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MSc Computational Architecture

University of the West of England (UWE Bristol)

United Kingdom, Bristol

University Rank:#721

Duration1 year(s)

Tuition Fee

GBP 22,820 / Year

Next IntakeSeptember 1, 2026

MSc Computational Architecture

About

Introduction

Study an experimental course that applies computational modelling and digital fabrication. Apply your skills to simulations, solving architectural problems in a design studio environment. Benefit from our industry partnerships, learning from experts in practice through workshops and guest lectures.

When an architectural problem needs solving, architects use biological and mathematical models to simulate the problem. Applying these algorithms to simulations allows architects to experiment with design solutions in a studio environment.

Modelling is crucial for us to create spaces that support the social and biological systems in society. Explore the natural and built environment, designing spaces to enhance these settings while tackling industry challenges, such as sustainability.

An experimental programme

Designed in collaboration with the Centre for Print Research, MSc Computational Architecture blends architectural design with print and manufacturing. To date, we're one of the only universities in the region to deliver a master's degree in computational architecture.

Challenge your curious, creative mind as you change the way you think about the design process. You'll explore contemporary issues in architectural modelling, from design to fabrication. These issues include clean manufacturing, enabling you to experiment with sustainable materials in design and construction.

An applied approach

This one-year course will introduce you to the latest computational design technologies. Gain core knowledge in computational modelling as you learn to simulate datasets and scripts.

You'll test your project proposals through fabrication and prototyping and apply your skills to real-world simulations. With experience in a design studio environment, you'll be prepared for solving architectural problems in practice.

A relevant and flexible master's route

As the manufacturing sector expands, the demand for professionals with modelling knowledge increases too. You'll address the need for digital modelling skills in this growing industry. Develop the architectural computing expertise you need to become a design and construction professional.

We welcome applicants from a broad range of disciplines, including architectural technology, engineering, art, and product, spatial and landscape design. We also encourage industry professionals seeking career progression to apply.

This course has two routes. The principal pathway provides you with a linear progression in their development of skills and understanding of computational architecture, the second pathway is offered to applicants that have already completed research-based project work in computational design. If you are seeking access to this second pathway you are required to present a sample of your research work and discuss this at an interview.

Disciplines

Architecture and the Built Environment

Requirements

Entry Requirements

We are pleased to confirm that our New students webpages are now available for students starting this course in September 2025. Here you can find links to useful information about registering, course start dates, arriving on campus what to expect before and when you arrive.

We automatically send a message via your Welcome website plus an email to notify you once your Preparing to Study information is available. It is important that you regularly check your Welcome website for new messages.

We normally require an honours degree of 2:2 or above in one of the following areas; Architecture, Product Design, Media Design, Digital Media, Civil and Structural Engineering, Engineering, Computer Science, Pervasive Media or Art and Design.

If you do not meet the above grade requirements but have at least 12 months relevant professional experience and/ or equivalent qualifications, we will consider you on an individual basis.

Applicants will study pathway one unless they can present research-based project work in computational design that they have completed previously and that demonstrates their proficiency and understanding of this field. Applicants with this existing project-work may seek access to pathway two of this course and will be required to present a sample of their research work and discuss this at an interview. An applicant that has completed a Masters or MArch degree that included assessed work in computational architecture may be considered for pathway two.

Applicants may be invited to an interview (via video conferencing for overseas students) on the basis of the formal application and sample of work.

We can consider applicants who do not meet the normal entry requirement, but who do have relevant professional experience or qualifications. In your application, you should describe in detail your professional experience and qualifications.

English Requirements

PTEMin 62
IELTSMin 6.5
TOEFLMin 90

English Program Requirements

International and EU applicants are required to have a minimum overall IELTS (Academic) score of 6.5 with 5.5 in each component (or approved equivalent*).

*The University accepts a large number of UK and international qualifications in place of IELTS. You can find details of acceptable tests and the required grades you will need in our English Language section. Visit English Language Requirements.

Career

Careers

Careers / Further study

MSc Computational Architecture equips you with the skills and knowledge to apply modelling to a wide range of architectural issues. This course is designed to create the next generation of leaders in the industry, ready to work with technical professionals on project teams. You'll develop the skills needed to become a practitioner in architecture, engineering or design.

After you graduate, you'll be equipped to work in a range of technical areas, working with architectural, engineering and construction employers. For example, experts in fabrication and computational scripting are sought after by construction management companies and contractors across the UK. Other careers include teaching and research in further and higher education, training, consultancy and entrepreneurship.

Whatever your career aspirations are, you'll benefit from our strong industry partnerships. Get involved in workshops and projects connected into the South West Creative Technology Network. You'll also have the opportunity to attend guest lectures from visiting professionals, enabling you to learn the latest architectural developments from experts in practice.

Throughout your studies, you'll gain further design experience through professional opportunities, such as exhibitions. Showcase your talent by exhibiting your final year project at our annual Plan and Make Degree Show. This enables you to connect with potential employers, building your professional network as you gain exposure in the industry.

Graduates from this course will go on to employment in the architectural sectors, teaching and academia, with many going on to take PhDs in design-related subjects.

Our award-winning careers service helps you develop your employment potential through career coaching, a vacancy service for internships, placements, jobs, global opportunities, volunteering and community activity plus support for entrepreneurial activity, and access to employer events.

Fee Information

Tuition Fee

22,820 / year

MSc Computational Architecture

University of the West of England (UWE Bristol)

United Kingdom, Bristol