This master's programme emphasizes hands-on, design-led learning in a small-group environment with close individual support and access to extensive technical facilities. The curriculum is project-based and modular, with design studios forming the core of study from the first through the final semester. In each of the first three semesters a central design project integrates different specialisations, exposing students to the broad range of tasks architects encounter in practice.
The course aims to develop students’ decision-making skills and a sense of professional responsibility at a time when the architect’s role is evolving. Teaching and research are brought into the design process, with particular attention to topics such as green building, ecology, economic and socio-cultural contexts, technological advances and digitalisation. Interdisciplinary instruction and a range of elective modules let students broaden or deepen their expertise to suit their professional interests.
Admissions / requirements
This two-year programme is organised across four semesters, with 30 credits per semester. During the first three semesters you focus on design-led learning: attending large, integrated design studios, selecting elective courses, completing a number of smaller project assignments, and joining field excursions. Over the course of the programme you will complete three large integrated design projects, ten elective courses (each worth 3 credits), and six small projects. The final semester is dedicated to researching and writing your Master’s thesis.
You build your own study plan by choosing the courses that match your interests at the start of each semester. Professors present the available design projects and electives in the first week, and new projects and elective options appear every semester. You also select a faculty mentor who advises you on which studios and electives best support your focus. The programme encourages interdisciplinary exchange—students frequently study alongside peers from Architectural Lighting Design, Interior Design, Product Design and Communication Design and may join selected classes in those areas.
Admission to the Master's degree in Architecture is decided through a selection process. To be eligible to enter that process you must hold a Bachelor's degree in architecture (from a national or international university) with an overall grade equivalent to the German "2.3" or better. The examinations committee may consider exceptions for applicants with related undergraduate degrees.
The selection procedure is based on a written application in which you should set out your motivation for undertaking the programme and your academic/professional goals. All applications must be submitted online via the university’s portal.
Note: If your undergraduate qualification is in a related field, the examinations committee will review your case and may grant an exception.
Winter Semester (International)
15 July 2026
Summer Semester (International)
15 January 2027
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
15 July 2026
Summer Semester (EU/EEA)
15 January 2027
Graduates are prepared for professional practice in architecture with strong design skills, project-based experience, and specialisation options in areas such as green architecture and architectural design research. The programme’s emphasis on interdisciplinary work, technical equipment, and integrated design projects equips students for roles in architectural offices, urban design practices, sustainability-focused consultancies, and related design fields.
The international and project-oriented elements, plus opportunities for cross-disciplinary collaboration and a double-degree option, also support careers in international firms, research and teaching, and positions that require intercultural competence. Depending on national licensing rules, graduates seeking to become registered architects may need to complete additional practical experience or examinations required by their country’s professional bodies.
Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg — Cottbus
Bauhaus-Universität Weimar — Weimar
Bauhaus-Universität Weimar — Weimar
Bauhaus-Universität Weimar — Weimar