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 approximately 250-300 students studying within our programmes on basic- and advanced level. In addition, we provide a PhD Programme in Architecture as well as a number of freestanding courses of 7.5 credits that span over several subject areas. Umeå School of Architecture is located in its own building at Umeå Arts Campus, which in turn is located at the riverbank of Umeälven with walking distance both to Umeå University's main campus and to Umeå city center.

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 location of the school in Northern Sweden, together with our international profile, provides 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 on basic- and advanced level is largely project-based and aims to integrate theoretical and scientific knowledge with process-oriented and artistic research. During the course of the semester, 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. 

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

Programmes

Read more about our programmes on basic- and advanced level as well as our PhD education here

Freestanding courses

Read about our free-standing courses in Architecture and urban design here

Exchange Studies

Considering coming as an Exchange student to UMA? Read more here!

Life at UMA

Read more about student life at UMA here