(Full time) 2022 start
Architectural Engineering MEng, BEng
Overview
Architectural engineering brings to life the high-performance buildings of the future, addressing our growing need for more sustainable, climate change resilient, energy efficient and smart places to live, work and spend time.
The next generation of architectural engineers will bring together a range of skills, disciplines and technologies and apply them in new and exciting ways. From harnessing the power of renewables and managing energy use more efficiently, to designing for re-use and using technology to enhance lighting, acoustics and comfort within a building.
Studying architectural engineering at Leeds will put you at the forefront of new and emerging technologies and approaches to both building structures and the systems within them. You’ll learn how to get results from a multi-disciplinary approach, collaborate with professionals, and play an important role in building a sustainable future for everyone.
Our degree programmes develop world-class engineers who contribute actively to sustainable and economic growth whilst setting and maintaining the highest ethical standards, embracing diversity and inclusion and delivering the infrastructure we all rely on in everyday life. That’s one of the reasons why our courses are accredited by several leading professional bodies and are shaped by our world-leading research.
This is a practical course, so in addition to design studio space, you’ll also have access to extensive library facilities, industry standard software, and impressive laboratories with specialist facilities for structures, materials, public health engineering, building services and geotechnics – everything you need to begin your career as an architectural engineer.
Why study at Leeds:
Graduate with an accredited architectural engineering degree which meets the highest quality chartered engineer standards as set by the Engineering Council via the JBM and CIBSE.
Design studio work is a key part of our Architectural Engineering degree, giving you valuable hands-on experience and putting into practice the theoretical principles and the creative and technical skills you have learned.
Access excellent laboratory facilities, as well as industry standard software such as Revit (Building Information Modelling), IES (dynamic thermal modelling) and Robot (structural analysis).
Develop your experience and boost your career prospects with our paid industrial placement opportunities or study abroad programmes.
Take advantage of our world leading research here at Leeds, which helps to address societal and technical challenges with infrastructure around the world.
Make the most of university partnerships which include long-standing collaborations with the Institute for Transport Studies, Robotics at Leeds and the Centre for Global Development and leadership roles in major initiatives including water@leeds, an interdisciplinary centre for water research, the Institute for High Speed Rail and System Integration, the Centre for Infrastructure Materials, and the Neville Centre of Excellence in Cement and Concrete Engineering.
Have the reassurance of being able to transfer between Architectural Engineering and any other of the School’s programmes at the end of the first year. You can also transfer to Architecture at the end of the second year, if you wish.
Accreditation
The MEng, BEng programme in Architectural Engineering is accredited as satisfying fully the academic requirements for progression to Chartered Engineer (CEng) status.
The BEng programme is accredited as satisfying fully the academic requirements for an Incorporated Engineer (IEng), and satisfying partially the academic requirements for Chartered Engineer status (CEng). A course of accredited “Further Learning” will be required to complete the academic requirements for CEng. See Joint Board of Moderators (JBM) for more information and details of Further Learning courses for CEng.
Accreditation of these programmes is awarded by the Joint Board of Moderators (JBM). The JBM represents The Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE), the Permanent Way Institution (PWI), Institute of Highway Engineers (IHE), The Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation (CIHT) and the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE). These 5 professional bodies act under licence from the UK regulator for engineering, the Engineering Council. The course is also accredited by the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE).
The Architectural Engineering programmes at Leeds, developed in the 1970s, were the first of their type in the UK and the first in the UK to achieve dual accreditation (from JBM and CIBSE).
Accreditation is a mark of excellence and confidence – it is confirmation that the degree programmes help to develop professional engineers with the highest technical and ethical standards who meet the needs of industry and Society.
The University of Leeds is proud to be one of a small number of UK universities to have formed a working partnership with the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE). This partnership helps those students who aspire to become professionally qualified civil engineers (CEng, MICE) to have the best possible start to their civil engineering careers.
Accreditation by the JBM and CIBSE also means that the Architectural Engineering programmes are EUR-ACE labelled. This means that they also meet the framework standards and guidelines of EUR-ACE (EURopean ACcredited Engineer) and that the accreditation is recognised in the 48 member states of the European Higher Education Area.
See EUR-ACE for more information.
Course content
The course integrates creative and technical knowledge and practice in architecture, structural and building services engineering – all underpinned by world-class research and industrial practice. You’ll be exploring creative design issues in practical, real world project settings.
Every degree course within the School of Civil Engineering shares a common first year. You’ll complete six compulsory modules across the range of programmes offered, giving you a firm basis on which to specialise in later years, and the flexibility to switch between courses.
