Can I do an architecture degree without art A-Level? (year 12)
hi, my subjects are maths, further maths, physics and drama. i took graphic communications at gcse and do lots of art in my free time so i have experience working in portfolios. i’m also an amateur photographer - i know many universities don’t want specific subjects but will i be accepted without art when im up against students who are taking art and design a levels? please help 😊
Reply 1
Yes you can but check which universities don't require it. The fact that you still do art in your spare time and can put a portfolio together for your application is good. Start working to put that portfolio together now, if you did art gcse, go and speak with your old teacher and ask them to help you.
Reply 2
Original post
by Sooze2000Yes you can but check which universities don't require it. The fact that you still do art in your spare time and can put a portfolio together for your application is good. Start working to put that portfolio together now, if you did art gcse, go and speak with your old teacher and ask them to help you.
thank you so much!!
Reply 3
Original post
by dependent-pyramihi, my subjects are maths, further maths, physics and drama. i took graphic communications at gcse and do lots of art in my free time so i have experience working in portfolios. i’m also an amateur photographer - i know many universities don’t want specific subjects but will i be accepted without art when im up against students who are taking art and design a levels? please help 😊
Hi! Great to hear that you're considering architecture - we offer a BA Architecture course at Falmouth University and you don't have to have done any specific A Levels. The entry requirements are just 104 UCAS points across your chosen A Levels and at least a 4 in GCSE Maths 🙂
Reply 4
Here's a list of the places where you could study a degree in architecture without A Level Art:
Anglia Ruskin University
Arts University Bournemouth
Bath Spa University
Birmingham City University
University of Brighton
UWE Bristol
University of Cambridge (check individual colleges for requirements)
Cardiff Metropolitan University
Cardiff University
University for the Creative Arts
De Montfort University
University of Dundee (6 needed in a literate subject at GCSE)
The University of Edinburgh
Falmouth University
Glasgow School of Art (would need an A in either Maths or Physics and a 7 in GCSE English)
University of Gloucestershire
University of Greenwich
University of Hertfordshire (though they say they have a preference for creative subjects such as Art or Media)
University of Kent
Kingston University
University of Lancashire
Lancaster University
Leeds Beckett University
University of Leeds (A in Maths)
Liverpool John Moores University
University of Liverpool
London South Bank University
Manchester Metropolitan University
University of Manchester
Newcastle University
Northumbria University Newcastle
Norwich University of the Arts
Nottingham Trent University
University of Nottingham
Oxford Brookes University
University of Plymouth
University of Portsmouth
Queen's University Belfast
University of Reading
Regent's University London
Robert Gordon University Aberdeen
University of Roehampton
University of Salford
Sheffield Hallam University
University of Sheffield
University of Suffolk
University College London
Ulster University
University of Staffordshire
University of the Arts London
University of Westminster London
University of Wales Trinity Saint David
University of Wolverhampton
University of York
Anglia Ruskin University
Arts University Bournemouth
Bath Spa University
Birmingham City University
University of Brighton
UWE Bristol
University of Cambridge (check individual colleges for requirements)
Cardiff Metropolitan University
Cardiff University
University for the Creative Arts
De Montfort University
University of Dundee (6 needed in a literate subject at GCSE)
The University of Edinburgh
Falmouth University
Glasgow School of Art (would need an A in either Maths or Physics and a 7 in GCSE English)
University of Gloucestershire
University of Greenwich
University of Hertfordshire (though they say they have a preference for creative subjects such as Art or Media)
University of Kent
Kingston University
University of Lancashire
Lancaster University
Leeds Beckett University
University of Leeds (A in Maths)
Liverpool John Moores University
University of Liverpool
London South Bank University
Manchester Metropolitan University
University of Manchester
Newcastle University
Northumbria University Newcastle
Norwich University of the Arts
Nottingham Trent University
University of Nottingham
Oxford Brookes University
University of Plymouth
University of Portsmouth
Queen's University Belfast
University of Reading
Regent's University London
Robert Gordon University Aberdeen
University of Roehampton
University of Salford
Sheffield Hallam University
University of Sheffield
University of Suffolk
University College London
Ulster University
University of Staffordshire
University of the Arts London
University of Westminster London
University of Wales Trinity Saint David
University of Wolverhampton
University of York
Reply 5
Original post
by undisciplined-auHere's a list of the places where you could study a degree in architecture without A Level Art:
Anglia Ruskin University
Arts University Bournemouth
