School of Architecture

From groundbreaking to breaking ground: the University of Liverpool was the first in the UK to award a RIBA-accredited degree in Architecture, and today, we’re entering a new era with the addition of a £23m extension to our specialist facilities.

With two new master’s programmes launching in September 2026 – addressing rapid urban development and global housing crises – there’s never been a more exciting time to join the Liverpool School of Architecture.

What is the Liverpool School of Architecture known for?

Established in 1894, the University of Liverpool was the first in the UK to award a RIBA-accredited degree in Architecture. Today, the Liverpool School of Architecture is ranked 10th in the UK (The Guardian University Guide 2026) and amongst the top 100 in the world (QS World University Ranking 2025) for Architecture.

As one of the UK's premier centres for architectural research and education, we are proud of our long tradition and position in the world of Architecture, both nationally and internationally.

Where is the Liverpool School of Architecture and what’s the setting like?

We are part of the University of Liverpool: the original ‘redbrick’ which today ranks among the top 150 universities in the world (QS World University Rankings 2025).

The city of Liverpool is world-famous for its impressive heritage and award-winning contemporary architecture. Not only is the Liverpool School of Architecture well-connected with the city through its teaching and research, but it’s also located in the heart of a vibrant city-based campus where students are able to immerse themselves in an architecturally rich environment.

As a study destination, Liverpool has it all. The city was ranked 7th in Time Out’s ‘Best Cities in the World’ feature in 2024. It offers music, Premier League football, culture (with more museums and galleries than anywhere else outside London), shopping for all budgets and an incredible food scene.

What are the stand out course offerings at the Liverpool School of Architecture?

Reflecting the broad spectrum of our expertise, we offer a range of specialist master’s programmes for those seeking further education related to architecture, design, heritage and the construction industry:

• MA Advanced Architecture (now offering specialist pathways in BIM-enhanced design, bio digital design, computational design and AI, and design and digital heritage).
• MSc Building Information Modelling and Digital Transformation
• MSc Climate Resilience and Environmental Sustainability in Architecture
• MA Sustainable Heritage Management (fully recognised by the Institute of Historic Building Conservation)

From September 2026, we will also offer the following new programmes:

• MSc Global Housing Design
• MSc Global Urbanism and Heritage

The MArch (Master of Architecture) is available for those who are committed to qualifying as architects. This programme is accredited by both RIBA and the Board of Architects Malaysia (LAM).

What are the entry requirements and fees?

Entry requirements and fees vary by program. Information about bursaries can be found here.

What is student life like at Liverpool School of Architecture?

As a student of the School of the Arts, to which the Liverpool School of Architecture belongs, you’ll have access to a range of dedicated support services. Our friendly Student Experience team can provide advice on guidance on matters ranging from employability to general welfare.

What facilities does the Liverpool School of Architecture offer?

Our facilities include workshops, a laser suite, a Print Media Design Suite, a CNC router room, 3D printers, laser cutters, a robotic arm, computing and research labs and well-lit studio, work and seminar/review spaces. You will be supported by a dedicated team of technicians who support our AV, workshop and IT facilities on a day-to-day basis.

Spring 2026 will see the opening of our £23m, 2,000m⊃2; extension and enhanced teaching facilities. This inspiring new space will include virtual reality and digital design suites, collaborative workspaces, and an exhibition area.

How does the Liverpool School of Architecture support your career?

Our programmes have been designed to meet the needs of employers and the wider AEC (Architecture, Engineering and Construction) industry, providing opportunities to develop in-demand skills and to be informed of the latest developments in your chosen discipline.

The University’s Careers and Employability service offers a range of services to help you prepare for your future career, including career coaches and digital tools. We also have further dedicated employability support within our friendly Student Experience team.

What do students say about the Liverpool School of Architecture?

Our notable alumni include Sir James Stirling, Maxwell Fry CBE, Robert Maxwell, Jonathan Falkingham MBE and Norah Dunphy – the first woman in the UK to obtain the degree of B.Arch.

This journey has laid a solid foundation for my future career. It’s equipped me not only with advanced technical skills and knowledge in architecture and design, but also with critical thinking, communication, and leadership abilities. The connections I’ve built, the experiences I’ve had, and the growth I’ve undergone will continue to shape my professional path long after I leave

– Shahnaz Gulshan, India (MA Advanced Architecture)

How can I apply to the Liverpool School of Architecture?

Applications for September 2026 entry onto our master’s programmes will open in early October 2025. The deadlines for applications are:

• International: 12 July 2026
• UK: 31 August 2026

What else should you know about the Liverpool School of Architecture?

We are an internationally-recognised centre for architectural and built environment research, ranked 7th in the sector for world-leading (4*) outputs in the most recent Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021).

Our research spans across the Architectural Humanities, Heritage, Environment, Digital Culture and Design Practice. Current projects include the establishment of a research centre to investigate the effects of climate change on the West African Coast – for which we received a £2.2m Leverhulme International Professorship grant – and the £6.75m UKRI Creative Cluster initiative, MusicFutures.