Architecture and Landscape Architecture Pre-Masters
This pathway course will prepare you for architecture-related master's study at Newcastle University.
Course overview
This course will introduce you to complex architectural settings. It's equal to the final year of a related BA course. The design projects you work on suit a variety of backgrounds. They include elements like:
- architectural design
- urban planning
- landscape architecture
The flexibility of the projects means that there are a variety of progression routes for you. You can develop your specialist interest depending on the progression route you have in mind.
Find out which degrees you can progress to
This course is suitable if you:
- need to upgrade your undergraduate degree ready for architectural postgraduate study in the UK
- want to increase your subject knowledge of architecture
- need to improve your English language study skills within the context of architecture
If you pass this course you'll receive an International Pre-Masters in Higher Education (FHEQ Level 6).
Architecture 1
You'll develop your architectural knowledge and practical skills. You'll become familiar with particular socio-economic and environmental developments in Britain and Europe.
You'll enhance your contextual understanding of architecture and its complexities.
You'll learn through:
- lectures
- workshops
- field trips
Through practical tasks you'll:
- apply your new knowledge
- develop design and communication skills
- establish well-reasoned holistic design strategies
Architecture 2
You'll develop your interdisciplinary holistic approach to architecture and urban planning through:
- subject-specific lectures
- field trips
- research exercises
For your professional development, you'll present your proposals to professional guest critics.
Depending on your interests, ability and experience, you can base your project on:
- architectural design
- urban planning
- urban planning and architectural theory
Architecture, history and culture
This module provides a contextual and holistic understanding of the built environment. You'll study current theories and manifestos of influential architects. This includes investigating how theory impacts on design decisions.
You'll investigate the historic development of urban structures and human landscapes. This is in the context of cultural and economic development. Your existing knowledge of architectural history will develop with a focus on:
- 20th and 21st century developments
- contemporary currents
- socio-cultural contexts
- the impact of globalisation
- ecological challenges
You'll cover UK specific cultural developments and their impact on the built environment.
Professional studies
We'll prepare you for postgraduate study and research methods. You'll cover specific communication and presentation techniques for architecture, planning and landscape design.
The module includes:
- effective data collection
- evaluation and analysis
- research methods in the field of architecture and urban planning
- advanced communication and presentation techniques
- advanced computing skills, such as CAD and 3D rendering
English for academic purposes
You'll develop your English skills so you are ready for postgraduate study. Your ability to write essays at this level is the most important focus. You will have guidance in all aspects of academic writing, including:
- critical reading
- synthesis of sources
- text-level organisation
- academic written style
In class you will work in pairs or groups on problem-solving tasks. We'll also develop your independent learning through focused support
Assessment methods
This course has both formal and informal assessments. They'll help you build on your successes and meet the entry requirements needed for postgraduate study at Newcastle.
Academic module assessments typically include:
- an architecture portfolio
- a design project
- written assignments
- group project work
- oral presentations
- written examinations
The research component assesses your final written research project.
Your English language and communications skills assessments include:
- written assignments
- oral presentations
- interviews
- written examinations
This course is brought to you by INTO Newcastle University.
We work in partnership with INTO to provide diverse study options for international students.
Choosing this course means that you'll get:
- a quality-assured university course
- full Newcastle University status
- a conditional offer on a designated master's degree at Newcastle
- a campus-based course with access to INTO and University facilities (subject to COVID-19 restrictions)
- active learning in your subject areas with guidance on appropriate study methods
- a very supportive study environment
Studying abroad with INTO: A day in the life with Maggie
For more information see our International Preparation Courses website
Progression routes and requirements
Design Route Progression
To progress onto your chosen postgraduate degree at Newcastle, you need to pass this course with:
- a minimum of 65% (IELTS 6.5) in English for Academic Purposes
- an average mark of 55% overall with a minimum of 60% in Design 1 and Design 2 modules. The MArch requirements are a minimum of 70% in Design 1 and Design 2 modules*
- no less than 40% in any other academic module
Your design route progression options:
Other fees and costs
Additional course-related fees for International Pre-Masters in Architecture and Landscape Architecture (2023/24)
Your tuition fees do not include the following:
Enrolment fee (compulsory)
An extra charge of £250 per academic course, charged on confirmation.
Textbooks (compulsory)
The cost of your textbooks varies depending on how many terms you study. Three terms will cost approximately £300 per academic course.
Studio fee (compulsory)
An extra charge of £500 for the use of the studio for your architectural studies.
Airport pick-up (optional)
Studying overseas is a big step and we can arrange to pick you up from the airport. We'll meet you at Newcastle International Airport and take you to your accommodation. This is an optional service at a cost of £42.
If you're under 18 you must use our airport pick-up service, or agree alternative arrangements with us in advance.
Social programme (optional)
Activity costs range from free - £20
Accommodation
Accommodation is not included in the fees. View your INTO Newcastle accommodation options.
Entry requirements
To study on this course you need to meet the following entry requirements.
Academic requirements
You need a:
- an undergraduate degree with suitable grades, OR
- diploma (3-5 years) with good grades
Portfolio
If you want to progress to a design course at Newcastle University, you need to provide a portfolio. Your portfolio should show a variety of architecture related core skills and abilities:
- sketching
- drawing
- model making
- graphical presentation
- use of electronic tools, such as CAD and Photoshop to a graduate standard
Your work should:
- show good academic and intellectual skills, such as critical analysis and methodical research
- demonstrate design development and analytical processes
- include recent creative work, whether personal, academic or professional
- best represent you and your interests
For more guidance read the portfolio guidelines.
If you want to progress to a non-design course you don't have to submit a portfolio. Instead, you will need to provide a statement outlining your:
- academic achievements
- relevant research projects
- any other evidence of skills and experience
CV
You need to include your curriculum vitae (CV), which should detail:
- your qualifications
- previous work experience
- employment
- professional ambitions
English requirements
- For a 3 term programme: A minimum of IELTS 5.5 (with a minimum of 5.5 in all subskills) or an equivalent score
- For a 4 term programme: minimum of IELTS 5.0 (with a minimum of 5.0 in all subskills) or an equivalent score
The INTO Newcastle Centre also accepts other Secure English Language Tests (SELTS). The INTO Newcastle website has guidance about UKVI IELTS. You can contact us for more details.
Age
You need to be 17 years old, or older. If you want to start this course in September then you must be 17 by 31 December.
For all other start dates, you must be 17 years old by the time the course starts.
How to apply
You can apply online through the INTO Newcastle application form.
You'll need to create a free account to apply for your chosen course. You can apply for accommodation at the same time as the course.