Bath Spa University
Birmingham City University
University of Brighton
UWE Bristol
University of Cambridge (check individual colleges for requirements)
Cardiff Metropolitan University
Cardiff University
University for the Creative Arts
De Montfort University
University of Dundee (6 needed in a literate subject at GCSE)
The University of Edinburgh
Falmouth University
Glasgow School of Art (would need an A in either Maths or Physics and a 7 in GCSE English)
University of Gloucestershire
University of Greenwich
University of Hertfordshire (though they say they have a preference for creative subjects such as Art or Media)
University of Kent
Kingston University
University of Lancashire
Lancaster University
Leeds Beckett University
University of Leeds (A in Maths)
Liverpool John Moores University
University of Liverpool
London South Bank University
Manchester Metropolitan University
University of Manchester
Newcastle University
Northumbria University Newcastle
Norwich University of the Arts
Nottingham Trent University
University of Nottingham
Oxford Brookes University
University of Plymouth
University of Portsmouth
Queen's University Belfast
University of Reading
Regent's University London
Robert Gordon University Aberdeen
University of Roehampton
University of Salford
Sheffield Hallam University
University of Sheffield
University of Suffolk
University College London
Ulster University
University of Staffordshire
University of the Arts London
University of Westminster London
University of Wales Trinity Saint David
University of Wolverhampton
University of York
Anglia Ruskin University
Arts University Bournemouth
Bath Spa University
Birmingham City University
University of Brighton
UWE Bristol
University of Cambridge (check individual colleges for requirements)
Cardiff Metropolitan University
Cardiff University
University for the Creative Arts
De Montfort University
University of Dundee (6 needed in a literate subject at GCSE)
The University of Edinburgh
Falmouth University
Glasgow School of Art (would need an A in either Maths or Physics and a 7 in GCSE English)
University of Gloucestershire
University of Greenwich
University of Hertfordshire (though they say they have a preference for creative subjects such as Art or Media)
University of Kent
Kingston University
University of Lancashire
Lancaster University
Leeds Beckett University
University of Leeds (A in Maths)
Liverpool John Moores University
University of Liverpool
London South Bank University
Manchester Metropolitan University
University of Manchester
Newcastle University
Northumbria University Newcastle
Norwich University of the Arts
Nottingham Trent University
University of Nottingham
Oxford Brookes University
University of Plymouth
University of Portsmouth
Queen's University Belfast
University of Reading
Regent's University London
Robert Gordon University Aberdeen
University of Roehampton
University of Salford
Sheffield Hallam University
University of Sheffield
University of Suffolk
University College London
Ulster University
University of Staffordshire
University of the Arts London
University of Westminster London
University of Wales Trinity Saint David
University of Wolverhampton
University of York
this is super helpful, thank you so much! i’ve had a look at a few of these but i didn’t realise how many there were
Reply 6
Original post
by dependent-pyramihi, my subjects are maths, further maths, physics and drama. i took graphic communications at gcse and do lots of art in my free time so i have experience working in portfolios. i’m also an amateur photographer - i know many universities don’t want specific subjects but will i be accepted without art when im up against students who are taking art and design a levels? please help 😊
Hi @dependent-pyrami
I think this will be completely okay, however I recommend checking any requirements specified by courses you apply to.
Universities should prioritise portfolios that show a strong sense of creativity. I think as you have said that you have experience in portfolios, I would say that focusing on building this up could be a great way to boost your application.
I would also look into potential foundation years or pre degree courses which might help you to gain extra skills ready for the architecture degree. Universities will like a broad range of skills so i think that your interest in art, photography along with skills gained throughout your maths, physics and drama A levels will really help.
Just ensure that you check different course requirements and I think it will be good. I wish you good luck in your application!
Jess (University of Southampton Student Ambassador)
Reply 7
Original post
by dependent-pyramihi, my subjects are maths, further maths, physics and drama. i took graphic communications at gcse and do lots of art in my free time so i have experience working in portfolios. i’m also an amateur photographer - i know many universities don’t want specific subjects but will i be accepted without art when im up against students who are taking art and design a levels? please help 😊
Hiya,
Sounds like you’ve got a nice few interests there!
For reference, the standard entry requirements for our BA (Hons) Architecture course based in Chelmsford are:
•
112-96 UCAS Tariff points. We accept A Levels, T Levels, BTECs, OCR, Access to HE and most other qualifications within the UCAS Tariff.
