EDINBURGH’S historic architecture and the modern architecture of Dubai are among the inspirations for a new master programme being launched by Heriot-Watt University.
The new master of architecture (MArch) degree, which is to be taught at the learning institute’s Edinburgh and Dubai campuses, will have a ‘strong focus’ on sustainable design, as global challenges including climate change reshape the built environment.
The two-year postgraduate programme aims to accelerate the route for students to qualify as professional architects with UK governing bodies, the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and the Architects Registration Board (ARB), and with the Commission for Academic Accreditation(CAA) in the United Arab Emirates.
Programme lead Dr Manuel Cresciani is a registered architect in both Italy and the UK and is an associate professor at Heriot-Watt’s school of energy, geoscience, infrastructure, and society.
He said, “With the launch of this new programme, we are able to align our course content with what industry and society need from a new generation of building designers. Using science and research to address environmental and societal challenges is a central focus for us at Heriot-Watt, so we are very well equipped to develop the next generation of building designers, with a strong ethical ethos as well.”
Professor Muhammed Basheer, executive dean for Heriot-Watt’s school of energy, geoscience, infrastructure, and society, added, “At a critical time for society and our planet, there has never been a greater need for architects to design buildings and spaces that are energy-efficient and reduce carbon emissions; that are safe, healthy and accessible to all, and that help to shape communities. We are incredibly excited to be launching this new Master of Architecture programme – and look forward to meeting our future cohorts of students.”
The new MArch degree will launch at Heriot-Watt’s Edinburgh campus in September 2025 and at the university’s Dubai campus in the United Arab Emirates in September 2026, opening the option of student exchanges.
Dr Cresciani continued, “Sustainable design for cities will be a key focus for our Master of Architecture students, so we’re very excited to be offering this Master programme in two such significant cities.
“Edinburgh is the historic capital of an old country and Dubai is a vibrant new city that’s less than 100 years old. To have access to both ultra-modern and heritage architecture is fantastic for our student experience – and also builds the competence and skills needed by new generations of professional architects.”
To apply for the programme, students should have an undergraduate architecture degree recognised by Heriot-Watt University. However, a related degree, for example, architectural engineering, interior architecture or architectural technology, or relevant industry experience, will also be considered.
The programme is supported by partners including architectural practice Bennetts Associates.
The new degree is delivered and supported by a team of academics with vast experience of teaching architecture in UK and internationally. These include Dr Alex MacLaren, associate professor in architecture at Heriot-Watt University; Dr Harpreet Seth, Heriot-Watt’s head of architecture in Dubai; professor Omar Laghrouche, director of Heriot-Watt’s Institute for Sustainable Built Environment; and professor Lynne Jack, director of Heriot-Watt’s Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Building Design.
An online webinar explaining more about Heriot-Watt’s new MArch degree is being held on Tuesday 18th February 2025. Prospective students interested in joining can register here.
