Architecture International Foundation
This design-led course prepares you for your undergraduate degree in Architecture at Newcastle University. This course is full time for 3 or 4 terms.
Course overview
Interested in progressing to Year 1 of a RIBA-accredited Architecture or RTPI-accredited Planning degree?
This course introduces you to an explorative and creative route into architecture. You will explore key aspects of architecture such as space, materiality and aesthetic qualities.
This course is suitable if you:
- need to improve your English language study skills within the context of architecture
- want to increase your subject knowledge of architecture
Expand your skills and knowledge on various projects and tasks including:
- from two to three dimensions
- sketching and drawing
- constructing physical models
You will also learn how to research, analyse and present your work effectively thanks to your improved language and communication skills.
Successful completion of this programme will lead to you being awarded our International Foundation Certificate (RQF Level 3).
Progression
You're guaranteed a place on one of our designated undergraduate degrees at Newcastle if you successfully complete the International Foundation in Architecture.
As a successful pathway student, you’ll have access to a number of Newcastle progression options. Each progression option will follow a specific pathway and specific requirements for both English/study skills and overall grade. You’ll also find some courses have specific requirements, such as:
- successfully completing an interview;
- having previously studied a relevant discipline;
- having previously completed a degree; or
- having IELTS 6.0 or equivalent in English language
Your progression options:
- Architecture BA Honours (K100)
- Architecture and Urban Planning BA Honours (K190)
- Urban Planning BA Honours (K421)
- Master of Planning MPlan Honours (K400)
Quality and ranking
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9th in the UK – The Complete University Guide 2025 (Town and Country Planning, Landscape category)
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11th in the UK – The Guardian University Guide 2024 (Architecture category)
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9th in the UK – The Guardian University Guide 2024 (Construction, Surveying and Planning category)
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Top 100 for Architecture/Built Environment - QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024
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9th in the UK – Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024 (Town and Country Planning and Landscape category)
Core modules (80 credits)
Architecture, Culture and History (20 credits)
This module introduces the historical background and cultural context of architecture, providing an overview of developments and particularities of the UK in their cultural context.
You will gain a basic understanding of urban development and an introduction to relevant theories and philosophies that have informed and influenced architecture and urban development.
You will be introduced to some of the most significant architectural periods, enabling you to recognise architectural styles and their historical context. Field-tasks allow you to exercise the acquired skills and knowledge.
The module is linked to Introduction to Architecture and will help develop your personal thought framework for design.
English for Academic Purposes (40 credits)
This module is designed to help you develop your skills and confidence in academic English. Four key skill areas are developed in an integrated and task-oriented way:
- reading
- writing
- listening
- speaking
The module will encourage you to take responsibility for your learning and a lot of emphasis is placed on:
- private study
- student research
- student-led presentations
- seminar discussions
- e-learning
- group work
Architectural Communication (20 credits)
This module aims to enable students to process, transform and communicate information in support of design projects and culminating in an architectural portfolio.
The module focuses on practical professional skills such as sketching, documenting and drawing as well as on communication and presentation skills, both manual and digital.
This is complemented by an introduction to research methods, with particular emphasis on precedent studies in support of design projects.
Specialist modules (40 credits)
Introduction to Architecture 1
This module introduces students to the foundational elements of architectural design through lectures, study trips, design projects, tutorials and skills workshops.
The conveyed content is intended to stimulate and strengthen personal interests in architecture, develop general design skills and promote a comprehensive understanding of architecture and its contexts.
Introduction to Architecture 2
This module aims to sharpen and test the knowledge gained during semester 1 through a small-scale architectural design project.
Students learn to apply basic principles of site analysis, considering the environmental, social and cultural implications of architectural intervention. Basic construction methods are introduced, and students gain a deeper understanding of materiality, scale and form.
Teaching and assessment
Teaching
Class hours: 21 hours per week minimum
Class sizes: Average of 20 students per class for English language teaching
Age requirement: 17 years and above
Assessment
Entry to all honours degrees at Newcastle University is highly competitive, and students hoping to progress to Newcastle must maintain high standards throughout their programme.
Whilst your grades in the Foundation programme do not count towards the final degree, your performance will be used to determine whether you meet the specified progression grades for direct entry to your chosen degree at the University. Assessment is both formal and informal.
Informally you will be given advice and feedback throughout your programme from your teachers. You will also be assessed via a combination of examinations at the end of each semester and coursework including
- a design portfolio
- design project
- sketch books
- written essays
- reports
- practical exercises
- group and individual research projects
- bibliographical searches
- oral and video presentations
- problem solving
Careers and employability
Entry requirements
To study on this course you need to meet the following entry requirements.
All candidates are considered on an individual basis. If your qualifications are not listed here, please see our additional entry requirements web pages to find out which other qualifications are considered.
The entrance requirements below apply to 2024-25 entry.
Portfolio requirements
You will be expected to provide a portfolio as part of the application. The portfolio should demonstrate core skills and illustrate your genuine interest in architecture. It must:
- include at least 12 annotated pieces of work (sketches, drawings, photographs of models, art work etc.)
- be on A3 sheets (see portfolio guidelines below),
- include title and contents page and a personal statement (300 words).
Portfolio Categories: There are three compulsory categories - 'Where I live', 'What I do' and 'What I want to be'. Within these categories there are mandatory and optional elements. Additionally, you are free to add another personal category and/or whatever pieces of work you consider important to illustrate your talents and skills.
View the Foundation in Architecture portfolio guidelines
Portfolios that do not comply with these guidelines will not be considered suitable for entry and applicants will be required to resubmit. Portfolio review takes place throughout the year.
Additional fees
Studio fee: £500
Enrolment fee: an extra charge of £250 per academic course, charged on confirmation
Text books: £75 - £415
Accommodation is not included in the fees. View your INTO Newcastle accommodation options.