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Would studying an MA in Architectural Design open up more opportunities for work within the field

Last year I graduated with a first class B.A. (Hons) in Interior Architecture. I've been trying to find work within the interior and architectural fields and established that there seem to be no open positions for graduates.

I've registered with many creative recruitment sites and have been speculatively applying to practices and the only vacancies available are for people with years of experience. I've even been trying to obtain voluntary work so that I can make contacts which would hopefully lead me to employment.

So now I'm thinking (if I still haven't found any work within the creative field) of studying this year for an MA in Architectural Design for two reasons. Firstly, to continue my studies at a more advanced level and secondly, to ride the recession. By doing this,I feel I am keeping my options open.

Do you think this plan will give me more scope for work after the recession is over or should I continue hunting for work?

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4 answers

  • 1

del hossain

An MA in Architectural Design is unfortunately not a substitute for the RIBA's trilogy courses. The MA is a 'nice to have,' but non essential dressage to the constituents of an architects professional qualifications. The logic for riding out the recession via a 12 months sabbatical in university is a smart move, and for sure if you do an MA, or an MSc that is topical and practical (or if you can project the usefulness to the profession in some way), then it could be a good utilisation of time.

Ideas that spring to mind are masters courses in 'Project Management, Sustainability, Energy use in buildings, Development Architecture (as the scope to offer advise internationally becomes more relevant, in a global economy). MA's in what I would term more 'purely academical,' such as History of Architecture,' or 'Philosophy and Aesthetics,' might not be the most practical for practice, so in a nutshell it depends on 'which MA/MSc you do!'.

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  • 0

aa_87 [ Editor ]

Doing an MA shows that you are spending your time positively in a time when work is not readily available. It may not have commercial value but it shows you are keen to continue study and learning.

There are nuances to both Interior Design and Architecture and doing an MA will definitely give you a deeper level of understanding in architecture. There are a number of architectural practices that employ interior designers, we are one of them.

You could consider part time study, so it doesn't exclude you from looking for work and accepting a position if something comes up during your study. London Metropolitan University has some good MA architectural (and interior design) courses that can be worked around a full time position.

By undertaking studies and activities within the design profession you will meet more people, and therefore increase your opportunities of employment. Even if you don't take up further study, get yourself out to lectures, debates and design events to meet people in the industry.

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  • 0

hst

I agree with your decision. Its also important that you chose the Masters Course wisely. i m myself currently looking for doing masters and of view that courses that give you help in the practical field or which empower you in terms of authority or knowledge are always a great thing to have along with your other credentials.

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  • -1

john kellett

Can you do an MA in Architectural Design RIBA without having passed at least an BA/BSc in architecture (RIBA Part 1)? Unless, of course, your BA in Interior Architecture was ARB/RIBA validated. Surely an MA in Interior Design would be more useful to you as an interior designer?

I am unsure whether the MA would be of 'commercial' value in the architectural profession without ARB/RIBA validation, since qualification as an architect in the UK requires RIBA parts 1,2 and 3.

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