Our Admissions team are just a call or email away, so feel free to contact them anytime about entry requirements or more about the course:
📞 01245 686868
📧 [email protected]
Best of luck!
Many thanks,
Jemma
Original post
by dependent-pyramihi, my subjects are maths, further maths, physics and drama. i took graphic communications at gcse and do lots of art in my free time so i have experience working in portfolios. i’m also an amateur photographer - i know many universities don’t want specific subjects but will i be accepted without art when im up against students who are taking art and design a levels? please help 😊
Consider taking a year out before uni to complete an Art & Design Foundation Diploma (FAD) at a local college. FADs are looked upon favourably by unis:
https://www.thestudentroom.co.uk/showthread.php?t=5017684
Also look at the following threads:
A levels for architecture (but check current entry requirements)
Undergraduate Architecture Portfolio Advice including advice from an architecture lecturer
Reply 9
Original post
by dependent-pyramihi, my subjects are maths, further maths, physics and drama. i took graphic communications at gcse and do lots of art in my free time so i have experience working in portfolios. i’m also an amateur photographer - i know many universities don’t want specific subjects but will i be accepted without art when im up against students who are taking art and design a levels? please help 😊
Hi there, thank you for the question. It’s a really common concern and you’re absolutely right to be thinking about this early.
At London South Bank University, we do not require A-Level specifically for entry onto our Architecture degree. What matters most to us is that you meet the academic tariff requirement of 112 UCAS points and, just as importantly, that you submit a portfolio of design work.
From what you’ve described, your subject combination of Maths, Further Maths and Physics is actually very well suited to architecture, as these subjects demonstrate strong analytical, technical and problem solving skills that are highly valued on the course. Drama can also be beneficial, as communication and presentation skills are important for architects.
Your experience with Graphic Communications at GCSE, your ongoing art practice in your free time, and your photography are all excellent foundations for a portfolio. When reviewing applications, we are not simply comparing A-Level subject titles but we are also looking at creativity, design thinking, visual communication, experimentation, and potential. A well curated portfolio that shows how you think, develop ideas and use visual media can be just as strong as, and sometimes stronger than, formal A-Level work.
You are always welcome to explore LSBU and get a real feel for what student life is like here. We have a Southwark open day: Saturday 7th February 2026 where you can hear more about our courses and support. If you would prefer to see the campus in person you can book a tour https://www.lsbu.ac.uk/study/study-at-lsbu/open-days on a day that suits you and get a sense of the spaces you would be studying in. You can also chat to our current students https://www.lsbu.ac.uk/student-life/chat to hear honest experiences and get answers to any course questions you might have.
LSBU Admissions Ambassador
Reply 10
Original post
by dependent-pyramihi, my subjects are maths, further maths, physics and drama. i took graphic communications at gcse and do lots of art in my free time so i have experience working in portfolios. i’m also an amateur photographer - i know many universities don’t want specific subjects but will i be accepted without art when im up against students who are taking art and design a levels? please help 😊
Hi, neither of the Architecture degrees at LJMU require art A-Level, and with maths, further maths and physics you may be perfectly placed to receive an offer to study architecture with us.
Read about the degrees (2026 entry):
•
BA (Hons) Architecture BA (Hons) Architecture | Undergraduate course | Liverpool John Moores University
•
BA (Hons) Interior Architecture BA (Hons) Interior Architecture | Undergraduate course | Liverpool John Moores University
Both degrees will require you to upload a digital portfolio, which you have addressed in your post. We offer guidance on the application and portfolio process here: Liverpool School of Art and Creative Industries portfolio guidance | Liverpool John Moores University
I hope this helps - good luck in your search.
Dom, LJMU staff
Reply 11
Original post
by dependent-pyramihi, my subjects are maths, further maths, physics and drama. i took graphic communications at gcse and do lots of art in my free time so i have experience working in portfolios. i’m also an amateur photographer - i know many universities don’t want specific subjects but will i be accepted without art when im up against students who are taking art and design a levels? please help 😊
Hi @dependent-pyrami,
Some great interests there, very similar to mine I must say! This is great 🙂
We do run an architecture course, which you don't need specific art a-levels for which you can check out here. You can find the modules you'd study, portfolio advice for this course and much more. The page is full of great information that is worth reading through before applying.
Within the above course page link, you can also discover a day in the life of an architecture student by taking our guided tour and discovering what a typical day in the life of an architecture student at Preston would look like.
If you do have any questions, feel free to ask or get in touch with [email protected] for more course specific questions.
