The Student Room Group

Is it possible to do architecture without an art Alevel?

I'm about to go into year 12. I WOULD do art if i could, however i can't since i haven't done it for my GCSEs. I know the chances would be really slim since the other applicants have done alevel art, but theoretically, could I get in without an alevel in art?
Original post by pawelski
I'm about to go into year 12. I WOULD do art if i could, however i can't since i haven't done it for my GCSEs. I know the chances would be really slim since the other applicants have done alevel art, but theoretically, could I get in without an alevel in art?


Check the architecture courses on unis websites to see what subjects they specify.
If they dont specify art then you dont need it.
Reply 2
Original post by Emma:-)
Check the architecture courses on unis websites to see what subjects they specify.
If they dont specify art then you dont need it.

Well, talking about UCL right now. They don't necessarily require alevel art, but they do state that they require a portfolio and a preferred subject, being maths and physics. besides that, my bigger point isn't about the actual requirements but about competing with applicants that do take art along side maths and physics. Do you reckon, if I put in the effort, be recognized amongst the UCL applicants and hopefully make it in?
Original post by pawelski
Well, talking about UCL right now. They don't necessarily require alevel art, but they do state that they require a portfolio and a preferred subject, being maths and physics. besides that, my bigger point isn't about the actual requirements but about competing with applicants that do take art along side maths and physics. Do you reckon, if I put in the effort, be recognized amongst the UCL applicants and hopefully make it in?


Yeah if you put in the effort, then you should get in
Original post by pawelski
Well, talking about UCL right now. They don't necessarily require alevel art, but they do state that they require a portfolio and a preferred subject, being maths and physics. besides that, my bigger point isn't about the actual requirements but about competing with applicants that do take art along side maths and physics. Do you reckon, if I put in the effort, be recognized amongst the UCL applicants and hopefully make it in?


UCL doesn't prefer maths and physics. It states that two A levels must be from UCL's preferred A levels list - it's a very long list. It is possible to do an architecture degree without art, but a creative A level will help you prepare a portfolio and when you are on the course (50% of the degree is design based). Do you have any other options such as DT, graphic design, 3D design or textiles? Just to note that UCL is one of the most competitve courses for architecture and also a very creative course. What other unis are you considering?

The majority of unis don't specify any subjects - have a look at the following thread:

https://www.thestudentroom.co.uk/showthread.php?t=7361710

Another option is to consider taking a year after A levels to complete an Art and Design foundation diploma (FAD), which is good prep for an architecture course.

https://www.thestudentroom.co.uk/showthread.php?t=5017684
(edited 3 months ago)

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