Why study Interior Architecture at Liverpool John Moores University?
- An introduction to contemporary art and design practices, including Art History and drawing, alongside core academic skills
- Students can access study abroad opportunities, apply for overseas travel awards and take exchanges
- Access to some of the UK's best examples of urban redevelopment and iconic buildings
- Taught in the RIBA award-winning, purpose-built John Lennon Art and Design Building
- Direct involvement in live artistic projects
- International Foundation Year course available offering direct progression onto this degree programme
- All students have the opportunity to learn a new language during their studies with Rosetta Stone
- Take a virtual tour of this year's Architecture degree show
- For news and student-led events, course information and student work and staff research, visit the LJMU Architecture blog
About your course
This programme gives you the opportunity to work on a range of authentic architectural projects with input from practicing architects and interior design specialist in a dynamic studio environment with access to industry standard technical facilities.
The emphasis of this programme is the creative adaptation, repurposing, remodelling, rebranding, restyling and refitting of existing buildings.
Taught principally through a studio environment that is seamlessly underpinned and informed by lectures and workshops, the over-arching ambition is to create graduates with artistic flair, and who are technically skilled and grounded in the demands of the profession.
The learning and teaching environment is progressively informed by research in pedagogy in the creative field. While teaching the curriculum, the programme also develops less tangible skills in students, such as communication, presentation and self-motivation; a key ambition is to create independent thinkers, adept at resolving problems with creativity and originality.
A broad educational experience is offered within which students can develop diverse rigorous and creative approaches to design issues that explore and test appropriate resolutions in relation to contemporary and anticipated contextual issues.
Design projects form the backbone of the core teaching strategy. These projects are seen as primers to a divergent creative and critical thought process: they are characterised by individual interpretation and interest of the subjects that encourage imaginative solutions through discursive studio forums.
As you progress through the degree, the design projects gradually become more complex and ambitious in their intentions and integrative in their nature. At degree level, predominantly, the city of Liverpool is used as a contextual laboratory to test concepts that have a local flavour with global implications.
The aim is to develop graduate skills and knowledge such that you become an autonomous thinker who is capable of analysing, visualising and testing potential solutions to increasingly complex spatial and social issues within an increasingly holistic global scenario.
We regularly host symposia and conferences, for example the recent symposiums included: The Display, Exhibition & Propagation of Architecture and Government and Housing in a Time of Crisis which both featured world-renowned guest speakers from architecture, design and academia.
For news, events, including student-led events, course information and student work and staff research, visit the Architecture blog.
Other study options:
"I wanted to receive an education that gave me the skills required to work in the real world. Studying at LJMU proved to be the best option, since they offered a well rounded education that focused on both design and technology."
Professional accreditation/links
To become a registered architect you usually need to work for an additional year in architectural practice then complete a two-year Master of Architecture (MArch) diploma. Once you have passed the RIBA Part 3 exams, you can practice in any EU or commonwealth country and many other countries outside the EU.
If after graduating you choose not to go down the route of becoming an interior architectural designer, a range of other careers are open to you. Past graduates have pursued successful careers as project managers, property developers, furniture designers, lighting designers, architectural visualisation artists and journalists.
Fees and funding
There are many ways to fund study for home and international students
Fees
The fees quoted above cover registration, tuition, supervision, assessment and examinations as well as:
- Library membership with access to printed, multimedia and digital resources
- Access to programme-appropriate software
- Library and student IT support
- Free on-campus wifi via eduroam
Additional costs
Although not all of the following are compulsory/relevant, you should keep in mind the costs of:
- accommodation and living expenditure
- books (should you wish to have your own copies)
- printing, photocopying and stationery
- PC/laptop (should you prefer to purchase your own for independent study and online learning activities)
- mobile phone/tablet (to access online services)
- field trips (travel and activity costs)
- placements (travel expenses and living costs)
- student visas (international students only)
- study abroad opportunities (travel costs, accommodation, visas and immunisations)
- academic conferences (travel costs)
- professional-body membership
- graduation (gown hire etc)
Funding
There are many ways to fund study for home and international students. From loans to International Scholarships and subject-specific funding, you'll find all of the information you need on our specialist funding pages.
