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Architecture Universities/Portfolios

Hello,

I'm currently studying level 3's, all of which being: Construction, Business and IT and I did Art as a GCSE but did not do well. So I came here to ask if anybody could help me understand what Universities are looking for or what Architecture Students have sent out to be accepted in their chosen Universities, so that I could gain a little more understanding of what would be needed. I also would like to know how people choose what university is right for them, like any tips or advice in figurig it all out.

Reply 1

normaw

Volunteer Section Leader, Clearing and Applications Advisor

Original post

by chesclb

Architecture is a design-based degree so you might struggle with the course if you haven't done well in art. Do you do anything creative in your free time and do you think you will be able to produce a portfolio of creative work that is required by the majority of unis as part of the application process? It might be worthwhile taking a year to study a foundation art and design foundation diploma at a local college to develop your skills and portfolio before applying to uni:

https://www.thestudentroom.co.uk/showthread.php?t=5017684

The following thread is worth a read:

https://www.thestudentroom.co.uk/showthread.php?p=96239577

For examples of the portfolios submitted by previous applicants to Manchester, google 'Manchester uni architecture blogger'.

Reply 2

Uni of Notts

Official Rep

Original post

by chesclb

Hello,
I'm currently studying level 3's, all of which being: Construction, Business and IT and I did Art as a GCSE but did not do well. So I came here to ask if anybody could help me understand what Universities are looking for or what Architecture Students have sent out to be accepted in their chosen Universities, so that I could gain a little more understanding of what would be needed. I also would like to know how people choose what university is right for them, like any tips or advice in figurig it all out.

Hi there,

Great question! Normaw cover's it quite well already, it's down to if you think you have the artistic / creative skills to produce a portfolio as they are a requirement at quite a few Universities (Ourselves at Nottingham included).

While the guidance is very specific to us, our Portfolio Guidance does also include some sample portfolios that we have accepted in the past and might help give you an idea what kind of artistic skills Universities might be looking for. Naturally each University Admissions team and school will be looking at and for different things, so it's worth exploring what Universities you are interested in and seeing if they offer similar guidance.

If you do have any questions about Nottingham specifically, do get in touch with us here, in a DM, or on our website - But best of luck regardless of where you end up applying for!

All the best :smile: