MPhil in Architecture by Thesis

The MPhil degree by thesis introduces students to research skills and specialist knowledge. Its main aims are:

• to give students with relevant experience at a first-degree level the opportunity to carry out focused research in the discipline under close supervision
• to give students the opportunity to acquire or develop skills and expertise relevant to their research interests

The department welcomes applications from postgraduates to undertake research towards an MPhil in most areas, including Urban Studies, History and Theory of Architecture and Urbanism, Digital Media Design and Communication, Design, Technology, Planning and Environment. However, the department cannot accept candidates for whom no supervisor is available. Unless the candidate is part of a research group, the research is undertaken entirely by the candidate on their own, with regular supervision of progress with the supervisor. To be eligible for consideration, applicants will need an appropriate level of architectural expertise and a clear idea of the area in which the thesis will be written.

This MPhil is not a taught programme. Instead, it admits applicants who meet the academic admissions criteria and whose research interests match those of an available academic staff member willing to act as the student's supervisor. In addition to the research and skills training programme offered by the Department of Architecture, candidates have the opportunity to attend numerous training and personal development courses.

The department is one of the leading institutions in architectural research units in the UK, with over four decades of successful global research. Research typically crosses traditional research boundaries.

Candidates are asked to note that the MPhil in Architecture (by Thesis) does not offer a direct pathway to PhD study, and those interested in a future PhD may wish to consider the taught MPhil in Architecture and Urban Studies. Students wishing to proceed to a PhD at Cambridge after completion are required to apply in the usual way and will be treated equally alongside all the other candidates, internally or externally.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the programme, students will have acquired the type of research training required to pursue a PhD, or if conceived as a standalone degree, it would have equipped the candidates with enough skills to specialise and enhance their professional prospects.

Continuing

Candidates are asked to note that the MPhil in Architecture (by Thesis) does not offer a direct pathway to PhD study, and those interested in a future PhD may wish to consider the taught MPhil in Architecture and Urban Studies. Students wishing to proceed to a PhD at Cambridge after completion are required to apply in the usual way and will be treated equally alongside all the other candidates, internally or externally.

Open Days

The University hosts and attends fairs and events throughout the year, in the UK and across the world. We also offer online events to help you explore your options:

• Discover Cambridge: Master’s and PhD study webinars - these Spring events provide practical information about applying for postgraduate study.

• Postgraduate Virtual Open Days - taking place in November each year, the Open Days focus on subject and course information.

For more information about upcoming events visit our events pages.