Education in the School of Architecture is mostly based on independent work. Throughout a week you would have one full day of tutorials and two days with one/two lectures, which supplement your independent studying.

Studio day

Studio is the main unit of the course. We design an architectural object of various scales and functions to explore and understand how the creative process works.
Every student works individually on their own proposal. On a studio day, we consult on our designs with the tutors. One general style of teaching cannot be specified as each tutor teaches in a unique way. Some groups present their work to the whole cohort and have a group discussion, others have 1 on 1 consultations – these two are the most popular styles.
The day is focused on observing your peers’ projects as well. By watching and talking with them you will learn twice as fast.
Remember, it is a day you will enjoy the most! In my case, studio day is the best time of the whole week!

Technology day

Technology lectures usually have two subparts. Firstly, we are presented with theoretical foundations of a certain topic and then we analyse more advanced concepts using existing buildings. The content of every lecture provides very useful information on how to implement presented knowledge in our personal projects.
Additionally, we have assignments that support us in structuring new knowledge. Each series of lectures goes with student-friendly briefs which have a task list testing comprehension of principles explained during lectures. The assignments encourage us to study the theory, but also to test and explore. The priority is on fulfilling the curiosity, not forcing particular practice.

Humanities day

Humanities is the most diversified discipline. The classes create interaction with drawing theory, history of architecture, visual communication, philosophy, social values in the built environment, and many more. There are assignments strictly related to the lectures – classes are fully designed to expose us to multiple topics and let us have a brief understanding of the chosen issues.

Rest of the week

The remaining time of the week is dedicated to independent studying. Spending enough time alone with your project is essential to self-reflect on your decisions and the advice provided by the tutors. You will enjoy tremendous freedom in your education. Whatever you explore during these days will, most likely, be accepted by the tutors and you will be supported in pursuing any idea further (instead of changing it).

Thanks to the amazing teaching style and timetable you will not be overwhelmed with work at any time. The workload is optimally adjusted to keep us engaged. I am sure you will enjoy every week in MSA!

Written by Kacper, current undergraduate architecture student at The University of Manchester.

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