Redesigning the Bachelor Programme in Architecture
Abstract
We propose to design a future-proof Bachelors (BSc) programme in architecture that is rooted in the assets of the Department of Architecture (D-ARCH), tackles current societal and ecological challenges, reflects the changing profession of the architect, and has a distinct educational profile. It should provide a state-of-the-art education that is closely linked to practice and theory, as well as to ongoing research in the D–ARCH (including the digital, fabrication, history and theory, construction, etc.). It will be set in an inclusive learning environment, afford students the space to develop their own individual profiles according to their interests, and incorporate cross-disciplinary competences.
Recent external and self-evaluation efforts have made it clear that the curriculum needs to be optimised in its structure, content, and teaching methods. The new curriculum in architecture should have a clear distinction between the BSc and the MSc programmes – each with precisely defined skills and competences; well-structured educational paths; refined pedagogical formats; adequate and fair assessment of competencies and content; strategies to foster better distribution of the students’ workloads; and an improved teaching infrastructure to stimulate a better overall learning environment.