Overview
The course is intended for those graduates who hold a Master of Architecture degree (or its equivalent with ARB/RIBA Part II exemption) and who wish to proceed to full professional status with the ability to practice as an architect in the UK.
Our Architectural Practice and Management PGDip prepares you for employment as an architect. You’ll be able to take full responsibility as a practising professional. You’ll also understand your role and obligations in the construction industry and society.
Important information
We’ve highlighted important information about your course. Please take note of any deadlines.
Your course and study experience – disclaimers and terms and conditions
Please rest assured we make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the programmes, services and facilities described. However, it may be necessary to make changes due to significant disruption, for example in response to Covid-19.
View our Academic experience page, which gives information about your Newcastle University study experience for the academic year 2024-25.
See our terms and conditions and student complaints information, which gives details of circumstances that may lead to changes to programmes, modules or University services.
What you’ll learn
You’ll be taught through compulsory modules.
Modules
You will study modules on this course. A module is a unit of a course with its own approved aims and outcomes and assessment methods.
Course content changes
Module information is intended to provide an example of what you will study.
Our teaching is informed by research. Course content changes periodically to reflect developments in the discipline, the requirements of external bodies and partners, and student feedback.
Full details of the modules on offer will be published through the Programme Regulations and Specifications ahead of each academic year. This usually happens in May.
To find out more please see our terms and conditions.
Optional modules availability
Some courses have optional modules. Student demand for optional modules may affect availability.
Qualifications explained
Find out about the different qualification options for this course.
A PGDip is awarded if you successfully complete all of the taught modules (120 credits).
Find out about different types of postgraduate qualifications
How you’ll learn
The course runs from September to August of the following year (12 months). Teaching is delivered in block sessions.
Each teaching block will be delivered online and where possible, on campus through a mix of:
- lectures
- seminars
- student presentations
- group discussions
- scenario-based workshops
Depending on your modules, you’ll be assessed through a combination of:
- Case study
- Essay
- Oral presentation
- Portfolio
- Report
- Reflective log
Additional assessment information
Assessment is by coursework, this involves:
- 2 x 1,000 word essays
- 2 x 3,000 word scenario reports
- 1 x 2,000 word personal appraisal
- 1 x 6,000 word Case Study
You’ll also take an oral examination.
Your teaching and learning is also supported by Canvas. Canvas is a Virtual Learning Environment. You’ll use Canvas to submit your assignments and access your:
- module handbooks
- course materials
- groups
- course announcements and notifications
- written feedback
Throughout your studies, you’ll have access to support from:
- peers
- academics
- personal tutors
- our University Student Services Team
- student representatives
You’ll also be assigned an academic member of staff. They will be your personal tutor throughout your time with us. They can help with academic and personal issues.
This architectural design course’s current association (2018-19) is with Visiting Professor Sir Terry Farrell, a Newcastle graduate. His world-respected practice Farrells has offices in Shanghai, Hong Kong, London and Manchester. His projects include:
- Beijing South Station
- KK100 Building in Shenzhen
- the MI6 Building in London
- various other projects in Newcastle
Your future
Graduate destinations
Graduate have pursued careers both in architectural practice and academia.
We foster an entrepreneurial environment that ensures you’ll be well prepared to continue to make active contributions within your chosen career.
Our Careers Service
Our award-winning Careers Service is one of the largest and best in the country, and we have strong links with employers. We provide an extensive range of opportunities to all students through our ncl+ initiative.
Quality and ranking
- 42% of our research is classified as 4* world-leading research – Research Excellence Framework 2021
- 65% increase in research power since 2014 – Research Excellence Framework 2021
- Global Top 130 University – QS World University Rankings 2025
- Global Top 170 University – Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024
- Top 100 for Architecture/Built Environment – QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024
- Top 125 for Arts and Humanities – Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2025
- Top 25 in the UK and Top 100 in the world for sustainable development – Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2024
Professional accreditation and recognition
Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and Architects Registration Board (ARB)
Our Architectural Practice and Management Diploma (APMD) is prescribed by the Architects Registration Board (ARB) and is validated by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) as meeting the standards for the final Part 3 qualification required to practice as an Architect in the UK. Successful completion of the course allows admission to the Register of Architects as maintained by ARB and permits full membership of the RIBA.
All professional accreditations are reviewed regularly by their professional body
Recognition of professional qualifications outside of the UK
From 1 January 2021 there is an update to the way professional qualifications are recognised by countries outside of the UK
Facilities
You’ll be based in one of the UK’s leading Schools of Architecture. We aim to provide a lively design studio culture across our professional courses making the School a thriving and creative place to be. Our well-equipped workshop includes some of the latest digital and biological manufacturing tools.
The School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape has excellent studio teaching facilities. Our facilities include:
- lively design studios
- exhibition spaces
- well-equipped workshop including the latest digital manufacturing technology
- wet fabrication lab including 3D printers
- molecular biology lab (one of the first in the world to be administered by a school of architecture)
- print media suite
- IT suites
Entry requirements
The entrance requirements below apply to 2025 entry.
Academic entry requirements
You must hold exemption from the ARB/RIBA Part I and Part II examinations. You should also:
- have completed at least 12 months practical training
- be employed in an approved architectural practice or related organisation