Module Details

The information contained in this module specification was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change, either during the session because of unforeseen circumstances, or following review of the module at the end of the session. Queries about the module should be directed to the member of staff with responsibility for the module.
Title Thesis Design
Code ARCH522
Coordinator Ms J Muszbek
Architecture
J.Muszbek@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2021-22 Level 7 FHEQ Second Semester 45

Aims

The thesis design project provides the opportunity for final year students to demonstrate their ability to pursue an independent and coherent line of investigation leading to either an architectural or urban design study. In either event it is to be pursued with thoroughness, and supported by the thesis design report. Students will demonstrate their ability to systematically develop an architectural/urban design agenda; pursue a coherent line of investigation; and undertake a range of complex design-based investigations leading to a comprehensive visual, written and oral presentation. The work will be placed within a wider cultural context that identifies the key technical, environmental and social implications of their project.


Learning Outcomes

(LO1) By the end of the thesis design project, students will have demonstrated their ability to systematically develop an architectural/urban design project to a sophisticated level commensurate with undergraduate masters level in a professionally accredited programme.

(LO2) By the end of the thesis design project, students will have demonstrated the architectural/ urban relevance of their project, and appreciated its place in a wider cultural context.

(LO3) By the end of the thesis design project, students will have identified the key historical, social, legal and procurement implications of their project and addressed these issues in terms of planning and the detailed resolution of the building.

(LO4) By the end of the thesis design project, students will have identified the key environmental, structural and constructional implications of their project and addressed these issues in terms of planning and the detailed resolution of the building.

(S1) Communication (oral, written and visual) - Presentation skills – oral.

(S2) Critical thinking and problem solving - Creative thinking.


Syllabus

 

The Thesis Design Project theme is selected by students under the guidance of tutors. They must have their proposal approved, and approval will be subject to an assessment of the contents of their portfolio from MArch semesters 1, 2 and 3. The topic must be explored in depth, both in respect of the wider critical and cultural context historic in which it is placed including the legislative and economic framework, and any technical, environmental and social issues involved. It will consist of an architectural/urban design project pursued as a coherent line of investigation from briefing analysis through to comprehensive design drawings. The social implications of the project will be addressed as will the planning and detailed resolution of the building. A series of open presentations will be scheduled at which students will present their project by stages succinctly encompassing the principle briefing and design features of their design project so that their level of control over the process is clearly demonstrated.

The Thesis Design Project will be presented primarily in graphic form including appropriate drawings, montages, digital and physical models and defended orally before a critical jury (and in interview with one of our external examiners). It will also be prepared in conjunction with and supported by a critical report (see ARCH 524).


Teaching and Learning Strategies

Teaching Method 1 - Tutorial
Attendance Recorded: Yes

Teaching Method 2 - Seminars and critiques
Attendance Recorded: Yes


Teaching Schedule

  Lectures Seminars Tutorials Lab Practicals Fieldwork Placement Other TOTAL
Study Hours     15

    40

55
Timetable (if known)              
Private Study 395
TOTAL HOURS 450

Assessment

EXAM Duration Timing
(Semester)
% of
final
mark
Resit/resubmission
opportunity
Penalty for late
submission
Notes
             
CONTINUOUS Duration Timing
(Semester)
% of
final
mark
Resit/resubmission
opportunity
Penalty for late
submission
Notes
Assessment 1 There is a resit opportunity. Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission.  Pin up course work s    100       

Recommended Texts

Reading lists are managed at readinglists.liverpool.ac.uk. Click here to access the reading lists for this module.