Advanced Sustainable Design – (M.Sc.)

Contents

These include a mixture of studio-based design projects, course work, independent research and a dissertation element.

You'll learn why sustainability is important in the built environment and some of the key ways in which it is measured. We look at sustainable cities, neighbourhoods and how to design responsibly for a variety of different building types. We examine architectural design and discuss different and often competing approaches to making sustainable buildings. The contradictions, that are often encountered in environmental agendas are debated using seminars, weblogs and discussion boards. This segment is delivered either at Edinburgh or through distance learning.

Where theory is very much put into practice with a design project based in a UK city. This creative process will address complex issues of site and programme from a sustainable perspective. It will delve into such questions as how we design for a less mobile society, the difficult relationship between the urban and the environmental and the role of technology in sustainable design. Visiting tutors and critics give breadth and depth to the projects. You have the opportunity to undertake a design elaboration course to reflect in greater depth on your design work and use environmental modelling software. Both distance learners and on campus students study in Edinburgh

This is your opportunity to research and reflect on any topic within the field of architecture and sustainability that interests you. It could be based on your design project work or related to your own professional background and experiences. The result will be a substantial work that will demonstrate not only knowledge of the topic you’ve researched, but practical skills in the assembly of a complex yet coherent narrative. You can choose to study this course either on campus or through distance learning.

on campus

You study for a full year starting towards the end of September. The first semester is an intense series of projects that explore sustainable design at every scale. We have a series of visiting speakers and you're encouraged to immerse yourself in the life of our architecture school.

The second semester sees you join colleagues who have been distance learning to work on a series of design projects putting into practice the theory you've learnt. We also have a short field trip to look at some examples of cutting edge design and enjoy the Scottish Highlands

mixed mode

If you are in work or have other commitments, and can't afford a full year away, then consider mixed mode.

You study our Principles sections through our interactive web site and e-learning material. You engage in projects quite similar to colleagues on campus for the whole year.

You then study in Edinburgh for a semester, starting in early January and ending in April although you do have the option of staying through until May.You share a studio for the spring semester and also can come on our field trip.