Education

Architecture itself is multidisciplinary and straddles the artistic and natural science fields, but it is also intertwined with social science subjects, for example when seeking solutions to challenges such as climate change and social inequality. As an architect you will need to be able to answer questions such as:

• Which groups are being represented when we build the future society? 
• How can architecture contribute to a sustainable and socially just society? 

Umeå School of Architecture at Umeå University has between 250-300 students studying on one of our programs. In addition to the programmes provided, we offer a number of Freestanding Courses of 7.5 credits that span over several subject areas. The school is located in its own building at Umeå Arts Campus, which in turn is located at the riverbank of Umeälven.

Studies emphasizing sustainability

Umeå School of Architecture (UMA) distinguishes itself by building on both the scientific, artistic and professional learning. For us, holistic, interdisciplinary and experimental approaches in the education are perceived decisive to address the contemporary global challenges and possibilities of architecture. In addition, the fact that UMA is situated in the regional context of Northern Sweden, together with the school's international profile, provide a dynamic vantage point to address global or structural issues while working firmly to engage with and learn from local communities.

While studying

The teaching within the two programmes is largely project-based and aims to integrate theoretical and scientific knowledge with process-oriented and artistic research. During the course of the semester, the project work is combined with courses in, among other things, architectural theory, architectural history, urban planning and technology. Many lectures are given by both internationally and locally active architects, artists and researchers. 

The students at UMA get to work with models in different scales, experiment with technical solutions and prototypes, full-scale constructions and architectural staging in a physical environment. Here they have access to advanced equipment and workshops for wood, metal, casting, 3D printers and laser cutters.

Programmes

Umeå School of Architecture (UMA) provides two educational programmes: A five-year Architecture Programme of 3...

Freestanding courses

The subject of architecture is interdisciplinary. To explore these connections, UMA offers short, freestanding...

Exchange Studies

We are happy that you are interested in spending your exchange period at Umeå School of Architecture. The info...

Life at UMA

Read more about student life at UMA here