Masters in Architecture in Ireland 2024 – Course Walkthrough

Attention all aspiring architects and design enthusiasts! 

Are you looking to enhance your skills and knowledge in architecture?

If so, look no further than Ireland – the land of stunning castles, ancient ruins, and innovative modern buildings.

Ireland’s rich architectural heritage and innovative design practices make it an ideal destination for those pursuing a Masters in Architecture.

With top-ranked universities, experienced faculty, and a focus on sustainable design, Ireland offers a unique learning environment for aspiring architects. 

Join us as we explore the many benefits of pursuing a Masters in Architecture in Ireland.

Why Study Masters in Architecture in Ireland?

Architectural studies in Ireland have several unique features that distinguish them from other countries:

1. Emphasis on sustainable design: Ireland is known for its focus on sustainable design and green building practices. This is partly due to the country’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. As a result, many architecture programs in Ireland strongly emphasise sustainable design principles.
2. A strong connection to history and tradition: Ireland has a rich architectural history, with many buildings and structures dating back centuries. All architecture master’s programs in Ireland strongly emphasise preserving and celebrating the country’s architectural heritage. Your course, by default, incorporates contemporary design elements and techniques into traditions.
3. A collaborative approach to design: Architecture programs in Ireland emphasise interdisciplinary teamwork and communication. This is reflected in the way many programs are structured. Students work closely with professionals from other fields, such as engineering, construction, and urban planning.
4. World-renowned universities: Masters in Architecture in Ireland can be pursued in universities that rank among the top 1-3% of global universities. In particular, the UCD School of Architecture has long been a pioneer in architectural study (for 117 years). This institution is ranked among the top 150 universities worldwide regarding the subject matter. 
5. Focus on internationalization: Ireland has a strong tradition of welcoming international students and professionals. Many architecture master’s programs in Ireland reflect this international outlook. This can be seen in the diverse range of students and faculty members in many programs and the opportunities for study abroad and international internships.

Top Masters Programs in Architecture in Ireland

These are the best Architecture Masters in Ireland for international students:

Masters in Architecture Programs in Ireland: Course Walkthrough

1. MPhil History of Art and Architecture

The TCD Architecture Masters in Ireland is based on a close look at the amazing campus and area collections. This feature makes the lesson stand out. The way the lesson is taught is based on collections of Irish and non-Irish art held in collections in Ireland. 

MPhil History of Art & Architecture is best suited for those considering further research or careers working in museums, galleries, auction centres, academia, cultural media, or heritage centres. 

2. MArchSc Landscape Studies:

This program is designed for graduates interested in deepening their understanding of modern landscapes. Contemporary landscape themes are critically addressed in this research-based program. 

The study of landscape is an interdisciplinary field in which students are encouraged to shape their own studies. Interdisciplinary exchange is fundamental to this course, which is co-taught by or with other disciplines. Direct experience of the Irish landscape is encouraged through excursions and site visits.

3. MArchSc Sustainable Building Design & Performance 

Students are encouraged to interpret themselves within sustainability, architecture, energy, environment and health. 

Using a variety of methodologies, you can come up with appropriate solutions for sustainable building design in an interdisciplinary environment.

4. ME Structural Engineering with Architecture

This is a 2-year Architecture Master’s fully accredited to Engineers in Ireland holding international recognition.

You will be provided with the knowledge of scientific, mathematical, and engineering research tools to improve the formulation, analysis, and solution of difficult structural engineering problems.

5. MSc Architecture, Urbanism, & Climate Action

Urban environments and buildings have a profound impact on the climate crisis. This explains why the environmental sustainability sector is expected to expand widely in the upcoming days.

This program will help you stay ahead of the curve by responding to the challenge of planning, designing, and implementing a sustainable built environment.

You can participate in prestigious industry-collaborative research projects at UCD to prepare for advanced careers in sustainable practice, consulting, policy, and academia.

6. MA Landscape Architecture

This advanced two-year Masters in Architecture in Ireland pushes students to identify and design solutions for contemporary Irish society.