Hope this helps,
^Zac
Reply 12
Original post
by dependent-pyramihi, my subjects are maths, further maths, physics and drama. i took graphic communications at gcse and do lots of art in my free time so i have experience working in portfolios. i’m also an amateur photographer - i know many universities don’t want specific subjects but will i be accepted without art when im up against students who are taking art and design a levels? please help 😊
Hiya! It's superb to hear Architecture is where your interests lie, and you hobby for art sounds like it would help you make a fantastic portfolio ^-^
As a few other Universities have said, quite a few places do consider Architecture without A-Level Art. Here at The University of Nottingham we are the same, the entry requirements are AAA with no subject specifics. We do encourage an art subject as it helps when creating a high quality portfolio, but it sounds like you have the passion and skills needed already locked in!
Check out our Prospectus Page if you are interested in learning more, and you can always send us a message here or on our website with any questions.
Whatever you choose and wherever you go, best of luck! 😁
#UoN Staff Rep,
Dan
Reply 13
Original post
by dependent-pyramihi, my subjects are maths, further maths, physics and drama. i took graphic communications at gcse and do lots of art in my free time so i have experience working in portfolios. i’m also an amateur photographer - i know many universities don’t want specific subjects but will i be accepted without art when im up against students who are taking art and design a levels? please help 😊
Hope A-levels are going well! As mentioned by previous commentors there are universities which don't require art A-levels such as Lancaster (wink wink). Architecture BA Hons (K100) - Lancaster University.
For our course:
A-levels : AAA (no specific requirements)
GCSEs: No specific requirements
Portfolio: Yes [url= [https://www.lancaster.ac.uk/media/lancaster-university/content-assets/documents/lica/lancasterba(hons)architectureportfolioadvice.pdf]Portfolio guidance for BA Architecture ]
Hope this helps- happy to answer any other questions you might have
Jade
Student Ambassador Year 3 MBChB
(edited 2 weeks ago)
Reply 14
Original post
by dependent-pyramihi, my subjects are maths, further maths, physics and drama. i took graphic communications at gcse and do lots of art in my free time so i have experience working in portfolios. i’m also an amateur photographer - i know many universities don’t want specific subjects but will i be accepted without art when im up against students who are taking art and design a levels? please help 😊
Hi there!
Yes, De Montfort University will be happy to consider you! Architecture BA (Hons)
Also, we have an Open Day soon - on Saturday, 7th February. If you have some free time , please come over and we will show you the campus, the faculty and give you a taster session on what it's like to study architecture at DMU: Open Days - De Montfort University
Take care,
Ilya,
Cyber Security Student at DMU
Reply 15
Hi from Swansea!
Our BSc Architecture programme here at UWTSD (Swansea campus) is a diverse course that welcomes applicants from across a spectrum of backgrounds and interests.
A portfolio will be assessed on application but this can be in a blend with wide ranging media across the arts and sciences. Ryan, one our lead lecturers, suggests preparing a portfolio that highlights multiple skills. At UWTSD we don't have prescribed subjects for A level when considering Architecture with us. We would hope you are studying subjects you enjoy and are embracing/willing to celebrate.
Art A level is a 'nice to have' but never essential. A portfolio can involve your interests in photography and blend with drama and performance. One of our strongest graduates came to us with a detailed portfolio developed entirely in Minecraft, so our advice would be to explore and enjoy what makes you happy!
We'd love to welcome you to campus and have some very informal open evenings coming up. Open Days | University of Wales Trinity Saint David
Alternatively, if you wanted to chat to one of the lecturers simply fill in this form and we'll get that sorted for you. Contact us | University of Wales Trinity Saint David
Our BSc Architecture programme here at UWTSD (Swansea campus) is a diverse course that welcomes applicants from across a spectrum of backgrounds and interests.
A portfolio will be assessed on application but this can be in a blend with wide ranging media across the arts and sciences. Ryan, one our lead lecturers, suggests preparing a portfolio that highlights multiple skills. At UWTSD we don't have prescribed subjects for A level when considering Architecture with us. We would hope you are studying subjects you enjoy and are embracing/willing to celebrate.
Art A level is a 'nice to have' but never essential. A portfolio can involve your interests in photography and blend with drama and performance. One of our strongest graduates came to us with a detailed portfolio developed entirely in Minecraft, so our advice would be to explore and enjoy what makes you happy!
