Architecture and Landscape BA

2024-25 entry
School of Architecture
Department of Landscape Architecture

Gain two professional qualifications, in architecture and landscape architecture, with this unique three year honours degree. The dual degree course is an exciting and challenging programme which explores the integrated design of buildings and the wider landscape environment.

Key details

Explore this course:

    Course description

    Undergraduate students working on project

    Gain a professional qualification from both the Royal Institute of British Architects and the Landscape Institute, with the first integrated degree of its kind in the world.

    Studying architecture and landscape at Sheffield offers a unique opportunity to become a leading architect, landscape architect or urban designer of the future. The programme leads to qualifications in both disciplines, making for highly employable graduates with truly holistic and critical awareness of the built environment.

    In the first year you will develop proposals for a small building in a public landscape. By the third year the building and its environment will be more complex and will focus on a substantial piece of urban design.

    Teaching is delivered by staff from both departments at the forefront of their field, informing a rich learning environment, and inspiring your studio-based design projects.

    Why study this course?

    • World-leading accreditation - the course is accredited by the Landscape Institute (LI),  the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and Architects Registration Board (ARB), making it the only such course in the world.
    • Uniquely employable - the profession is keen to employ graduates from the course because of their unique dual educational experience. The course has run for over twenty years and produces highly skilled alumni, working at some leading UK and globally significant architectural and landscape practices.
    • Option to continue - graduates can continue their dual accreditation with our MArch Architecture and Landscape Architecture (MALA) course, which has accreditation from RIBA and LI.

    Dual and combined honours degrees

    Recognised by the Royal Institute of British Architects and Landscape Institute as giving exemption from Part 1.

    Prescribed by the Architects Registration Board (ARB) subject to periodic review by ARB, for the purposes of entry onto the United Kingdom Register of Architects.

    Arts Tower Drawing studio

    Modules

    A selection of modules are available each year - some examples are below. There may be changes before you start your course. From May of the year of entry, formal programme regulations will be available in our Programme Regulations Finder.

    Choose a year to see modules for a level of study:

    Title: Architecture and Landscape BA course structure
    UCAS code: KK13
    Years: 2022, 2023
    First year

    Core modules:

    Introductory Environmental Design Studio

    This unit is designed to introduce students to architectural and landscape design in a studio context. The module will be structured through a series of short design projects, which students will be asked to respond to in an imaginative and critical manner. Methods of representation will be introduced, including model-making, technical drawing and sketching. Students will study a limited palette of native trees and shrubs. They will study freehand and three-dimensional abstract design as a means of evaluating, creating and representing designs. Experimentation, subjectivity and objectivity will enhance the learning process. An integrated project brief for the final semester studio project is taught jointly across the department of Landscape Architecture and Architecture and reviewed and assessed jointly. This integrated project enables students to apply the skills and knowledge they have acquired in Architecture and Landscape Architecture to a single project site.

    30 credits
    Architectural Design (Landscape) 2

    A course of studio based practical architectural design work which aims to: widen perception of architecture; introduce issues of cultural and technological significance; generate the interpretation and solution of a series of wide ranging design problems. The technical aspects of the work aims to: develop an understanding of the way building structure, construction and services inform, interpret and contribute to the architectural design process; and provide the opportunity for the demonstration of that understanding as an essential component of practical architectural design.

    20 credits
    The Dynamic Landscape

    This unit is designed to further develop the landscape design skills and knowledge gained in the 1st semester. The module runs over 12 weeks and will be largely studio-based, but there will be field trips and visits. Based on one site students will work through all the stages of design development from site analysis through to final presentation. Precedent will be used to inform practice and students will undertake self-directed study to build knowledge of the theoretical basis of the design approach in such settings. Students will further develop their understanding of and use of landform manipulation, vegetation and other built structures to create a variety of space and experience. Studio exercises and seminars will be central to the learning process. Particular emphasis will be placed on the interaction with water and approaches to the 'water's edge' in the landscape. Graphic skills, freehand and technical, needed to convey ideas at both the design development and the presentation stage (essential to the landscape architect ) will be developed with further teaching in the area of digital design communication. Development of the knowledge of vegetation, particularly native trees, and its use and place in the landscape will take place through taught sessions, field study and individual research.

    20 credits
    Environment and Technology 1

    The overall aim of the Environment and Technology modules is to provide the knowledge and ability in building technology, environmental design and construction methods that are necessary to undertake design projects in the Design Studio. This module presents principles of planet and place including:

    -  climate literacy and climate justice, building in the era of the climate emergency

    -  principles of regenerative design and ecology

    -  historical overview of solar architecture

    10 credits
    Environment and Technology 2

    The overall aim of the Environment and Technology modules is to provide the knowledge and ability in building technology, environmental design and construction methods that are necessary to undertake design projects in the Design Studio.

    This module (ARC108) and the preceding module (ARC107) are paired thematically and present principles of planet and place, including in this module:

    - designing with site and context

    - designing with climate and microclimate

    - designing with passive solar principles

    - designing with air and water

    - designing with materials and layers

    10 credits
    Humanities 1

    ARC103 explores the reciprocal relationship between architecture, the built environment and society, introducing a broad range of inhabitations and domestic settings across the world and across time. Through a multidisciplinary and cross-cultural approach lectures will examine how humans have approached their needs for shelter and inhabitation, and the relationship between domestic types and public life, both in the past and in the present. The course seeks to establish that architecture is socially contextualised through style, symbolic references, typologies, use, materiality, meaning, structure, layout, and form, and also through the framing of human activities and rituals. By adopting a global approach the course engages with broader questions of locality, exchange, and architecture's adaptability.

    10 credits
    Humanities 2

    ARC104 examines how the field of architecture is positioned in relation to its wider contexts - in particular, climate breakdown. Neither architecture nor climate are simply technical phenomena: both are social, political, and cultural; both raise questions about resources, land, economics, labour, policy, infrastructure, and more. We will explore these entanglements starting from a series of building case studies, and moving outwards to explore the wider material and immaterial networks that constitute architecture and climate. You will begin to position yourself in relation to these and other networks, and reflect on how you might encounter them in your future. Lectures will relate the physical making of the modern world to political, social, and other constructions.



    The module will introduce histories and theories of architecture yet emphasise an interdisciplinary approach that mobilises knowledge and methods from across the humanities. It aims to contribute to your development as a critical thinker and researcher and help you both define your own personal agendas and tools and evolve informed and rigorous arguments in both words and images.

    10 credits
    Reading the Designed Landscape

    This module introduces students to the full scope and diversity of landscape architecture and the role of landscape architects in tackling contemporary social and environmental issues, presenting and giving examples of the areas of practice known as design, management and planning, with particular reference to the Sheffield area. The role of the Landscape Institute is also introduced. The aim of this module is to familiarise students with the range of work undertaken by landscape architects and the challenges the profession seeks to address.

    10 credits

    The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it's up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research; funding changes; professional accreditation requirements; student or employer feedback; outcomes of reviews; and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we'll consult and inform students in good time and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption.

    Learning and assessment

    Learning

    We adopt the model of architectural education which focuses primarily around the design studio. This is supported by lectures, seminars, field trips and workshops.

    We invest to create the right environment for you. That means outstanding facilities, study spaces and support, including 24/7 online access to our online library service.

    Study spaces and computers are available to offer you choice and flexibility for your study. Our five library sites give you access to over 1.3 million books and periodicals. You can access your library account and our rich digital collections from anywhere on or off campus. Other library services include study skills training to improve your grades, and tailored advice from experts in your subject.

    Learning support facilities and library opening hours

    Our approach to architectural education is underpinned by our world-class research and our strong links to practice. In the design studio you will be guided by academic tutors and practicing architects who bring their expertise to your projects. Some run their own practices, others specialise in areas such as sustainable design, all bring the latest in architectural thinking to help guide your projects.

    Assessment

    You will be assessed through both group and individual coursework, which may include design portfolios, written reports or presentations. Feedback will be given via individual and group tutorials and studio based design reviews.

    Programme specification

    This tells you the aims and learning outcomes of this course and how these will be achieved and assessed.

    Find programme specification for this course

    Entry requirements

    With Access Sheffield, you could qualify for additional consideration or an alternative offer - find out if you're eligible.

    Standard offer

    The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
    AAA

    A Levels + a fourth Level 3 qualification
    AAB + B in Core Maths
    International Baccalaureate
    36
    BTEC Extended Diploma
    D*DD in a relevant subject
    BTEC Diploma
    DD in a relevant subject + A at A Level
    Scottish Highers + 1 Advanced Higher
    AAAAB + A
    Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels
    A + AA
    Access to HE Diploma
    Award of Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 39 at Distinction and 6 at Merit
    Other requirements
    • Evidence of artistic ability in the form of a portfolio is also required

    • GCSE Maths grade 4/C

    • We will consider your application if you have completed the UAL Extended Diploma in Art and Design in combination with an A Level in an acceptable subject

    • We will consider your application if you have taken two Art & Design A Levels if these have been taken in combination with an acceptable subject

    • Native language A Levels are not accepted

    • Relevant BTEC subjects include Engineering, Applied Science, Art and Design, Business or IT

    Access Sheffield offer

    The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
    AAB

    A Levels + a fourth Level 3 qualification
    AAB + B in Core Maths
    International Baccalaureate
    34
    BTEC Extended Diploma
    DDD in a relevant subject
    BTEC Diploma
    DD in a relevant subject + A at A Level
    Scottish Highers + 1 Advanced Higher
    AAABB + B
    Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels
    B + AA
    Access to HE Diploma
    Award of Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 36 at Distinction and 9 at Merit
    Other requirements
    • Evidence of artistic ability in the form of a portfolio is also required

    • GCSE Maths grade 4/C

    • We will consider your application if you have completed the UAL Extended Diploma in Art and Design in combination with an A Level in an acceptable subject

    • We will consider your application if you have taken two Art & Design A Levels if these have been taken in combination with an acceptable subject

    • Native language A Levels are not accepted

    • Relevant BTEC subjects include Engineering, Applied Science, Art and Design, Business or IT

    English language requirements

    You must demonstrate that your English is good enough for you to successfully complete your course. For this course we require: GCSE English Language at grade 4/C; IELTS grade of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component; or an alternative acceptable English language qualification

    Pathway programme for international students

    If you're an international student who does not meet the entry requirements for this course, you have the opportunity to apply for an International Foundation Year in Business, Social Sciences and Humanities at the University of Sheffield International College. This course is designed to develop your English language and academic skills. Upon successful completion, you can progress to degree level study at the University of Sheffield.

    If you have any questions about entry requirements, please contact the department.

    Graduate careers

    School of Architecture

    Our graduates often go into architectural practice for a year or two before doing a two-year MArch in Architecture - either at Sheffield or another school. They also pursue careers in the built environment or move on to a specialist masters course.

    Employers include AHMM, ARUP, Building Design Partnership, Haworth Tompkins Architects, Feilden Clegg Bradley, Grimshaw Architects, Hawkins\Brown, and Penoyre & Prasad.

    Graduates of our degree courses are well prepared for a career in roles such as: built environment consultant, government and local authority advisor, creative and strategic policy maker, architectural critic and journalist, arts and heritage manager and design and illustration.

    Department of Landscape Architecture

    As a landscape architecture graduate you will find yourself in high demand. Regular employability support and networking activities during your time at Sheffield will prepare you well for these future opportunities. Leading industry figures attend our end-of-year exhibition and regularly advertise vacancies with us. Our graduates work all over the world and find employment in private practice, community development agencies, local authorities and national governments.

    Alumni include a former President of the International Federation of Landscape Architects and multiple RHS medal winners.

    My time in Sheffield changed my mind, and that which I learned in the department shaped my career, allowing me to develop in different ways to undertake my professional practice

    Gloria Aponte

    Distinguished alumna of the Department of Landscape who was recently awarded the President’s Award from International Federation of Landscape Architects

    School of Architecture

    UG students working in studio

    Come to Sheffield and join some of the best architecture students in the UK - our students have won prizes at the RIBA Student Awards and the Royal Academy Summer Show. They've been shortlisted in the European Architecture Medals and the Inspiring Graduate Awards. Our staff are doing world-class research, helping to make the school a leader in our field across the UK and internationally.

    We believe in architecture that makes a difference. We know that it has the potential to improve the lives of those who inhabit and use it.

    Through our internationally-acclaimed teaching and research, we explore the social, spatial and environmental implications of architecture. As a Sheffield student, you will engage with real issues affecting the built environment and specifically the challenges of the Climate Emergency and zero carbon design.

    We encourage you to explore ideas and collaborate with other students. Through group tutorials and peer review you'll learn how to express your opinions, and value the opinions of others. Sheffield is the perfect place to develop your personality as a designer.

    We provide a balance of theory, design work and professional experience delivered within the context of a strong studio culture. The studio acts as a laboratory for trialling your creative and critical ideas, and for developing fundamental architectural skills. You'll share ideas during group tutorials and review other students' work. This encourages you to express your own opinion and to value the opinions of others, as you begin to develop your personality as a designer.

    The School of Architecture sits high up in the Arts Tower, offering unrivalled panoramic views across Sheffield and beyond. This is where you will spend the majority of your time in the design studio.

    You'll also attend lectures across the campus and take advantage of our drawing studios and facilities for woodwork, metalwork, casting and architectural model making.

    Facilities

    Our generous open-plan studios promote collaboration and you will be able to take advantage of our facilities for woodwork, metalwork, casting and architectural model making.

    You'll have access to the latest digital techniques in our computer labs which host a suite of professional Building Information Modelling and Computer Aided Design software. You can also take advantage of our digital review facilities and will have access to 360 degree capture technology.

    Workshops and tutorials are embedded into each course to ensure you have the skills you need.

    School of Architecture

    Department of Landscape Architecture

    Landscape work on display

    Landscape architecture is about the design, planning and management of places that benefit people and nature. Landscape architects create spaces between buildings that are both inspirational and functional. If you have a flair for creativity and a passion for improving the environment and people's lives, then landscape architecture could be for you.