MA Landscape Architecture emphasises creating wildlife outside of urban analytical and project constraints.

Modules let you critically evaluate standard planning and engineering methods. Students will set out to investigate alternatives to find better, more beautiful, and sustainable solutions that work with nature to benefit everybody.

7. MSc Urban Design & Planning:

This course stresses that urban design interfaces architecture and urban planning.

The modules equip students with knowledge and skills in urban design theory and practice, urban conservation, nature-based solutions, and the relationship between research and design. This is suitable for students in architecture or related disciplines. 

If you are research-oriented, check out the graduate research program on urban design at UCD. 

8. MSc Planning, Development, and Urban Design:

This course is for Architects on the RIAI Register of Architects or persons eligible to seek registration as an architect in Ireland without further assessment.

Modules teach students to analyse urban solutions critically and provide guidance concerning their implementation.

You will get opportunities to continue a career in architectural practice with a specialisation in the sought-after areas of spatial planning and urban design. However, there are also various other career paths for this program. 

9. MA Architecture:

You can deal with complex design problems in a challenging architectural context. It is a 1 to 2 years full-time course that involves studio projects, academic writing, and practical experiments.

An Architectural Science degree allows you to work globally in the architectural and creative fields and other areas such as policy, consulting, and academia.

People also Read: Best Design Masters in Ireland

Tuition fees:

Read more: Cost of Studying in Ireland

Admission Requirements for Architecture Masters in Ireland

Ireland has a wide range of architecture courses for you to specialise in areas of design, history, sustainability, engineering, and much more. 

That said, the UG requirements change depending on the course you choose. 

For example, TCD’s MPhil in History and Architecture is for people with a background in art history or a related field. ME Structural engineering is for people with a civil or structural engineering background. However, a minimum score of 2.1 or 2.2 honours in your bachelorette is expected. 

Students who have to show proof of their English language need an IELTS minimum of 6.5 or equivalent score. 

Read more: Complete Requirements to Study in Ireland

Career Prospects After Completing a Masters in Architecture in Ireland

Completing a Masters in Architecture in Ireland can open up promising opportunities for graduates. 

Ireland’s growing construction industry strongly focuses on sustainable design and energy-efficient buildings.

As a result, many graduates with a Masters in Architecture in Ireland find employment in architectural firms, engineering companies, or construction companies.

They may work on various projects, from designing new buildings and renovations to urban planning and landscape design.

Average Salary:

Morgan McKinley reports that the average salary for Architects working in Dublin is €45,000 – €55,000 per annum (40.3 lakhs–49.3 – 49.3 lakhs). A person with one year of experience can expect an average salary of €26,000 to €33,000 annually. 

Read more: Job Opportunities in Ireland for Indian Students

Conclusion

Masters in Architecture in Ireland can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience for those interested in the field.

With its rich history, stunning architecture, and innovative design practices, Ireland offers a unique learning environment for aspiring architects. 

Moreover, the increasing focus on sustainable design and green building practices in Irish makes it an ideal destination for those looking to impact the environment positively. 

So, if you are passionate about architecture and design and seeking to enhance your skills and knowledge, consider pursuing a Masters in Architecture in Ireland today!

FAQs

• How long does it take to complete a Masters in Architecture program in Ireland?

The duration of a Masters in Architecture program in Ireland can vary depending on the university and the specific program.

Typically, it takes one to two years to complete a full-time program, and two to four years to complete a part-time program.

• What is the focus on sustainability and green building practices in Masters in Architecture programs in Ireland?

Sustainability and green building practices are increasingly becoming a focus of Masters in Architecture in Ireland.

Many programs incorporate sustainable design principles and green building practices into their curricula, focusing on energy efficiency, renewable energy, and low carbon emissions. Students are encouraged to explore and incorporate sustainable design principles into their design work.

• What is the teaching methodology followed by architecture schools in Ireland?

Depending on the university and the particular program, the teaching methods used by architecture schools in Ireland can vary.

However, the programs typically combine lectures, studio work, design projects, and site visits. Students are encouraged to develop critical thinking skills and to work collaboratively on design projects.