Employability
To become a registered architect, you usually need to work for an additional year in architectural practice then complete a two-year Master of Architecture (MArch) diploma.
Once you have passed the RIBA Part 3 exams, you can practice in any EU or commonwealth country and many other countries outside the EU.
If after graduating you choose not to go down the route of becoming an interior architectural designer, a range of other careers are open to you. Past graduates have pursued successful careers as project managers, property developers, furniture designers, lighting designers, architectural visualisation artists and journalists.
Many of our graduates have successfully secured employment at world-class practices throughout the UK and further afield, while others have remained in the city of Liverpool contributing to its evolution, taking key roles in leading practices that have reshaped the city over the last decade.
Student Futures - Careers, Employability and Enterprise Service
A wide range of opportunities and support is available to you, within and beyond your course, to ensure our students experience a transformation in their career trajectory. Every undergraduate curriculum includes Future Focus during Level 4, an e-learning resource and workshop designed to help you to develop your talents, passion and purpose.
Every student has access to Careers Zone 24/7, LJMU's suite of online Apps, resources and jobs board via the LJMU Student Futures website. There are opportunities for flexible, paid and part-time work through Unitemps, LJMU's in-house recruitment service, and we also offer fully funded Discovery Internships.
One-to-one careers and employability advice is available via our campus-based Careers Zones and we offer a year-round programme of events, including themed careers and employability workshops, employer events and recruitment fairs. Our Start-Up Hub can help you to grow your enterprise skills and to research, plan and start your own business or become a freelancer.
A suite of learning experiences, services and opportunities is available to final year students to help ensure you leave with a great onward plan. You can access LJMU's Careers, Employability and Start-up Services after you graduate and return for one-to-one support for life.
Go abroad
LJMU aims to make international opportunities available to every student. You may be able to study abroad as part of your degree at one of our 100+ partner universities across the world. You could also complete a work placement or apply for one of our prestigious worldwide internship programmes. If you wanted to go abroad for a shorter amount of time, you could attend one of our 1-4 week long summer schools.
Our Go Citizen Scheme can help with costs towards volunteering, individual projects or unpaid placements anywhere in the world. With all of these opportunities at your feet, why wouldn’t you take up the chance to go abroad?
Find out more about the opportunities we have available via our Instagram @ljmuglobalopps or email us at: goabroad@ljmu.ac.uk.
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What you will study on this degree
Please see guidance below on core and option modules for further information on what you will study.
Further guidance on modules
Modules are designated core or optional in accordance with professional body requirements, as applicable, and LJMU’s Academic Framework Regulations. Whilst you are required to study core modules, optional modules provide you with an element of choice. Their availability may vary and will be subject to meeting minimum student numbers.
Whilst you are required to study core modules, optional modules may also be included to provide you with an element of choice within the programme. The availability of optional modules may vary from year to year and will be subject to meeting minimum student numbers.
Where changes to modules are necessary these will be communicated as appropriate.
Level 4
Core modules
History and Theory 1: a global review of architectural Design
20 credits
Fundamental Skills: Understanding buildings through drawing
20 credits
Design 1: Light, space and form; narrative and spatial sequencing
20 credits
Design 2: Exploration for a place for making
20 credits
Design 3: Crafting a Spatial Proposition
10 credits
Design 4: the Need for Design
10 credits
Environment and Technology 1: Introduction to structural and environmental design
20 credits
Level 5
Core modules
History and Theory 2: Modernism; from the symbol of the present to the medium of the future
20 credits
Design 5: Adaptive Reuse - Origination
20 credits
Design 6: Adaptive Reuse - Resolution
20 credits
Integrated Design 1: Explorative Project - Design
20 credits
Integrated Design 2: Explorative Project - Technology
20 credits
Environment and Technology 2: Use and application of Building Information Modelling
20 credits
Optional modules
Study Semester Abroad - Interior Architecture
60 credits
The aim is to provide students with a semester of study at an approved overseas partner that will replace one semester of their LJMU programme at level 5.This is a semester of full-time study at an approved higher education institution which will replace one semester of level 5 study at LJMU. The modules to be studied must be agreed in advance, and must be an appropriate substitute for the modules being replaced. Assuming successful completion of this semester, mark-bearing credit will be awarded by the Faculty Recognition Group. The grade conversion scale to be used will be made available in advance of the semester abroad.
