The Architecture programmes in the School of Architecture and the Visual Arts at the University of East London are recognised as among the leaders in the UK and have a particular reputation for innovation in teaching. Their character is recognisable in its ‘hands-on’ approach to architecture, working with the physical exploration of materials and the processes of site and context. As a counterpart to this preoccupation with the physical, the School also has a number of Computer Studios which explore more theoretical and virtual models of architecture.
By material we don’t just mean bricks, but a concern with a real, the everyday, social relevance, economy of means, poetics of architecture and urban design. For us these are practical activities involving experimentation, innovation and testing through making and constructing.
Architecture at UEL has long had the ambition for students and teachers to learn together through experimenting with concepts through full size making and testing experimental prototypes or components at 1:1 scale
The School of Architecture and the Visual Arts [AVA] recognises the opportunity to attract design professionals who wish to specialise in sustainable materials research through design locally, nationally and internationally. The School is through this programme taking a lead in experimental and real materials research crucial to implement national and international development for a sustainable future.
The aim of the programme is also to be the first step towards design based PhDs and professional Doctorates within Architecture
This new programme builds on the physical making culture of the School and intends to develop the design and building of both low–tech prototype components and computer aided manufacture.
The programme is design based and hands on and is aimed at designers and architects interested in the exploration of innovative material technologies and the sustainable production of buildings in relation to its context. The programme aims to work in collaboration with local, national and international institutions and industry.
The programme is organised in two generic taught modules followed by the Thesis module. The taught Modules comprise a series of distinctive component options designed for each specific award. Students are able to choose options across the practice based components [component 2], based on the individual student’s interest and ability.
The programme sets out to explore and develop new and sustainable materials and forms of construction. It aims to develop responsive positions that are both generic and responding to the particularities of context, topographical, social, cultural, economic and political. The programme is seeking to develop and test materials strategies though the building of wherever possible, full size prototypes.
The programme is informed by current local and international material discourse, through acts of making. It also emphasises the development of intuition and processes to test and develop new forms of making and manufacturing in practice as well as questioning the current state of play.
The programme is particularly designed for already qualified design professionals, (architects, engineers, product designers etc.) who wish to specialise in innovative materials, manufacturing and construction practice.
It welcomes applications from suitable candidates with an honours degree in architecture and/or RIBA Part 1 exemption, with a particular interest and ability to contribute to the development of material matters at an advanced level.
It also welcomes applications from candidates with a design based first degree (honours) with a particular interest and ability to contribute to the development of innovative materials, manufacturing and construction practice at an advanced level.
Applications are welcomed from the EU and overseas, in particular, lecturers from Higher Education Institutions wishing to increase their qualifications.
This programme has also been designed to attract professionals from public and private practice who are seeking to upgrade their qualifications, or who are looking for the opportunity to validate aspects of their professional remit, or to research and develop internationally relevant urban issues that they have encountered in professional practice.
Students whose first language is not English will have achieved a score of 7.0 in ILTS or equivalent. Eligibility for students without degree equivalent qualifications will be assessed on the basis of a short essay, statement and a portfolio. Places will be offered after a successful interview with a member of the programme team.
All applicants will be interviewed
For an explanation of qualifications, have a look at our IAG page on this site www.creativeway.org.uk/quals.
A Progression Agreement is a formal arrangement between two or more
education providers. It spells out what a learner needs to do to be
considered for a place on a named programme of study. Progression Agreements
may vary in the conditions they specify but they all aim to give guaranteed
pathways into higher education.
Advice on courses and careers:-
The Creative Way IAG team provides a specialist service for anyone
interested in finding out about courses and careers in the creative and
cultural industries. We can provide information direct to Students,
Parents/ Carers, Tutors and Careers Advisers via email, phone or organised
workshops and 1 to 1 sessions.
To find out more, visit our IAG page on this site on
http://www.creativeway.org.uk/IAG Or contact one of our career advisers: Matt Ball 07889 001764
m.ball@uel.ac.uk or Sarah
Comerford 07515 051509
s.comerford@uel.ac.uk