The Royal College of Art School of Architecture has launched two new MA programs: City Design and Environmental Architecture. Here, Dr. Adrian Lahoud, Dean of the School of Architecture at the RCA, explains more:
What is the main focus of the programs?
MA City Design proposes a multi-scalar approach to city design that brings together architectural, technological and scientific understandings of the city. For the first time in over a century, the fundamental building blocks of the city are poised to change. Revolutions in transport, logistics, energy and communications are arriving at the very moment that traditional social and political structures seem to be in crisis. In this context, students on the City Design MA program will explore how alternative ideas of life, work, nature, and culture might inform cities of the future.
MA Environmental Architecture will focus on the co-existence of different human societies with earth systems, landscapes, environments, and ecosystems. The program begins with the impact of climate change on environmental transformation and its social and spatial consequences. The MA Environmental Architecture proposes a distinctive pedagogical model that foregrounds the role of new environmental imaging technologies within design practice across multiple scales and epistemologies.
What makes these programs unique?
Both programs are 15-month, 240-credit project-based MA programs. The timetables have been designed to encourage participation from candidates who are currently working in practice, which means students do not have to choose between study and career as the two can be concurrent and mutually beneficial.
Does the RCA offer any financial help for these programs?
For 2017/18 entry, the School of Architecture is offering financial assistance through full-fee scholarships and partial bursaries based on merit and financial need.
What can the RCA offer potential students studying these programs?
Alongside the opportunity to establish a strong network of colleagues and mentors at the RCA, these new programs also offer students a unique opportunity to connect with leading figures in the field, through an innovative partnership scheme with practices in London. The students will be supported by industry mentors, to ensure they are embedded within architectural and environmental design practices at key points in their study and with the opportunity to make connections that will benefit their future careers.
What teaching staff will students have access to?
Along with current teaching staff from the RCA including Adrian Lahoud, Godofredo Pereira, Sam Jacoby, Maria Giudici, Jon Goodbun, David Knight, Alon Schwabe, Beth Hughes, Platon Issaias and Daniel Fernandez Pasqual, the program will host a series of internationally recognised visiting professors and seminar leaders who are making a significant contribution to the field of architecture, city design, and environmental architecture.
How can you find out more?
Please click here for more details on the programs and studying at the RCA.