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The Manchester School of Architecture was formed in 1996 with the merger of the architecture departments of the University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University. The MSA (not to be confused with the Manchester Society of Architects) is a joint school of the University of Manchester’s School of Environment and Development, and the Manchester Metropolitan University’s Faculty of Art and Design. This arrangememt allows MSA students to draw on the facilities and resources of both institutions. Researchers and lecturers, across a wide range of fields, represent numerous innovative avenues for creative collaboration, consultation and experiment. On graduating, the students' degree is awarded by both Universities.

Researchers from UMARC (University of Manchester Architectural Research Centre) input directly into the graduate teaching. UMARC is an internationally renowned, multidisciplinary research team based at the University of Manchester; its staff are researchers in a variety of affiliated fields of study, and offer an interdisciplinary context for architectural research at MSA. The launch of the new MA in Architecture and Urbanism is part of a continued strengthening of the research capabilities of the school.

Students getting ready for crit session in one of the studios

The school covers three main aspects of architectural education. An undergraduate course (B.A. hons.) which has exemption to the R.I.B.A. Part One exam. The Professional postgraduate course (B.Arch), this offers exemption to the R.I.B.A Part Two exams, and finally a range of postgraduate Masters and PhD courses.

A decade after its formation, MSA is set to grow into a leading international centre for research and teaching in architecture and urban studies.

• Manchester School of Architecture Website