Explore forms of architectural practice and design social and ecological architecture projects that are both innovative and sustainable.

About the apprenticeship

Course length: typically 4 years, part-time

Start date: September

Course level: Level 7

University award: MArch Architecture

How much it costs: funded through the employer

Accredited by: Architects Registration Board (ARB) and Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA)

Course summary

• Create architectural and urban design with a social and ecological focus
• Put your learning into practice on live architectural projects in the workplace
• Prepare for applying to be a registered architect when you've completed the course

You'll gain skills in design, urbanism, critical thinking, sustainable design and creative approaches to construction and technology.

In the first 3 years you'll study for the MArch, (the RIBA Part 2 qualification) and in year 4 you'll study for the Advanced Diploma in Professional Practice in Architecture (the RIBA Part 3 qualification). 

The course is fully supported by active staff research into architectural, community-led, digital, environmental and structural design – as well as new models of practice and sustainable strategies for planning and urban ecologies. Once completed, you'll be in a great position to apply to become a registered architect.

This course meets the national architect apprenticeship standard.

How you learn

Our design and written modules include extensive input from our local, national and international network of architects, artists, designers, local authority actors and community groups. The course also explores the changing nature of architectural practice.

You will learn through:

• attending the course at Sheffield Hallam one day per week
• regular guest lectures from leading architects
• applying your learning on live projects
• field trips to London and Europe
• community-led design
• developing briefs
• academic and report writing

You will progress through the course following successful completion of assessments, which address the learning outcomes for each module and allow you to complete the course.

You will also complete an end-point assessment towards the end of the apprenticeship.

Take a look at current and past students’ work.

Campus facilities

You'll learn in modern facilities in our Natural and Built Environment Department based at our City Campus.

You'll have access to:

• 24/7 design studios
• workshops with laser cutters
• CNC routers
• 3D printing facilities
• extensive CAD and other digital software

Entry requirements

Throughout the course, apprentices spend at least 20% of their working hours at university. They can be existing employees looking to develop their careers, or new applicants to the business.

Applicants must:

• be over 18
• not be in full time education
• have the right to abode in the UK
• meet the course entry requirements

GCSE (or equivalent)

Maths and English at level 2 or above (grade 4, or previously C)

If you don't have this yet, you'll need to achieve this level before you take your end-point assessment.

University grades

BSc (Hons) degree at 2:2 level or above

Additional qualifications

You'll need a minimum of an Architects Registration Board (ARB) prescribed Part 1 qualification, or Part 1 equivalent as prescribed by the ARB to apply.

Modules

The programme adopts a blended learning approach with modules delivered through a combination of lectures, practical work and independent study.

Throughout the course, you will study:

• Design studio 4
• Praxis 1 theory and recent history
• Praxis 2 expanding practice
• Design studio 5
• Praxis 3 developing your agenda for practice
• Construction ecologies
• Critical study
• Design studio 6
• Integrated practice

Module and assessment information for future years is displayed as currently validated and may be liable to change.