Architecture
Master of Arts
Social, economic and ecological change present planners with new challenges. How can projects be developed in a community-based way? How can resources be used efficiently and sustainably in the planning process? What options can help reconcile the ever-increasing diversity of actors?In our Master's programme you will have the space and time to pursue these, other and your own questions about contemporary and socially effective architecture. We approach the study of architecture as a holistic professional and personal education. Small groups with a maximum of 25 students provide plenty of room for development. Our studio house offers a pleasant atmosphere for learning and working, while proximity to the lecturers facilitates intensive support.
We offer you:
- Your own workstation in our studio house
- Small group learning
- Intensive support
- Project-based work
- Work in the "laboratory of reality" through temporary interventions
- A state-recognised degree
The course starts in September each year. Observing classes is possible at any time with prior notification.
Course Contents and Curriculum
Architecture and Project-Based Studies
The architectural project-based studies are the heart of the Master's programme. They bring together content learned in all subject areas in three hands-on projects (1st - 3rd semester). Students work individually or as part of a team on their own projects, which relate to the semester’s theme and the subject areas they are working on. This work takes aspects of both process-related and object-related planning into account. The first semester aims at a personal and objective assessment of what role architecture can play in society and how each individual sees his/her own role in this process. In the second semester, the connection between architecture and resources is the focus, and in the third semester the relationship between architecture and the city is examined. Regular colloquia are a central component of the course. They offer students the opportunity to present their current projects to professors, fellow students and guests, open them for discussion, and develop them further within the group.
Project Management and Project Development
Integrated into the design-oriented project studies are the fundamentals and methodology of project management and community-based project development. They expand the architect's planning repertoire with essential tools and formats that are becoming increasingly important in practice: process competence; understanding social and legal constellations; insight into the role of the planner as initiator, designer and moderator; dealing with project structuring, and quality assurance.
Temporary Interventions: Space and Time
A further component of the Master's programme focuses on experimental and phenomenological work in public space through the creation of temporary interventions. These offer students the opportunity to work on concrete problems in spatial design on a 1:1 scale and to experience the entire lifecycle of a project from beginning (brainstorming) to end (dismantling, documentation). In addition, formats and methods that can extend and enrich classical planning tools are researched and experimented with.
Our courses are taught exclusively in German.
Video about the Degree Programme
Watch the video on our architecture programme!
Structure and Degree
Mode of Study:
• Project-based work that consolidates learned content, allowing students to grasp holistic interrelations
• Topics from and lecturers with professional experience in the field
• Work in the “laboratory of reality” through temporary interventions
• Intensive support in small groups
• Studio work in university facilities
• Projects at the end of each semester
Course Duration:
The standard period of study is 4 semesters (120 ECTS).
Master’s Project:
The degree programme concludes with the Master's project, which is an independent work based on either design planning or research. It is divided into phases, presented and discussed in intermediate colloquia, and reviewed in the final colloquium.
Degree:
Upon successful completion of the programme, the academic title Master of Arts (M.A.) is awarded. The degree is state-recognised. The programme was accredited by the AHPGS Freiburg in February 2022 for a period of 5 years.
Admission Requirements
For admission to the Master’s programme at Alanus University, the following requirements must be fulfilled:
• Proof of a first university degree from an architecture programme of at least 6-semester duration
• Foreign applicants must provide proof of sufficient written and spoken German language skills by submitting a recognised language certificate (e.g. TestDaF 4, DSH 2). All courses are held in the language of instruction. The International Office will inform you of the required level.
Applying to the Programme
You can apply for admission to the programme at any time. It starts in the Autumn Semester. Please submit all of your completed application documents first. We will then invite you for an admission interview.
Guidance and Class Observation:
We are available at any time for a non-binding guidance counselling appointment. Please schedule an appointment ahead of time via email.
Class observation days are possible at any time by prior contact with the department secretary. Observation gives prospective students the opportunity to become familiar with the architecture programme in seminars and lectures as well as talk to lecturers and students.
Application:
International degree-seeking students are asked to contact the General Student Advisory Service for the admission procedure. Please contact the person at this office who is responsible for the degree programme you are interested in.
Please include the following documents in your application:
- Handwritten tabular CV with passport photo
- A portfolio of selected work samples from studies and, if applicable, from practical experience (max. 5 projects, DIN A4)
- Letter of Motivation (max. one DIN A4 page) on the question “What kind of society do I want to live in and how will I contribute to it as an architect?”
- Officially certified copies of documents/certificates qualifying you for admission (officially certified and stamped German translation of foreign certificates)
- Copy of official ID card
- Certificate of registration from a German health insurance provider (a copy of the insurance card is not sufficient)
- Foreign applicants require proof of sufficient German language skills (TestDaF 4, DSH 2 or an equivalent certificate)
Interview:
The admission interview centres on the Letter of Motivation and work samples submitted and, if applicable, previous work experience.
Tuition Fees and Funding
Studying at Alanus University is an investment in your future. In particular, you invest time in the formation of your personality and prepare yourself intensively for your future career. We offer you the ideal framework to achieve with a special focus on holistic education.
If you have any specific questions about financing your studies, more information is available here.
Study for a Day: Observation
Study for a Day: Participate in the architecture programme for a day and gain a first-hand impression of student life “at Alanus”. Talk with students and lecturers and form your own opinion. Try the cafeteria food, explore the library – we look forward to welcoming you!
Upcoming observation days are listed here. Please use the proper contact form to sign up directly for observation.