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Overview

Typical offer: A*AA (or equivalent)

Required subjects: None

Useful subjects: Art, Maths, Physics, an essay-based subject

Number of undergraduate students admitted per year: Around two

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.

 

 

 

 

The undergraduate course in architecture carries exemption from ARB/RIBA Part 1, which is the first stage in qualifying as an architect.

Part 1a requires students to sit examinations in five papers at the end of the year. You will also be required to complete a portfolio of work produced in the studio and on the compulsory European city trip in Easter holidays.

Part 1b requires students to complete five papers, examined through examinations and coursework. Similarly, to Part 1A, you will also be required to complete a portfolio of work produced throughout the year.

Part 2 requires students to complete four papers, examined through coursework and examinations. Alongside this, students will complete a portfolio of work and a dissertation.

Successful graduates may go on to take a RIBA validated MPhil.

Further information can be found on the Faculty and University websites.  

Typical offers require

  • A-Level: A*AA
  • IB: 42 points, with 776 in Higher Level
  • Advanced Highers: A1, A2, A2

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

Subject Requirements

A-level

Required: None

Highly recommended: Art, Mathematics, Physics, an academic essay-based subject

IB

Required: None

Highly recommended: Higher Level Art, Mathematics (Analysis and Approaches), Physics, an academic essay-based subject

Mature students and those taking other qualifications are encouraged to contact our Admissions Office (admissions@lucy.cam.ac.uk) to discuss the entry requirements for their qualifications.

Written work

A six-page portfolio with examples of your work showing your interests, experience and ability in visual and material arts.

Assessments

Applicants shortlisted for interview are required to sit an hour-long Cambridge College Registered Assessment, broken down into 30 minutes spent assessing writing skills and 30 minutes assessing graphic and spatial ability. Applicants do not need to register themselves from this assessment in advance. 

Interviews

Interviews allow us to distinguish amongst excellent applicants by assessing the skills and aptitudes essential for successful study in higher education, and your academic qualities – essentially, how do you think?

For 2024 entry, interviews for all applicants to Lucy Cavendish will take place virtually. The aims and content will still be the same as in-person interviews. You can read more about Lucy Cavendish's online interviews here and you can read the University's information on interviews here.

Each candidate typically has two interviews, lasting between twenty and thirty minutes. In some cases, you will be given preparatory material beforehand.

In a few subjects, you will be interviewed by more than one College or in the Faculty. You will be notified of this in your interview invitation.

Supracurricular exploration is an important way to expand your knowledge of your subject, explore your interests and develop your skills. Our new webpage contains guidance on supracurricular exploration and a comprehensive source of resources, grouped according to undergraduate degrees at Cambridge. 

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Attend an open day or event

Our Events and Open Days page advertises regular events held by Lucy Cavendish College. If you can, join us for a College Open Day to discuss your application with a member of our admissions team.