This programme will be allowing architectural practitioners to develop professional and inter-personal skills, take increased leadership roles, engage in entrepreneurial activities, and develop their knowledge in International contemporary practice. The programme will be facilitated by the Design School and other Schools and Departments, including International Business School Suzhou (IBSS) and School of Humanities and Social Sciences.

Bringing a diverse selection of modules, the programme aims to provide a unique experience tailored for individual educational needs.

There will be no pre-requisite order on the optional modules. However, the candidates would be expected to complete the programme within 18 months.

The programme can also:

• provide a depth of knowledge and skills that are fundamental in contemporary practice in architecture;
• introduce participants to the complexity of running a practice within the realm of a fluctuating economy and in an international context;
• frame and evaluate the impact of environmental discourse through the lens of contemporary architectural practice;
• reflect on the economic factors that impact on architecture and architecture practice;
• explore the potential of digital tools in the contemporary practice of design and construction.

The programme will provide a range of teaching activities including lectures, seminars, coursework, discussion forums, individual work and independent group work, to suit the diverse topics covered. They will enable students to engage with real world scenarios.

MSc International Professional Practice in Architecture will enable a student to understand:

• the architectural profession and the responsibilities to clients, employers, and society;
• the economic, socio-political, and ethical influences of professional practice internationally;
• the fundamental skills in the delivery of projects;
• various construction processes and activities in the delivery of projects, with a focus on life cycle, health and safety, and project planning;
• the importance of business development and planning;
• organizational behaviours and people management theories;
• the principles of financial management in business;
• the designs that meet building user needs and comply with necessary legislation;
• sustainability rating systems and design methodologies on the basis of sustainability and life cycle.