework.

This module will demonstrate, through a series of case studies, buildings situated in their particular socio-economic, political and physical contexts, from the period after the industrial revolution. Assessment method: 100% coursework.

This module investigates building technology from small to large buildings through precedent studies, with lectures dedicated to traditional, contemporary and emergent construction techniques, it will help you identify and formulate the technological principles to be applied to your design project. Assessment methods: 40% coursework, 60% exam.

This module uses a discrete design project to familiarise you with the skills, techniques and methodologies pertinent to digital design and automated manufacture. Assessment method: 100% coursework.

You will engage with more complex design studio projects, with more time to resolve detailed design solutions, linked to technology and structures.

As the first of the third year design modules, this module is designed to introduce you to the ambition and scope of third year design, set the philosophical and systemic context for the year’s design investigations, and reinforce the importance of group work and peer learning. It consists of group analysis, group and individual design and focuses on observing, interpreting and positively influencing complex urban relationships. Assessment method: 100% coursework.

This module is based in the design studio and generates a detailed analysis of physical, cultural, social and economic context. It develops an understanding of the spatial organisation and form of buildings. You will be asked to investigate an area of the city, from which you will develop a client brief. You will then select one of the sites proposed by the studio tutors, and develop a design for the site, responding to both the context and to the building programme. The module enables you to become aware of design approaches, ideas and methodologies for the final design project in Design 303. Assessment method: 100% coursework.

This module concerns the theoretical underpinnings of architecture and philosophical aspects of its interpretation by exploring the meaning, interpretation, history and relevance of ideas in architecture. You will be asked to analyse and investigate a specific site and to develop an architectural position, which will be used to inform a
given framework brief. The aim is to utilise the design of a building and its physical context to interrogate, test, illustrate and explain an understanding of a specific urban context and its
relationship with an architectural proposal. Assessment method: 100% coursework.

The module completes the study of construction technology, environmental design and their application in building design to the level defined in the criteria for RIBA Part 1 and linked to the Design 303 project.

This module fulfils the requirements for knowledge of the wider role and duties of the architect in relation to society and the construction industry as set out in the RIBA Part 1 criteria. Assessment method: 100% coursework.

The acquisition of core design skills and knowledge is central to the programme and these are developed through studio activities, and the completion of design projects forming the most significant element in the preparation of the design portfolio. We encourage a creative and analytical approach to design using models, drawings and computer graphics to explore a wide range of design methodologies. Studio activity includes learning how to communicate ideas, both verbally and visually, to tutors and fellow students. The presentation of your work and the feedback you receive is referred to as a 'crit', 'review', or ‘jury’ and is an opportunity for you to explain your approach to the design process - and to clarify your ideas in relation to the work of others.

Structural, constructional, and environmental technologies are integral parts of the design process from concept to final site ready proposal. In year 1, the principles of these technologies are learnt and this knowledge is developed and applied in years 2 and 3 of the programme. The technology and environment syllabus is delivered in lectures and workshops and generally assessed by means of coursework as an integral part of design studio work. You'll be able to use technology as a driver in architectural thinking and then apply the skills, knowledge and understanding acquired within your design projects.

The three year cultural context programme comprises four history and theory modules. These position the individual student within the wide subject area of architecture, establishing views on the role of architecture within a society’s culture, covering the ethical and rational critique of architecture, and the application of philosophical thought to architecture. The theory modules establish rigour in thinking, critical investigation, the application and organisation of research, writing skills, and referencing. When making your own proposals in the studio, studies in the histories and theories of architecture encourage awareness of architecture from a range of sources, and the diverse design methodologies underpinning these.

Communications studies involve hand drawing and modelling, and the acquisition of advanced computer skills. Communications 1 introduces both 2- and 3D hand and digital drawing; Digital Media 2 covers the basics of 3D computer modelling and fabrication, and is connected to a studio design project. The understanding of professional drawing and rendering software is an essential part of the programme, and a key skill to ensure employability.

All third year students are introduced to professional practice through a series of lectures and case studies. The lecture-based teaching is delivered by practitioners and representatives from the regulatory bodies. You’ll be required to manage and appraise your own working practices with respect to your final year's work; you are also taught how to prepare a CV and search for work. You are also encouraged to visit an architect's office in preparation for working in practice, and to participate in the RIBA Mentoring scheme.