You can choose to study either the four-year Integrated Masters (MEng, BEng) or the three-year Bachelor’s (BEng).
Year one
Architectural Engineering students are introduced to the fundamental principles of materials, structures, water engineering, soil mechanics and construction. They also attend a residential surveying field course in year one – this is a compulsory part of the architectural engineering programmes; there are no additional fees to pay for this.
Year two
You’ll consolidate your technical knowledge of structural design and analysis, materials, water engineering, geotechnics and building physics. You’ll also develop a more academic approach to architectural history and theory. As with the first year, the design studio is the core through which you develop your learning in architectural engineering design projects (referred to as “Design Studio” modules).
Year three
You’ll enhance your engineering knowledge in structures, geotechnics, materials and building physics and demonstrate an integrated understanding of creative and technical building design in your third year design studio work (typically a multi-storey office building design). You’ll also undertake an individual research project which will enhance your research and independent study skills.
(Optional) One-year work placement or study abroad
You can choose to take up a one year industrial placement during your third year (BEng) or during your third or fourth year (MEng, BEng) which will extend your degree by 12 months.
Alternatively, if you choose the four year MEng, BEng programme you can choose to spend your third year studying abroad. This will not extend your studies. You then return to Leeds to complete your final year.
Year four (MEng)
Your final year will focus on two inter-linked design studio exercises. These design projects will involve concept and detailed design of a complex building with a strong community focus. In semester one you will consider two alternative (and quite different) sites and your design work will be linked to research-focused modules in architectural history and theory and building physics. When undertaking your design studio work you’ll also learn more about structures, geotechnics, and the context of the construction industry in management, practice and law.
In Semester two, you’ll concentrate on a sophisticated building design project where significant parts of the brief, development and execution are largely set by you. Your project will demonstrate a fully integrated architectural design including structures and building services, to a high standard of visual communication skills. As part of this work you will use structural and dynamic thermal modelling software to help you to develop your final detailed design proposals.
Engineering ethics
You’ll study engineering ethics as part of your course, with lectures and/or seminars in each year of your study. Visit our engineering ethics webpage to find out more.
Course structure
The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our terms and conditions.
Learning and teaching
Studio based learning is at the heart of the architectural engineering student experience, with open-ended and creative architectural engineering design projects used to demonstrate and develop the knowledge you gain in other modules. The course is centred in a studio space designed to host lectures, tutorials and personal study. In the studio environment, you will benefit from learning from your peers, the academic teaching team and design tutors from practice.
Laboratory classes and industry sponsored fieldwork also allow you to gain hands-on experience investigating and applying the knowledge and understanding you gain from your lectures and tutorials to real life work situations. A major feature of the architectural engineering programme is the extensive use of small-group tutorials, in which you will receive advice and guidance from building services, structural and architectural specialists with further input from practising engineers and architects.
Much of the course is delivered by a dedicated teaching team within the school, comprised of professionally qualified and experienced engineers and architects, supported by practice-based architects who are part of the studio tutoring team. You’ll also benefit from the range of scientific and technical expertise provided by the School of Civil Engineering. Our close links with industry also mean that you have direct contact with industry and potential employers from an early stage in your course. In your first year you will be allocated an industrial tutor who will provide you with opportunities to visit construction sites and design offices.
You’ll be assigned a personal tutor to guide you through your studies, and you will receive support from fellow students through our Peer Assisted Study Support (PASS) scheme. PASS mentors are students who are on your course but are in Years two or three. They’ll help you when you arrive at University and throughout your first year. You’ll meet your PASS mentors during your first week for a social activity.
Our Virtual Learning Environment will help to support your studies: it’s a central place where you can find all the information and resources for the School, your programme and modules.
You can also benefit from support to develop your academic skills, within the curriculum and through online resources, workshops, one-to-one appointments and drop-in sessions.
Watch our taster lectures to get a flavour of what it’s like to study at Leeds:
On this course you’ll be taught by our expert academics, from lecturers through to professors. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus.
Assessment
You will be assessed both through written examinations, held at the end of each year, and through various types of coursework including design exercises, reports, scale models of your proposed building designs, presentation boards, oral presentations, drawings and design reviews.
Entry requirements, fees and applying
Entry requirements
A-level: AAA including Mathematics.
Where an A-Level Science subject is taken, we require a pass in the practical science element, alongside the achievement of the A-Level at the stated grade.
Excludes A-Levels General Studies and Critical Thinking.
Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) and International Project Qualification (IPQ): We recognise the value of these qualifications and the effort and enthusiasm that applicants put into them, and where an applicant offers an A in the EPQ or IPQ we may make an offer of AAB at A-Level (any required subjects such as Mathematics must still be at grade A).
All applicants must be studying Mathematics at level 3. For most students, this requirement is fulfilled by achieving the required grade in A-level Maths. Applicants for whom this requirement is to be fulfilled via qualifications other than A-levels (eg BTEC Maths and Additional/Further Maths modules) may be required to take a diagnostic Maths test in addition to their other level 3 maths studies. This is to ensure a suitable level of mathematical literacy.
GCSE: English Language at grade C (4) or above, or an appropriate English language qualification. We will accept Level 2 Functional Skills English in lieu of GCSE English.
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Access to HE Diploma
Pass 60 credits overall with 45 credits at Level 3, 30 credits with Distinction (including an appropriate number of Mathematics modules) and the remaining 15 credits with Merit or above.
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BTEC
D*DD (RQF) with Distinctions in all Mathematics units including Maths and Further Maths (and/or other appropriate maths units) plus an interview and diagnostic Maths test. Some units may be optional on your BTEC but are required by the Faculty. Please contact us for further information.
Please note - there may be different requirements for the older QCF BTEC's, please contact Admissions.
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Cambridge Pre-U
D3, D3, D3 including Mathematics.
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International Baccalaureate
35 points overall, with 18 points at higher level to include 5 points in HL Mathematics.
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Irish Leaving Certificate (higher Level)
H1 H2 H2 H2 H2 H2 including Mathematics.
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Scottish Highers / Advanced Highers
AA at Advanced Higher level, including Mathematics, and AABBB at Higher level.
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Other Qualifications
Engineering or Construction Diploma: A (plus A-level Mathematics at grade A or above). We will consider your application if you have AS level Mathematics.
T Level in Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction at Distinction, with A level Mathematics at grade B or higher.
Read more about UK and Republic of Ireland accepted qualifications or contact the Schools Undergraduate Admissions Team.
Alternative entry
We’re committed to identifying the best possible applicants, regardless of personal circumstances or background.
Access to Leeds is a contextual admissions scheme which accepts applications from individuals who might be from low income households, in the first generation of their immediate family to apply to higher education, or have had their studies disrupted.
Find out more about Access to Leeds and contextual admissions.
Typical Access to Leeds A Level offer: ABB including Mathematics.
For alternative qualification offers please contact the admissions team.
If you do not have the formal qualifications for immediate entry to one of our degrees, you may be able to progress through a foundation year. We offer a Studies in Science with Foundation Year BSc for students without a science background at A-level and an Interdisciplinary Science with Foundation Year BSc for applicants who meet specific widening participation criteria.
International Foundation Year
International students who do not meet the academic requirements for undergraduate study may be able to study the University of Leeds International Foundation Year. This gives you the opportunity to study on campus, be taught by University of Leeds academics and progress onto a wide range of Leeds undergraduate courses. Find out more about International Foundation Year programmes.
English language requirements
IELTS 6.0 overall, with no less than 5.5 in each section. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.
Improve your English
If you're an international student and you don't meet the English language requirements for this programme, you may be able to study our undergraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.
How to apply
Apply to this course through UCAS. Check the deadline for applications on the UCAS website.
We may consider applications submitted after the deadline. Availability of courses in UCAS Extra will be detailed on UCAS at the appropriate stage in the cycle.
Read our guidance about applying and writing your personal statement.
International students apply through UCAS in the same way as UK students. Our network of international representatives can help you with your application. If you’re unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.
Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.
Admissions policy
University of Leeds Taught Admissions Policy 2024
Fees
UK: See fees section below
International: £25,250 (per year)
Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2024/25
Tuition fees for UK full-time undergraduate students are set by the UK Government and will be £9,250 for students starting in 2024/25.
The fee may increase in future years of your course in line with inflation only, as a consequence of future changes in Government legislation and as permitted by law.
Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2025/26
Tuition fees for UK full-time undergraduate students starting in 2025/26 have not yet been confirmed by the UK government. When the fee is available we will update individual course pages.
Tuition fees for international undergraduate students starting in 2024/25 and 2025/26
Tuition fees for international students for 2024/25 are available on individual course pages. Fees for students starting in 2025/26 will be available from September 2024.
Tuition fees for a study abroad or work placement year
If you take a study abroad or work placement year, you’ll pay a reduced tuition fee during this period. For more information, see Study abroad and work placement tuition fees and loans.
Read more about paying fees and charges.