    You'll learn from experts who are involved in some of the most exciting landscape design work in the world today.

    Sheffield is a dynamic city and an ideal place in which to study landscape architecture. Its changing face has been shaped by department-led initiatives like Grey to Green and Love Square, which give students the chance to be involved with live projects and see the difference landscape architecture can make. Sheffield combines the urban with awe-inspiring views of the neighbouring Peak District, making it a rich learning and research environment.

    Department of Landscape Architecture students are based in the Arts Tower; an iconic building with panoramic views across Sheffield. You'll also attend lectures at venues across campus and travel further afield for site visits.

    Facilities

    Our studios facilitate digital and hands-on design practice and supply everything you’ll need, including drawing boards, a wireless network and kitchen space.

    The newly opened Print and Make workshop, which comes equipped with an array of mechanical and hand tools - from laser cutters, CNC routers, bandsaws and a casting room - helps you to develop your understanding of how to design and craft with different materials.

    Department IT suites come supplied with recently upgraded, high specification computers, a range of industry standard and specialist software and are supported by an in-house team of IT and graphics experts.

    Department of Landscape Architecture

    Why choose Sheffield?

    The University of Sheffield

      Number one in the Russell Group
    National Student Survey 2023 (based on aggregate responses)

      92 per cent of our research is rated as world-leading or internationally excellent
    Research Excellence Framework 2021

      Top 50 in the most international universities rankings
    Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2023

      Number one Students' Union in the UK
    Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023, 2022, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017

      Number one for teaching quality, Students' Union and clubs/societies
    StudentCrowd 2023 University Awards

      A top 20 university targeted by employers
    The Graduate Market in 2023, High Fliers report


    School of Architecture

    3rd in the UK for architecture

    Complete University Guide 2023

    Top 5 in the UK for architecture

    The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2023 / The Guardian University Guide 2023

    Department of Landscape Architecture

    No 1 for academic support

    National Student Survey 2023

    No 1 for landscape architecture

    Guardian University Guide 2024

    Top 3 for landscape architecture

    The Times Good University Guide 2024

    Fees and funding

    Fees

    Additional costs

    The annual fee for your course includes a number of items in addition to your tuition. If an item or activity is classed as a compulsory element for your course, it will normally be included in your tuition fee. There are also other costs which you may need to consider.

    Examples of what’s included and excluded

    Funding your study

    Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for a bursary, scholarship or loan to help fund your study and enhance your learning experience.

    Use our Student Funding Calculator to work out what you’re eligible for.

    Our selection process

    After you've applied, we'll ask you to submit a portfolio of your own artwork. We'll be looking for observation skills, criticality, invention and representation. The portfolio should consist of ten reproductions of art or design work. You'll receive full details of the requirements, format, submission and assessment criteria after we've received your application. If your portfolio is of a really high standard, we may make you a lower grade offer.

    Generally we don't ask candidates to attend an interview. However, if you're a mature student or if you don't have conventional academic qualifications, we may invite you to an interview.

    Visit

    University open days

    We host five open days each year, usually in June, July, September, October and November. You can talk to staff and students, tour the campus and see inside the accommodation.

    Open days: book your place

    Subject tasters

    If you’re considering your post-16 options, our interactive subject tasters are for you. There are a wide range of subjects to choose from and you can attend sessions online or on campus.

    Upcoming taster sessions

    Offer holder days

    If you've received an offer to study with us, we'll invite you to one of our offer holder days, which take place between February and April. These open days have a strong department focus and give you the chance to really explore student life here, even if you've visited us before.

    Campus tours

    Our weekly guided tours show you what Sheffield has to offer - both on campus and beyond. You can extend your visit with tours of our city, accommodation or sport facilities.

    Campus tour: book your place

    Apply

    Make sure you've done everything you need to do before you apply.

    How to apply When you're ready to apply, see the UCAS website:
    www.ucas.com

    Not ready to apply yet? You can also register your interest in this course.

    The awarding body for this course is the University of Sheffield.

    Recognition of professional qualifications: from 1 January 2021, in order to have any UK professional qualifications recognised for work in an EU country across a number of regulated and other professions you need to apply to the host country for recognition. Read information from the UK government and the EU Regulated Professions Database.

    Any supervisors and research areas listed are indicative and may change before the start of the course.

    Our student protection plan

    Terms and Conditions upon Acceptance of an Offer

    2024-2025

    Make sure you've done everything you need to do before you apply.

    How to apply When you're ready to apply, see the UCAS website:
    www.ucas.com

    Not ready to apply yet? You can also register your interest in this course.

    Gain two professional qualifications, in architecture and landscape architecture, with this unique three year honours degree. The dual degree course is an exciting and challenging programme which explores the integrated design of buildings and the wider landscape environment.