Master of Architecture

The multicultural dimension of this English-taught master's degree prepares you extra for an international career as an architect or researcher. In this international program, you can for example be part of international research projects. Just like in the Dutch master's program, the program is composed of design and theoretical courses. In this master's program, you also choose studios and optional course units from a varied cross-campus offering.

The Master of Architecture program explores subjects through Design Driven Research (DDR), combining both academic and creative experimental approaches. You will be fully prepared for multicultural and international contexts.

Based on a highly interdisciplinary learning process of integrated research, students are expected to determine a critical stance on current issues with an emphasis on facilitating, making, and imagining, leading to relevant spatial interventions.

The program consists of theoretical courses in the field of History and Theory, Building Technology, and Professional Practice.

Design Studios

The design studio landscape is formed along 3 Engagements with each specific focus: Urban Cultures, Craftsmanship, and Mediating Tactics. Every master studio and elective is related to one of these engagements. A rich lecture and exhibition program will deepen and accompany each of these engagements.

From the academic year 2023-2024, students will choose an engagement as an option at the start of the Master's program. Within the option are studios and master's thesis. In addition, there are the theory courses and some electives that we recommend within the option, but that students will not be obliged to include within the chosen commitment.

Student Profile

• You have an interest in architecture, building technology, history, and theory to design and critically propose projects and interventions
• You have a high level of creativity and want to explore and apply it within the field of architecture
• You're developing a critical attitude and a personal position in both historical and actual debates in architecture
• You're good at isolating and identifying problems, conducting research, and delivering design-science solutions
• You want to work with international experts in a multicultural team setting

Graduates are trained to lead multidisciplinary teams of engineers, interior architects, landscape architects and artists. In addition to working as independent (self-employed) architects, graduates also work as professionals in government agencies and international design firms worldwide. Many graduates go onto roles as researchers, serving local or international governance bodies, NGO's or other institutes.

The courses are fully taught in English and also available in Dutch.

• Credits: 120 ECTS
• Degree Type: Master
• Specifications: Master of Science.

What sets us apart as a university?

A highly-ranked university

KU Leuven is among the best 100 universities in the world according to both Times Higher Education World Rankings and QS World University Rankings. All of KU Leuven’s disciplines proudly belong to the top 100 of their field. Furthermore, KU Leuven was ranked by Reuters as the most innovative university in Europe in 2016.

Research-based education

Education at KU Leuven is research-based, which means students will learn from the same professors who are performing the ground-breaking research you read about in the press. New insights are instantly integrated into classes and students are encouraged to perform their research. In our FabLab, students can use several high-tech machines to create whatever they want – all free of charge.

Affordable tuition fees

Higher education is highly valued in Belgium and therefore subsidised by the government. This allows KU Leuven to keep tuition fees relatively low, which gives you a price/quality ratio very few top-100 universities can match. We take pride in keeping our programs as accessible as possible to allow the brightest students from around the globe to join our courses.

International student life with respect for diversity

According to Times Higher Education, KU Leuven is in the top 50 of most international universities worldwide with staff and students from over 150 different nationalities. For all our international students, the Pangaea student center is their home away from home. Our university also strives for diversity and inclusion and wants to work together on a pact for more respect.

Learn more about why you should choose KU Leuven.

KU Leuven combines the best of both worlds by hosting both online and live info sessions. You choose how, where and when to get your information in your search for the right program

KU Leuven is among the best 100 universities in the world according to both Times Higher Education World Rankings and QS World University Rankings. All of KU Leuven’s disciplines proudly belong to the top 100 of their field. Furthermore, KU Leuven was ranked by Reuters as the most innovative university in Europe in 2016.