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Architecture is a unique Cambridge degree that combines the intellectual challenges of both arts and sciences with the opportunity for creative design. An innovative design programme is balanced with outstanding teaching in the history and philosophy of architecture, contemporary culture and urbanism, as well as construction, structural design and environmental design.

The course is approved by the Architects Registration Board (ARB), and carries exemption from the Royal Institute of British Architects' (RIBA) Part 1 examinations; successful graduates may go on to take a RIBA validated MPhil and Part 3 professional practice course.

 

Further information about the course can be found on the Department and University websites.

Typical offers require 

  • A Level: A*AA
  • IB: 40-42 points, with 776 at Higher Level 

For other qualifications, see the main entrance requirements pages on the University website.

Subject requirements

  • Required: None

  • Highly recommended: Art, Mathematics and/or Physics, an essay-based subject

Mature students and those taking other qualifications are encouraged to contact our Admissions Office, to discuss the entry requirements for their qualifications.

Number of students 

We aim to admit around two students per year.

Admissions assessment

All applicants for Architecture are required to take a Cambridge College-registered admissions assessment, if invited to interview. Further details about the assessment can be found here.

Portfolio

All applicants invited to interview are expected to show a portfolio of recent work but this isn't expected to be work of an architectural nature (eg plans, sections etc).

For more information:

Director of Studies

Mike Tuck

RIBA chartered architect and Director of Studies in Architecture

Mike Tuck is an RIBA chartered architect who founded the studio in 2014.

Mike studied architecture at the University of Cambridge and the Royal College of Art and also has an MA in sculpture from the Slade School of Fine Art.

Between 2005 and 2014 Mike worked with RIBA award-winning practices to realise a diverse body of work ranging from one-off houses to the new Bretton Country Park visitors centre at the Yorkshire Sculpture Park. Mike has considerable experience of delivering complex and challenging projects.

Over the last 5 years Mike has combined teaching with practice, most recently as a Design Fellow at the University of Cambridge. 

Student profiles

Charlotte

Architecture student

I am a New Zealander who graduated from the University of Auckland with a joint BA/BSc, prior to my arrival in Cambridge. Lucy Cavendish has a very friendly environment. Home is very far away and I am lucky that the College such a great place to stay during Easter and Christmas vacations. I love the gardens; it's wonderful to be able to go outside to read or have a picnic. The food on-site is great (especially the desserts!) and the cooking facilities are essential for freezing meals to take to studio during busy weeks. I like that Architecture is one of the more unconventional subjects because of its hands-on creativity. The course is intensive but there is continuous constructive feedback and help. The Architecture undergrads are a very tight-knit group who make all the hard work enjoyable and memorable.

Onusa

Architecture student

I grew up in Bangkok and completed secondary education there before winning a Thai government scholarship to do A-levels and an undergraduate degree in the UK. From my first year, I enjoyed the very supportive environment in the college. The college staff were very kind and helpful. Having college friends from a wide range of ages and backgrounds also opened my eyes to new perspectives on life. On my course, I particularly like the close attention given by the design tutors and supervisors. I also enjoy the way the theoretical part of architecture is given a lot of importance, which is one of the unique features of the Cambridge course. I received an award from the college which allowed me to support the costs of architectural equipment purchases. And, all of my friends said the formal hall at Lucy Cavendish is one of the best in Cambridge.

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