Level 6
Core modules
Design Project Research - CDP
20 credits
Integrated Design 2: Interior Re-modelling Project
20 credits
Integrated Design 2: Supporting Studies
20 credits
Integrated Design 3: Comprehensive Design Project
40 credits
Practice and Legislation: Ethical design practice and building legislation
20 credits
Teaching and work-related learning
Excellent facilities and learning resources
We adopt an active blended learning approach, meaning you will experience a combination of face-to-face and online learning during your time at LJMU. This enables you to experience a rich and diverse learning experience and engage fully with your studies. Our approach ensures that you can easily access support from your personal tutor, either by meeting them on-campus or via a video call to suit your needs.
During Level 4, you will be introduced to fundamental tools and ideas that form the basis for the study of architecture alongside students on the BA (Hons) Architecture programme. The interpretation of themes and conceptual thinking will be established within the years overall focus of Form, Space and Light.
During Level 5, you will explore two core aspects of architectural thinking: the creating adaptation of existing building and experimental design and complete a study trip to a city in Europe. You will also complete modules which will inform and aid your work in the design studio.
The final year, Level 6, focuses on I the repurposing, remodelling, rebranding, restyling and refitting of existing buildings. You will secure the skills and knowledge required to practice interior architectural design via a creative but rigorous approach to design project work.
Work-related Learning
Alongside your development of professional architectural skills, you will gain transferable skills that will enhance your employability once you graduate. You will hear from a range of guest speakers, as part of the School of Art and Design's Masters Series lectures. You will also have opportunities to participate in symposia run by the Architecture department as well as opportunities to enter competitions relating to professional development.
In a recent competition held in association with Finsa, final year Architecture students were asked to design a school or shelter for war torn countries so that children could learn in safety.
Support and guidance
Dedicated personal tutor, plus study skills support
Independent design project work makes up 60% of this course, and so it is vital that you get the support you need to be able to fully develop your design skills. For this reason, you will be allocated a design tutor who will provide one-to-one teaching and support throughout each project.
The feedback system and the production of a personal development plan with a personal tutor are also designed to help you achieve your full potential, in both your studies and your future career plans.
Assessment
Assessment varies depending on the modules you choose, but will usually include a combination of exams and coursework.
All students perform differently depending on how they are assessed, which is why we use a combination of assessment methods. Typically, you will be assessed on your design and research presentations (group/individual), written work (essays, reports etc), exams (seen/unseen), practical work (workshop abroad), and your portfolio. At the end of your studies there will be a one-to-one interview with an external examiner.
The type of feedback you will receive varies according to the module. For instance, design modules are reviewed twice with formal feedback given by a panel at the second review, and portfolio reviews are conducted at the end of each semester when you will work with your personal tutor to put together a personal development plan. This will address your strengths and weaknesses and help you develop your academic work as well as your career plans.
Where you will study
What you can expect from your School
Rated a top 10 school of art in the 2020 Guardian University League Tables.Cross-disciplinary learning in art and design subjects takes place in the Liverpool School of Art and Designs John Lennon Art and Design Building, based in the Mount Pleasant Campus. Here students studying a variety of disciplines, including Architecture, Art in Science, Exhibition Studies, Fashion, Fine Art, Graphic Design, History of Art and Museum Studies and Interior Architecture, will have the opportunity to develop their work in state-of-the-art workspaces and facilities within a stimulating and critically demanding environment.