* Modules are subject to review and change throughout the year.

Where will I learn?

Explore life at LSBU from anywhere - Take a virtual tour to explore our campus, discover key facilities and experience what student life is like.

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Teaching and Assessment

How will I learn?

In your foundation year, you’ll be assessed entirely through coursework, giving you the chance to focus on developing your skills without the pressure of exams.

This approach sets the groundwork for your degree, where you’ll apply theory to practice at every stage. From group projects and real-life case studies to industry placements, everything is designed to help you gain confidence, build experience, and prepare for the world of work.

This is a hands-on and creative course, with design projects making up more than half of your assessed work. Most learning takes place in the design studio, where you’ll develop ideas through drawing, making, discussion and testing, supported by tutors throughout the process. You’ll learn through live projects, site and building visits, field trips, workshops, lectures and one-to-one tutorials, with regular studio crits and pin-ups helping you share work, receive feedback and build confidence.

Many projects are shaped by real places and local partners, so your work connects directly to the world around you. We have previously worked with organisations such as Ministry of Sound and are currently collaborating with BABS Community Garden at the Clarence Centre Courtyard. You’ll also work across year groups and take part in community-first design challenges, joining one of six themed design studios in Years 2 and 3. Learning alongside apprentices brings practice-based insight into studio discussions and helps bridge the gap between study and professional practice.

You’ll develop your ideas using industry-standard facilities, including dedicated studio spaces and making workshops. You’ll work at different scales - from hand sketches and physical models to digital prototypes. Equipment use is included as part of your course; materials are paid for by students. Together, this approach helps you build confidence, creativity and practical skills for contemporary architectural practice.

Careers

What's in it for me?

Going to university might just be the biggest investment you ever make, but with us by your side you can turn a degree into a bright future, full of purpose, passion and career you can be proud of (which may be why our graduates earn the highest average salaries across London Modern universities).

With Architecture at LSBU you get:

Professional accreditation and full validation by the Royal Institute of British Architects and the Architects Registration Board

Access to a range of exciting events that help grow your professional network and architectural experience

Trained in industry-standard facilities that get you ready for the world of work and replicate a real architectural firm

To work on community projects through our connections with organisations such as Southwark Council, English Heritage and We Are Waterloo

The chance to undertake placements and apprenticeships, past students have trained with firms like RSHP, Grimshaw Architects and Scene Architects

A supportive and inspiring environment – 100% of students say that teachers supported their learning well (Discover Uni)

Flexibility in career paths — some students go on to complete all three parts of their RIBA training, while others take their degree into creative fields such as interior design, fashion, or urban planning. None of these paths is less valid than the other; we nurture all ambitions and help you shape the career that’s right for you.

An end-of-year show where students showcase their skills to industry contacts at local, national, and international levels, giving you the chance to present your work to a professional audience and make meaningful connections. Browse the work from the 2025 show on Dezeen .

We actively build strong professional links by involving practitioners in teaching and studio sessions, and hosting lectures with guest speakers ranging from emerging architects to internationally recognised design researchers. These links help you gain the skills that employers really want.

Guest lecturers from the past have included:

Prof Iain Borden, Professor of Architecture and Urban Culture at University College London

Dr Andrew Wilson, Senior Lecturer in Architecture at University of Queensland

Sophie McCarthy, Design Director at Atomik Architecture

Ian Bogle, Creative Director at Bogle Architects

Stephen Hadley, Associate Director at Stanton Williams

Kevin Coello, Architecture Assistant at Stanton Williams

Accreditation

Our courses are validated by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), and prescribed by the Architects Registration Board for RIBA part 1, RIBA part 2 and RIBA part 3.

The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) is the professional members' organisation for architects that champions better buildings, communities, and the environment through architecture. They’ll provide you with guidance on professional standards, training, support, and recognition, helping you rise to the peak of your professional on a global scale.

