About this program
Computational Methods in Architecture
This course addresses the need for creative professionals who are equipped with the IT skills, digital fabrication skills, simulation software skills, or the ability to design custom-software development tools to solve unique design problems. Our multidisciplinary approach will provide students with the knowledge and skills to discover innovative computational methods for use in the creative and design industries. In particular, we will look at form-finding using parametric and generative methods, preparing digital information for further rigorous analysis, and integrating the logic of digital fabrication into the early stages of design.
You will be taught by experts across the subjects of architecture, computer science and engineering, which will give you a distinctly interdisciplinary approach to looking at design.
The ethos of the course is based on the concept ofrigorous creativitywhere algorithmic thinking, systematic parametric design, analytic methods, creative intuition and tectonic sensibilities are integrated into a more innovative design outcome than traditional methods currently allow.
Admission requirements
Typically, you will need to have either:
- a 2:1 honours degree in architecture, computer science, engineering, interior design, landscape architecture, or urban design
- a university-recognised equivalent academic qualification
- or relevant professional experience evidenced by a reference.
English Language requirements
IELTS with an overall score of 6.5 with 5.5 in all subskills, or an accepted equivalent.
For more information about admission requirements, please check the university website.
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Program content
The modules shown are an example of the typical curriculum and will be reviewed prior to the 2022/23 academic year. The final modules will be published by September 2022.
Core modules for year one
- Introduction to 3D Modelling and Parametric Design
- Computational Form Finding
- Algorithmic Design Thinking
- Research Preparation
- Python for Computation
- Computational Design for Fabrication
- Dissertation: Computational Methods in Architecture
Scholarships & funding
For more information about scholarships, please visit the university website.
Tuition
- Tuition fees for UK: £10,200 per year.
- Tuition fees for International Students: £23,450 per year.
For more information about tuition fee, please visit the university website.
Qualification
What skills will I practise and develop?
The Learning Outcomes for this program describe what you will be able to do as a result of your study at Cardiff University. They will help you to understand what is expected of you.
Knowledge & Understanding:
On successful completion of the program you will be able to:
- Understand and critically evaluate theories of computing and computational methods.
- Understand and critically evaluate the role of computational methods in the design process.
- Understand and critically evaluate the role of computational methods in the digital fabrication process.
- Understand and critically evaluate the role of computational methods in the construction process.
Intellectual Skills:
On successful completion of the program you will be able to:
- Think algorithmically, systematically and creatively about integrating computational methods in the design process.
- Think algorithmically, systematically and creatively about integrating computational methods in the digital fabrication process.
- Think algorithmically, systematically and creatively about integrating computational methods in the construction process.
Professional Practical Skills:
On successful completion of the program you will be able to:
- Master practical methods in software development.
- Master use of software for computational methods in design, digital fabrication, and building construction.
- Effectively and creatively present abstract computational processes and their integration into a larger context.
Career paths
Whilst many of our graduates may choose to undertake a career within architecture or other built environment professions (e.g. engineering and construction, landscape, interior design), the program provides a large number of transferable skills which will be of benefit across a wide range of professions.
The knowledge and skills gained in computational methods such as 3D modelling, rendering, animation, parametric design, digital fabrication, and building information modelling (BIM) are highly desired by employers from various industries who are seeking experts with IT skills. Examples include: furniture designers, jewellery design firms, graphic design firms, computer game development firms, and even movie and theatre set design firms. These companies regularly need IT skills, digital fabrication skills, simulation software skills, or custom-software development tools to solve unique design problems.
The focus on independent, project based learning as well as the ability to solve complex problems individually and in groups is often welcomed by employers in that it provides graduates with skills in creative thinking, conceptual organisation, critical reflection and taking initiative.
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About this institute
Cardiff University
Cardiff University is among the top 25 universities in the UK and is ranked 154th in the world. Founded in 1883, Cardiff University combines a prestigious heritage with impressive modern facilities, on one of the most beautiful campuses in the UK....
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Cardiff University
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