Studying Architecture but not the strongest at Mathematics

3

I want to go back to university to study Architecture. However Mathematics is not my strongest suit (got a B in GCSE) and I didn’t do it for A Level. Would this put my back and affect me if I were to study it? Also note it’s been years since I got my Maths GCSE…

I am more interested in the creative and design element. I have been drawing from a very young age and I achieved a very high grade in Fine Art (A*). I regularly draw architectural buildings in pencil, pen/fineliners. I have filled multiple sketchbooks full of my architectural artwork. I also regularly go to art galleries and I have received compliments on my highly detailed and realistic art from colleagues at my workplace, family, friends, curators in art galleries and even strangers.

However I know being good at drawing is only ticking one box. Will appreciate your input.

Thanks.

Reply 1

PQ

Clearing and Applications Advisor

21

Have a look at the sticky by @normaw at the top of architecture, building and planning

Maths isn’t required for the vast majority of architecture degrees. It’s a design based career and degree. It isn’t engineering.

What level 3 (A level equivalent) qualifications do you have/are you studying towards?

Reply 2

Shenlia

OP

3

Thanks for the response.
I studied Fine Art, Geography, Law (achieved grades A*BB).

Will my grades and subject choices prevent me from getting into the University of Liverpool and the University of Manchester which both ask for AAA even if I have a very strong portfolio?

I checked if I would be able to get a contextual offer and I don’t think I would be eligible sadly!

Reply 3

PQ

Clearing and Applications Advisor

21

Original post

by Shenlia

Thanks for the response.
I studied Fine Art, Geography, Law (achieved grades A*BB).

Will my grades and subject choices prevent me from getting into the University of Liverpool and the University of Manchester which both ask for AAA even if I have a very strong portfolio?

I checked if I would be able to get a contextual offer and I don’t think I would be eligible sadly!

It's worth contacting them directly to ask whether they'll consider you with A*BB achieved grades (unless you've already applied).

If you haven't already then it's worth reading the RIBA reviews https://www.architecture.com/education-cpd-and-careers/riba-validation/riba-validated-schools-uk

Those are both huge courses with >100 students per year. Is that the sort of environment you're looking for?

Reply 4

rhiannonw90

1

Hi! I finished my Undergrad Architecture degree in 2023, now applying for my Masters. I found that I didn't need maths at all! I did Art, Geography and Physics (as well as an EPQ in Architecture) and I ended up with BACA* respectively. I ended up going to Newcastle Uni having had offers from Manchester, Newcastle and Oxford Brookes and didn't use maths beyond the odd bit of trigonometry/calculator work!

Reply 5

Shenlia

OP

3

Original post

by rhiannonw90

Hi! I finished my Undergrad Architecture degree in 2023, now applying for my Masters. I found that I didn't need maths at all! I did Art, Geography and Physics (as well as an EPQ in Architecture) and I ended up with BACA* respectively. I ended up going to Newcastle Uni having had offers from Manchester, Newcastle and Oxford Brookes and didn't use maths beyond the odd bit of trigonometry/calculator work!

Thanks for your input. I'm still contemplating my choices.

I would love to do Architecture due to the art and design element. I have never been confident in anything but my art skills haha.

But the waking realisation I can't get the tuition fee covered (only maintenance loan) would mean I have to use literally all my savings from years of working. That really hurts. Plus qualifying in Architecture is a long process, I need a minimum 7 years to qualify and I would be in my early 30s then. Yet, it's my passion and I would be surrounded with those with similar love for drawing. But is it worth making that huge sacrifice of self-funding?

Whereas Nursing I would get Student Finance funding for tuition, maintenance loan and a NHS Bursary. But it's not using my love for drawing at all...

Sometimes decisions is hard isn't it?

(edited 9 months ago)

Studying Architecture but not the strongest at Mathematics

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