LSBU CareerSmart is your ultimate gateway to career success. Our innovative programme is designed to ensure you graduate with more than just a degree, providing the support you need to stand out in a competitive job market. We've got all the tools you need, including:

AI Powered Career Sets - Get instant personalised feedback on your CV and cover letter by submitting it via our AI powered career tool.
Gamification Interviews - Get ready to pass those interviews with unlimited training access to our gamification interviews and psychometric tests!
Personalised Career Development Dashboard - Keep up with your skills progression with free access to practical assessments, LinkedIn learning, mentoring, and industry-standard facilities.

We understand that you’re in the driver’s seat of your career, which is why we’re committed to matching your passion and energy every step of the way.

Find out more

Entry Level Requirements

64 UCAS tariff points. Visit UCAS for guidance on the tariff.

GCSE Maths or equivalent, grade 4 or above.

If you do not meet the entry criteria above we also review any previous skills, knowledge or experience you have gained outside of your education and are happy to talk through any extenuating circumstances you feel relevant.

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Apply

Course delivery modes and application methods

Mode	Duration	Start date	Application code	Application method
Full-time	4 years	September	K10F	UCAS

International (non Home) applicants should follow our international how to apply guide.

How to apply

Read more about how to apply for undergraduate courses.

International students

International applicants can apply directly to LSBU and should consult our international how to apply guide for further information on the application process and key dates.

Accommodation

Read more about applying for accommodation at LSBU.

Prepare to start

Applicant events

After you’ve received your offer we’ll send you emails about events we run to help you prepare for your course. You’ll also be invited to our Applicant Taster Day so keep your eyes peeled!

Enrolment

Before you start your course, we’ll send you information on what you’ll need to do before you arrive and during your first few days on campus. You can read about the process on our enrolment pages.

Fees

United Kingdom

£9790

Tuition fees for home students

International

£17400

Tuition fees for international students

Tuition fees are subject to annual inflationary increases. Find out more about tuition fees for Undergraduate or Postgraduate courses.

full-time

Year 1

Year 2

Year 3

Year 4

Full-time Year 1 - All Available Courses

BA (Hons) Architecture (with Foundation Year) (FT) - Year 1 FT Southwark SEPT

The fee shown is for entry 2026/27
UK fee: £9790	International fee: £17400
AOS/LSBU code: 6051	Session code: 1FS00

Total course fee for this location/stream:

* The full amount is subject to fee increases, the total shown below is based on current fees.

UK: £39160

International: £69600

Full-time Year 2 - All Available Courses

BA (Hons) Architecture (with Foundation Year) (FT) - Year 2 FT Southwark SEPT

The fee shown is for entry 2026/27
UK fee: £9790	International fee: £17400
AOS/LSBU code: 6051	Session code: 2FS00

Total course fee for this location/stream:

* The full amount is subject to fee increases, the total shown below is based on current fees.

UK: £39160

International: £69600

Full-time Year 3 - All Available Courses

BA (Hons) Architecture (with Foundation Year) (FT) - Year 3 FT Southwark SEPT

The fee shown is for entry 2026/27
UK fee: £9790	International fee: £17400
AOS/LSBU code: 6051	Session code: 3FS00

Total course fee for this location/stream:

* The full amount is subject to fee increases, the total shown below is based on current fees.

UK: £39160

International: £69600

Full-time Year 4 - All Available Courses

BA (Hons) Architecture (with Foundation Year) (FT) - Year 4 FT Southwark SEPT

The fee shown is for entry 2026/27
UK fee: £9790	International fee: £17400
AOS/LSBU code: 6051	Session code: 4FS00

Total course fee for this location/stream:

* The full amount is subject to fee increases, the total shown below is based on current fees.

UK: £39160

International: £69600

For more information, including how and when to pay, see our fees and funding section for undergraduate students.

Please check your fee status and whether you are considered a Home, EU or International student for fee-paying purposes and for our regulatory returns, by checking at the the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) find your fee status page.

Visit our Policies and procedures page for details on fees policies.

Possible fee changes

The University reserves the right to increase its fees in line with changes to legislation, regulation and any government guidance or decisions.

The fees for international students are reviewed annually and the University reserves the right to increase the tuition fees to reflect increased costs of delivery and to maintain an a high-quality student experience. This increase would be no more than Consumer Prices Index (CPI) increases plus 5%.

Scholarships

We offer several types of fee reduction through our scholarships and bursaries. Find the full list and other useful information on our scholarships page.