COURSE CURRICULUM

The RIBA Part 1 Validated Architecture course at Falmouth University is a three-year program fostering creative, socially responsible architects through practical and theoretical training. In the first year, students explore architectural language and building anatomy through small-scale projects in modules like Habitation 1, focusing on people, place, and sustainable design, and Environment 1, emphasizing user-centered structures. Community 1 addresses public spaces, while Practice 1 introduces professional contexts and collaborative design, enhancing drawing, making, and digital skills alongside architectural history and ethics. The second year advances technical and conceptual abilities through larger projects. Habitation 2 tackles social sustainability in housing, Environment 2 deepens material and technical knowledge, and Community 2 develops complex urban designs. Practice 2 explores regulatory frameworks and ethical practice, with opportunities for work placements or campus-based research. In the third year, students undertake two major design projects: Synthesis 1 encourages experimental, sensory-focused design, while Synthesis 2 consolidates skills in a large-scale urban project. The Dissertation module offers a choice between a 5,000-word written submission or a 2,000-word critical essay with a practical portfolio, both supported by research. Practice 3 prepares students for careers with a professional portfolio, written report, and optional mentoring. Set in an inclusive studio environment, the course equips graduates with creative, technical, and communication skills, emphasizing sustainability, diversity, and ethical practice, preparing them for architecture or related industries while leveraging Falmouth’s inspiring setting to create impactful designs.