Architecture (not currently chamber eligible), Master of Arts

If you want to study architecture but don't necessarily need the professional title "Architect" then the Master's distance learning program in Architecture* at IU International University (IU) is perfect for you. Here you will learn in a digital format how to design the buildings of tomorrow.

The program is currently not chamber-eligible: you acquire professional competencies (job-qualifying), but you are not allowed to hold the protected professional title of Architect (professionally qualifying). To obtain this professional title in Germany, you need to be listed in an Architects' Chamber. In general, you can apply for chamber admission only after completing a four- or five-year architectural degree with at least two years of relevant professional experience. Some state chambers require additional qualifications. The respective Architects' Chamber in each federal state decides on the entry into the list. Many chambers currently state that they do not accept applicants who have completed their Bachelor's in Architecture through distance learning. Presence in-class teaching is still generally considered essential. Additionally, supplementing with an accredited Master's program currently cannot guarantee admission to an Architects' Chamber.

Nevertheless, the IU Architecture degree* has much to offer. It is currently the only Bachelor's distance learning program in Architecture* - recognized by the state, accredited, and practice-oriented. We collaborate with internationally successful experts in the architecture industry who support you in your professional development.

Although the Architects' Chamber currently does not allow admission and has reservations about competency development through online teaching: The state accreditation indicates that our study format is just as suitable for acquiring the necessary competencies. We focus on innovative teaching: Students learn using physical models, create everything from hand sketches to digital images, and interact with each other and with the male and female lecturers - but all online.

The lengthy, minimum 6-year training as an architect is just one path into the industry. With IU's Architecture* study, many career opportunities are available to you: Whether in an office or in public service, you can choose and practice your own focus as a Designer, Developer of construction details, or participant in construction projects - even without chamber admission. If this aligns with your personal goals, our distance learning program is right for you.

These are the requirements for the Master's in Architecture*

With your Master's in Architecture*, you could work as a project team member in an architectural firm, as a civil service employee, or as a member of the planning department.

You can be admitted to the part-time Master's program in Architecture* at IU International University if you have obtained a first degree in Architecture* from a state-recognized or state university, such as a Bachelor's or Master's degree. The grade of your degree should be at least "Satisfactory."

In addition, you can have extensive prior learning recognized to shorten your study time in distance learning and save on study fees. Recognitions may include achievements from previous Master's programs or comprehensive professional experience in Architecture*. It is best to submit your recognition request along with your application.

These are the study contents in online study Architecture*

This master's program at IU consists of approximately 12 modules, which you will complete over 4 semesters of regular study time. Each module is worth 5-10 credit points (ECTS) and concludes with an examination performance such as a term paper or an exam. In total, you will earn 120 credit points from module to module and from semester to semester.

The typical course structure for full-time studies in Architecture* looks as follows:

• Semester 1: Research Methods, Project: Conceptual-experimental Design, Trends and Discourses of Contemporary Architecture, Human-Centered Design, Project: Human-Centered Design
• Semester 2: Project: Constructive Design, Project: Building in Existing Structures, Computer-aided Design, Project: Computer-generated Design
• Semester 3: Project: Public Buildings, Elective Module A, Elective Module B
• Semester 4: Master's Thesis

For your specialization, you can choose one of these modules: Sustainable Construction, Innovative Urban Development Strategies, Monument Conservation and Building Research, Integrated Planning.

The flexibility of the standard study duration in distance learning Architecture*

At IU International University, you can choose one of 3 study models in the part-time distance learning program:

• In the full-time program, the standard study duration is 4 semesters or 24 months. You can extend the standard study duration by up to 2 semesters or 12 months at no extra cost. The full-time program in Architecture* is particularly suitable for those who are not working or only work a few hours a week.
• In Part-time Study I, the standard study duration is 6 semesters or 36 months. You can extend the standard study duration by up to 2 semesters or 12 months at no extra cost. Part-time Study I is suitable, for example, if you work part-time alongside your studies.
• In Part-time Study II, the standard study duration is 8 semesters or 48 months. You can extend the standard study duration by up to 2 semesters or 12 months at no extra cost. Part-time Study II is particularly suitable if you are heavily involved in your professional career alongside your distance learning.

By the way, you can also take a semester break during your studies at no extra cost.

How does online study at IU work?

A study program that adapts to your life: In online studies at IU, you learn flexibly and digitally when and where you want to learn.

In the Master's Distance Learning program in Architecture* at IU International University, there is no mandatory presence - you learn continuously from home, in the library of your choice, or wherever you can best learn.

You can choose when to take your modules and lectures. This way, you can usually create your study plan and semester schedule flexibly by yourself.

Central to IU's distance learning program are your interactive study scripts. You will receive the scripts in printed form as well as digitally as PDFs and for tablets. Through the smart IU Learn app, you will have access to scripts for your Architecture* studies as well as scripts from all other distance learning programs at IU.

Through myCampus, the online campus of IU, you also have access to additional materials, such as videos. You can interact with your lecturers and fellow students, for example, in virtual live formats, through interactive lectures.

And exams? You can choose to take them as online exams. You can take an online exam at any time, 24/7, once you feel adequately prepared for the material. Alternatively, you can take the exam at one of the numerous exam centers of IU throughout Germany.

* currently not Chamber of Commerce certified