Architecture – Bath Spa University

Architecture

Learn to create inclusive, resilient spaces with our Architecture degree. Explore the relationships between conservation, planning and the use and reuse of spaces in response to crucial issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss and the needs of communities. 

Architects Registration Board logo

BA (Hons) Architecture at Bath Spa University is prescribed by the Architects Registration Board (ARB).

#14 in the UK

and #2 in the South West for Continuation in Art and Design (Complete University Guide, 2024)

Our design courses

Architecture

BA (Hons)

Aerial drone view of The Circus street in Bath, Somerset, UK

Collaborate with real organisations while you gain foundational skills in architecture: design, drawing, project management and communication. 

Related careers:

  • Design
  • Heritage conservation 
  • Surveying
  • Project management
Course details
Scandinavian, mid-century home interior

Find new uses for existing spaces and learn to communicate your ideas through drawing, CAD and model-making.

Related careers:

  • Exhibiting
  • Retail and shop-fitting  
  • Theatre and stage  
  • Film and television
  • Model-making  
  • Lighting design 
Course details
Graphic designer working on an illustration tablet

Develop works across print, screen and interactive media, and gain the full range of skills you need to thrive in the creative industries.

Related careers:

  • Graphic design 
  • Art directing 
  • Illustration 
  • Animation 
  • Interactive media design
Course details
A hand places a white candle into an orange candle stick holder.

Become a creative and versatile designer who is able to turn your ideas into high quality products. 

Related careers:

  • Product design 
  • Manufacture 
  • Marketing
Course details

Architecture

BA (Hons)

Aerial drone view of The Circus street in Bath, Somerset, UK

Collaborate with real organisations while you gain foundational skills in architecture: design, drawing, project management and communication. 

Related careers:

  • Design
  • Heritage conservation 
  • Surveying
  • Project management
Course details
Scandinavian, mid-century home interior

Find new uses for existing spaces and learn to communicate your ideas through drawing, CAD and model-making.

Related careers:

  • Exhibiting
  • Retail and shop-fitting  
  • Theatre and stage  
  • Film and television
  • Model-making  
  • Lighting design 
Course details
Graphic designer working on an illustration tablet

Develop works across print, screen and interactive media, and gain the full range of skills you need to thrive in the creative industries.

Related careers:

  • Graphic design 
  • Art directing 
  • Illustration 
  • Animation 
  • Interactive media design
Course details
A hand places a white candle into an orange candle stick holder.

Become a creative and versatile designer who is able to turn your ideas into high quality products. 

Related careers:

  • Product design 
  • Manufacture 
  • Marketing
Course details

Hear from our students

“My course helped me visualise my idea from concept to final point of sale.”

Bath Spa University was a platform that gave me the confidence to push boundaries, with the aid of some amazing tutors, to turn my business into what it is today.

Kamal Ali, MA Design (Textiles)

Kamal Ali crouches down behind the two interactive prayer mats he has created, holding the boxes for each

Study Architecture in Bath

Inspiration around every corner 

From the Roman Baths to the Royal Crescent, Bath’s architecture is unmistakable. It’s the only UK city to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in its entirety, making it a unique place in which to study Architecture. 

Student-centred design 

As an Architecture student, you'll be based at Locksbrook Campus. Originating in 1976, this former furniture factory was reimagined for the needs of our students by Grimshaw Architects in 2016. Their design provides you with social spaces and open, flexible studios. They have also future-proofed the building’s three floors with enhanced energy performance. 

Why study at Bath Spa?

Exterior of a period factory building with modern glazing design, flanked by mature willows, with students in the outdoor seating area

You’ll be based at Locksbrook Campus in Bath’s industrial area near the river Avon. Our award-winning building cleverly incorporates modern touches into a Grade II listed space.

Two students in their shared kitchen, chatting over a cup of tea

Keen to enjoy the best that Bath has to offer? The nearest accommodation to Locksbrook Campus is:  

Litho print of bike in green ink

Access the full Adobe Creative Suite, work in our studio spaces, and experiment in our on-site workshops, where you can explore techniques in disciplines such as ceramics and metalwork, with support from our technical demonstrators.

From grants and short-term loans to low-cost hot meals, free period products and on-campus food larders, we’ve got a range of services and support to help you manage your money.

Four students walking on campus with mature trees in background

Whatever you need, our Student Wellbeing Services team is here to signpost you in the right direction. Access a range of 24/7 services, as well as long-term support.

A happy student graduating from university

Need someone to critique your CV? Looking for a part-time job while you study? Want a mentor? Our Careers team have you covered.

A Student Ambassador helps a visitor at an Open Day

Visiting us is the best way to find out whether Bath Spa is the right university for you.

  • Meet our students and staff 
  • Tour our facilities and accommodation 
  • Learn more about your chosen course
Book now
Exterior of a period factory building with modern glazing design, flanked by mature willows, with students in the outdoor seating area

You’ll be based at Locksbrook Campus in Bath’s industrial area near the river Avon. Our award-winning building cleverly incorporates modern touches into a Grade II listed space.

Two students in their shared kitchen, chatting over a cup of tea

Keen to enjoy the best that Bath has to offer? The nearest accommodation to Locksbrook Campus is:  

Litho print of bike in green ink

Access the full Adobe Creative Suite, work in our studio spaces, and experiment in our on-site workshops, where you can explore techniques in disciplines such as ceramics and metalwork, with support from our technical demonstrators.

From grants and short-term loans to low-cost hot meals, free period products and on-campus food larders, we’ve got a range of services and support to help you manage your money.

Four students walking on campus with mature trees in background

Whatever you need, our Student Wellbeing Services team is here to signpost you in the right direction. Access a range of 24/7 services, as well as long-term support.

A happy student graduating from university

Need someone to critique your CV? Looking for a part-time job while you study? Want a mentor? Our Careers team have you covered.

A Student Ambassador helps a visitor at an Open Day

Visiting us is the best way to find out whether Bath Spa is the right university for you.

  • Meet our students and staff 
  • Tour our facilities and accommodation 
  • Learn more about your chosen course
Book now

How to become an architect

It usually takes at least 7 years of study and practice to become an architect. Often, students spend longer than this in training and practice.   

To become an architect in the UK, you’re required to hold qualifications specified by the Architects Registration Board (ARB).   

These requirements, which are divided into Parts 1, 2 and 3, are a mix of formal qualifications and professional experience.  

The first step towards becoming an architect is to complete an ARB Prescribed 3-year undergraduate degree before undertaking a year of professional experience. 

For more information, see the ARB guide for students considering a career in architecture. 

Example student journey through architecture 

Element Approx. length Part
Undergraduate degree in Architecture 3 years 1
Professional experience 1 year 1
Postgraduate degree or diploma in Architecture 2 years 2
A year in practice while undertaking a diploma or Postgraduate Certificate 1 year 3