We'd love to welcome you to campus and have some very informal open evenings coming up. Open Days | University of Wales Trinity Saint David
Alternatively, if you wanted to chat to one of the lecturers simply fill in this form and we'll get that sorted for you. Contact us | University of Wales Trinity Saint David
Original post
by dependent-pyramihi, my subjects are maths, further maths, physics and drama. i took graphic communications at gcse and do lots of art in my free time so i have experience working in portfolios. i’m also an amateur photographer - i know many universities don’t want specific subjects but will i be accepted without art when im up against students who are taking art and design a levels? please help 😊
Hi there! You don’t need an architecture-specific degree to apply for BA (Hons) Architecture at AUB. There’s plenty of info about it on our portfolio guidelines page, but your experience with graphic communication, drama and photography would all be great to showcase – it’s your creative passions that matter the most.
Here’s a great story from one of our Architecture students Anisha, who didn’t come from an architecture or design background but has since immersed herself in practical workshops and creating her own models: https://aub.ac.uk/latest/anisha-sanmugathasan-diving-into-second-year-architecture-aub
Plus, we have a selection of Architecture course videos which may give you a better idea about the course from students directly: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBqX5Ei3u_3AsvUoUzM5eV676yIb1MzOH&si=fWtQLhUbzlkIYLA5
Do let us know if you have any specific questions that we’d be happy to answer! 🙂
– Ben
Reply 17
Hi all,
Thought I’d add some info for anyone considering Architecture at Liverpool John Moores University — especially if you’re still figuring out if it’s the right course for you.
Entry requirements:
Course highlights:
More info about the course here: https://www.ljmu.ac.uk/study/courses/undergraduates/2026/30132-architecture-ba-hons
See examples of student work and get a feel for the studio culture on our Instagram page @architecture_lsad
Hope this helps anyone considering Architecture!
Megan (LJMU Rep)
Thought I’d add some info for anyone considering Architecture at Liverpool John Moores University — especially if you’re still figuring out if it’s the right course for you.
Entry requirements:
•
3 A-levels at ABB in any subject.
•
A digital portfolio is required. Guidance on what to include can be found here: https://www.ljmu.ac.uk/applicant-login/portfolios
Course highlights:
•
Ranked 13th in the UK (The Times UK University Rankings 2025)
•
96% of students found the course intellectually stimulating (National Student Survey 2025)
•
Opportunities for study abroad
•
Teaching in the RIBA award-winning John Lennon Art and Design Building
•
European and UK study trips included
•
Exemption from RIBA Part 1 exams on graduation
•
Direct involvement in live artistic projects in the city
See examples of student work and get a feel for the studio culture on our Instagram page @architecture_lsad
Hope this helps anyone considering Architecture!
Megan (LJMU Rep)
Quick Reply
Related discussions
- What should my subjects selection be?
- The chance for Cambridge Architecture Interview
- architecture without art a-level?
- Architecture/Design/Art students please help!
- Torn between Urban Planning Vs. Architecture
- Torn between urbanism vs architecture
- balancing 4 a levels
- Do You have to take physics in a level to study engineering or architecture in uni?
- a level + uni advice
- Has someone done Architecture at uni without maths or physics
- What A-levels will i need to study Architecture in uni?
- Stressing to pick A levels
- What should I do for my Alevels?
- Architecture degree without a creative subject
- are my uni choices too aspirational? (for architecture)
- Architecture application for UCAS 2025
- Unsure about uni course
- Architecture University
- Just changed what I want to do for uni entirely - is it too late??
- Benefits/Downsides to Architectural and Interdisciplinary Studies (UCL)i
Latest
Trending
Last reply 3 months ago
Architecture at the University of York [UPDATE]Last reply 7 months ago
UWE Bristol VS Oxford Brookes for Urban/Spatial Planning?Last reply 7 months ago
Which university is better when we compare LSBU with UELLast reply 7 months ago
Is there chance i get into the bartlett with these?Last reply 8 months ago
Cardiff, Edinburgh, Sheffield or Manchester for architecture 2025?Last reply 8 months ago
Would i get accepted into the universities i chose with these grades?Last reply 8 months ago
Worth self-funding for a second degree (Architecture)/going back to uni at 25?Last reply 8 months ago
Is it realistic to study architecture in london and have a part time job??Last reply 9 months ago
UCL, UAL or Liverpool for architecture 2025Last reply 9 months ago
UCL Bartlett vs UAL CSM for Architecture – Which One?Articles for you
How The Student Room is moderated
To keep The Student Room safe for everyone, we moderate posts that are added to the site.
