An undergraduate 'studio' is a smaller study group taken by Year 2 and 3 students of the Architecture BA (Hons) course, Architecture (including foundation year) BA (Hons) course or Architecture (Top-Up) BA (Hons) course at the University's School of Art, Architecture and Design. A postgraduate 'unit' is a smaller study group taken by students of the Architecture RIBA 2 – MArch course or Architect Apprenticeship (Level 7) (RIBA Part 2 and Part 3). Each studio or unit is led by a member of academic staff, often in association with a professional practitioner or organisation. At the start of the year, the leaders of each studio and unit present their studio's themes, position and approach to all students during a market day. Students then choose their preferred studio from the wide range of issues, methods of working and types of projects available.
The studio approach brings many benefits including smaller and more focused teaching groups, a joined-up approach to modules, experience of professional practice, collaboration and teamwork, opportunities to exhibit and even an element of healthy competition. Academic staff work hard every year to make sure that they are appealing, engaging, challenging and relevant.