There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more on our living costs and budgeting page.
Financial support
If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There is help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government. Find out more in our Undergraduate funding overview.
Career opportunities
There are a variety of exciting career opportunities awaiting you when you graduate – from specialist building design consultancies, to muti-disciplinary firms, to some of the largest construction organisations in the world. Architectural engineering graduates are in great demand and University of Leeds students are among the top 5 most targeted by top employers according to The Graduate Market 2022, High Fliers Research.
Typically, the majority of graduates each year secure professional or managerial positions and take their first steps in their career as structural, civil or building services engineers, design engineers, architectural engineers or architectural consultants.
Here’s an insight into the job roles some of our most recent graduates have obtained:
Engineer, BDP
Engineer, E.C.Harris
Engineer, Heyne Tillett Steel
Civil Engineer, URS
Design Engineer, AECOM
Structural Design Engineer, AKT II
Design Engineer, AKT II
Design Engineer, Arup
Graduate Structural Engineer, Arup
Lighting Designer, Arup
Continuous Improvement Engineer, Balfour Beatty
Civil Engineer, Buro Happold
Associate - Facade Engineering, Buro Happold Consulting Engineers
Graduate Engineer, Curtins
Graduate Engineer, Elliott Wood
Assistant Architect with Engineering Excellence, Laing O'Rourke
Design Engineer, Morph Structures
Graduate Mechanical Building Services Engineer, Mott MacDonald
Senior Project Manager, Pride Projects
Graduate Engineer, Renaissance Ltd
Architectural assistant, Ryder Architecture
Assistant Engineer, WS Atkins Consultants Ltd
Director of Urban Design, WSP
Graduate Engineer, WSP Global
Graduate Structural Engineer, WYG Group
Graduate building physicist, Yonder Consulting
Read profiles of our alumni to find out more about where some of our graduates are working.
Careers support
At Leeds we help you to prepare for your future from day one. Our Leeds for Life initiative is designed to help you develop and demonstrate the skills and experience you need for when you graduate. We will help you to access opportunities across the University and record your key achievements so you are able to articulate them clearly and confidently.
You will be supported throughout your studies by our dedicated Employability team, who will provide you with specialist support and advice to help you find relevant work experience, internships and industrial placements, as well as graduate positions. You’ll benefit from timetabled employability sessions, support during internships and placements, and presentations and workshops delivered by employers.
You will also have full access to the University’s Careers Centre, which is one of the largest in the country.
Visit our Careers and employability page to find out more.
There are also plenty of exciting ways you can volunteer during your time at Leeds. Find out more at the Leeds University Union website.
Study abroad and work placements
Study abroad
On this course you have the opportunity to apply to spend time abroad, usually as an extra academic year. We have over 300 University partners worldwide and popular destinations for our students include Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, South Africa and Latin America.
Find out more at the Study Abroad website.
On the four year MEng, BEng degree course, you can choose to spend your third year studying abroad. The optional study abroad year does not extend your studies. You simply complete your third year at one of three specially selected universities in the USA: Drexel University, the University of Kansas or the University of Nebraska-Omaha. You then return to Leeds to complete the final year of your degree.
Studying abroad is a unique opportunity to travel further afield whilst gaining invaluable skills and experience that could enhance your future employability and career prospects too.
Find out more about study abroad in the School of Civil Engineering.
Work placements
Practical work experience can help you decide on your career and improve your employability. On this course you have the option to apply to take a placement year module with organisations across the public, private and voluntary sectors in the UK, or overseas.
Find out more about work experience on the Careers website.
An industrial placement year is a great way to help you decide on a career path when you graduate. You’ll develop your skills and gain a real insight into working life in a particular company or sector. It will also improve your employability and help you to stand out in a competitive graduate jobs market.
Benefits of a work placement year:
100+ organisations to choose from, both in the UK and overseas
All placements are salaried
Build industry contacts within your chosen field
Our close industry links mean you’ll be in direct contact with potential employers
Advance your experience and skills by putting the course teachings into practice
Gain invaluable insight into working as a professional in this industry
Improve your employability
If you decide to undertake a placement year this will extend your period of study by 12 months and, on successful completion, you will be awarded the ‘industrial’ variant in your degree title to demonstrate your added experience to future employers.
With the help and support of our dedicated Employability team, you can find the right placement to suit you and your future career goals.
Here are some examples of placements our students have recently completed:
Arcadis
Evolve Consulting Engineers Limited
Price & Myers
Cummins
Nationwide Structures Ltd
Yonder
Find out more about industrial placements.