Entry requirements
Please choose your qualifications below to view requirements
Minimum points required from qualifications: 112
Qualification requirements
GCSEs and equivalents
Prior to starting the programme applicants must have obtained Grade C or Grade 4 or above in English Language, Mathematics and Science GCSE or an approved alternative qualification below:
Key Skills Level 2 in English/Maths
NVQ Level 2 Functional skills in Maths and English Writing and or Reading
Skills for Life Level 2 in Numeracy/English
Higher Diploma in Maths/English
Functional Skills Level 2 in Maths/English
Northern Ireland Essential Skills Level 2 in Communication or Application of Number
Welsh GCSE in Maths
Wales Essential Skills Level 2 in Communication or Application of Number
A levels
- Minimum number of A Levels required: 3
- Is general studies acceptable? Acceptable only when combined with other qualifications
- Average A Level offer: BBC
- Are AS level awards acceptable? Acceptable only when combined with other qualifications
- Maximum AS Level points accepted: 20
BTECs
- National Certificate (RQF): Acceptable only when combined with other qualifications
- National Extended Certificate: Acceptable only when combined with other qualifications
- National Diploma (RQF): Acceptable only when combined with other qualifications
- National Extended Diploma (RQF): Acceptable only when combined with other qualifications
- National Extended Diploma subjects / grades required: DMM if studied on its own or to the total of 112 UCAS Tariff points when combined with other qualifications
Access awards
- Access to Higher Education Diploma acceptability: Acceptable on its own and combined with other qualifications
- Further information: At least 30 Distinctions and 15 Merits, or any other combination that equates to 112 UCAS Tariff points in a relevant subject
International Baccalaureate
- International Baccalaureate: Acceptable on its own and combined with other qualifications
- Additional information: 112 UCAS Tariff points from IB Composite parts, or in combination with other Level 3 qualifications
Irish awards
- Irish Leaving Certificate: Acceptable on its own and combined with other qualifications
- Grades / subjects required: 112 UCAS Tariff points with a maximum 20 UCAS Tariff points from Ordinary Level
Welsh awards
- Welsh Baccalaureate: Acceptable only when combined with other qualifications
T levels
- T Level requirements: 112 UCAS points in a relevant subject
NVQ
- Are Level 3 NVQs acceptable? Acceptable when combined with other qualifications
Alternative qualifications considered
Applications are welcomed from mature and non-standard applicants, who will be assessed on an individual basis. These applicants should demonstrate potential and motivation and/or have relevant experience.
All short-listed applicants are requested to submit a digital portfolio - portfolio guidance
Applicants are awarded an offer on the quality of their digital portfolio or work, and academic attainments.
International requirements
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IELTS
6.0 (minimum of 5.5 in each component) or equivalent English language proficiency test.
Further information
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Reduced offer scheme
As part of LJMU’s commitment to widening access we offer eligible students entry to their chosen course at a reduced threshold of up to 16/8 UCAS points. This applies if you are a student who has been in local authority care or if you have participated in one of LJMU’s sustained outreach initiatives, e.g. Summer University. Please contact the admission office for further details.
Please Note: All international qualifications are subject to a qualification equivalency check.
Application and selection
Securing your place at LJMU
UCAS is the official application route for our full-time undergraduate courses. Further information on the UCAS application process can be found here https://www.ljmu.ac.uk/study/undergraduate-students/how-to-apply.
All short-listed applicants are requested to submit a digital portfolio - portfolio guidance
Applicants are awarded an offer on the quality of their digital portfolio or work, and academic attainments.
We are looking for students with an enthusiasm for design, who wish to engage in the debate on the future of the built environment.
You should have a willingness to read the subject widely. You should be willing to gain first hand experience of buildings, towns and cities and acquire information retrieval techniques, as you will be expected to read around the subject and draw upon your findings for essays and projects.
You would be expected to meet the criteria below;
- Critically aware of their surroundings
- Capable of discussing Art & Design issues
- The ability to analyse and reflectively criticise your work and the work of others
- Visual awareness
The University reserves the right to withdraw or make alterations to a course and facilities if necessary; this may be because such changes are deemed to be beneficial to students, are minor in nature and unlikely to impact negatively upon students or become necessary due to circumstances beyond the control of the University. Where this does happen, the University operates a policy of consultation, advice and support to all enrolled students affected by the proposed change to their course or module.
Further information on the terms and conditions of any offer made, our admissions policy and the complaints and appeals process.