MPhil in Architecture

University of Cambridge

The MPhil in Architecture is a ten-month full-time research degree offering the opportunity for independent research under the supervision of a departmental member of staff. Unless the candidate is part of a research group, the research is undertaken entirely by the candidate on their own, with regular supervisions on progress with their supervisor.

The MPhil degree by thesis introduces students to research skills and specialist knowledge. Its main aims are:

• to give students with relevant experience at a first-degree level the opportunity to carry out focussed research in the discipline under close supervision; and
• to give students the opportunity to acquire or develop skills and expertise relevant to their research interests.

The Martin Centre constitutes the research arm of the Department. It is one of the leading architectural research units in Britain, with over four decades of successful global research for government and industry. Research typically crosses traditional research boundaries: transportation and buildings, history and philosophy of architecture, digital media design and communication, risk assessment and mitigation in the built environment, and territorial conflict in divided cities. A rich environment of collaboration exists, with other Departments within the University, and with other institutions within the UK, Europe, the U.S, China, Africa and the Middle East.

Assessment

Thesis

The scheme of examination for the tenth-month full-time course of study in Architecture for the degree of Master of Philosophy shall consist of a thesis, of not less than 20,000 words and not more than 30,000 words in length, exclusive of tables, footnotes, bibliography, and appendices, on a subject approved by the Degree Committee for the Faculty of Architecture and History of Art. The examination shall include an oral examination on the thesis and on the general field of knowledge within which it falls.

The thesis is examined by two examiners and includes an oral examination which is usually held at the Faculty.

Practical assessment

Second Term Review

There will be a progress review at the end of the Lent Term carried out by the Director of Graduate Studies and the Supervisor. The purpose of this review is to ensure that candidates are on track to submit a thesis time. Candidates will be asked to bring to this meeting a one-page summary of the thesis, a table of contents, draft chapters and proposed programme for completion of the thesis.