Master's programme in Architecture

This Master’s programme in Architecture corresponds entirely to the advanced level of the Degree programme in Architecture.

Programme outline

The programme consists of studio-based teaching (Studio Projects); Orientation courses; Seminar courses and a final independent Diploma Degree Project. Through the different stages of the programme an individual student completes six Studio Projects, each providing an opportunity to apply and develop skills in varied application areas; and tools to reflect on the learning process.

KTH aims to lead architectural education and research by combining artistic, design-led, technological and practical aspects of architecture and related knowledge areas. Our mission is to educate qualified consultants and leaders with a capacity to develop the built environment with respect to design, technology, economics, quality, aesthetics and long-term sustainability.

We also constitute an international study environment recognised for its individual coaching of students. This has resulted in a large number of international students at the advanced level of studies.

Overall aims of the programme

The overall aim of the programme is to ensure individual progression and individual deepening of knowledge, competence and judgement within architecture and related knowledge areas.

The programme fulfills the objectives of the local qualifications ordinance of the Royal Institute of Technology; it conforms to the European Architect Directive (2005/36/EG, article 46) and to the objectives of the Swedish Higher Education Ordinance (1993:100).

Career prospects

A majority of architects who graduate from KTH find a professional role in private architectural firms but many also work in the public sector. An important development in terms of future career prospects, is our additional mission to train students to assume a higher level of legal and financial responsibility in the various professional roles that relate to architecture and planning.

Addressing the challenges related to sustainable development, while at the same time developing urban landscapes and buildings that offer quality of life and rich business opportunities, calls for innovative architectural strategies, new technologies as well as economic and social policy initiatives. This opens up a great variety of workplaces in which our students may find their future careers.

Degree project

The Diploma Degree Project in Architecture comprises 30 credits and is a final assignment that the student chooses independently. The student formulates a programme and develops a project that addresses architectural issues that may be discussed in architectural terms. Through the Diploma Degree Project, a student is given the opportunity to show that s/he masters academic and professional skills of the architect. The Diploma Degree Project is an independent work that must be carried out within a specified time frame: one term.

Prerequisite to initiate the Diploma Degree Project:

All mandatory stages of the programme Master’s programme in Architecture must have been completed (90 credits).

A programme (Thesis Booklet) must be formulated, submitted and approved in accordance with the internal routines of the School of Architecture.

Diploma Degree Projects are presented at public examination days, currently twice a year. The works are assessed by an external jury, appointed for the examination. Based on the assessment of the jury and the main supervisor, the examiner sets a final grade. The Vice Dean of the School of Architecture is the examiner of Diploma Degree Projects.

General regulations and guidelines for the Diploma Degree Project relating to the Master’s programme in Architecture are listed in the internal regulation No. 12/07

Diploma Degree Projects are graded A-F.