Automatic translation by Google Translate.We cannot guarantee that it is accurate.

Skoða vefinn á Íslensku

B.Arch in Architecture

Decor overlay

B.Arch–a degree in architecture prepares students to participate in shaping society with aesthetics, equality, sustainability, and critical thinking as guiding principles.

  • Open for applications

    January 6th, 2025

  • Application deadline

    April 8th, 2025

  • Applications answered

    May / June 2025

  • Registration fee

    More information

  • Name of programme

    B.Arch in Architecture

  • Name of degree

    B.Arch

  • Units

    180 ETC

  • Duration of study

    6 semesters – 3 years

Information is provided in Icelandic for study programs that have Icelandic as the primary language of instruction.

About the programme

B.Arch-studying architecture is a 180-unit course for those who want to take part in the shaping of society with aesthetics, equality, sustainability and critical thinking as a guiding principle. Students develop their own artistic sensitivity, personal approach and technical competence, whether in speech, writing or space. They learn to take an active part in the shaping of what exists, whether in a city or in nature, and working with others is an important part of that, as architecture is by its very nature teamwork. They learn to be active and critical members of society who are aware of the ethical and environmental consequences of their actions and are given tools in their hands to change for the better through architecture. 

Study structure

The program is three years divided into two fifteen-week semesters for 180 ECTS. The program consists of workshops (114 ECTS), academic courses (56 ECTS) and technical courses (10 ECTS).  

  • The first year of study focuses on experiments with space and form. The basic concepts and working methods of architecture are introduced with an emphasis on hand drawing and modeling.  
  • The second academic year focuses on the city. Students learn to analyze a neighborhood and design a building in the urban landscape at the same time as they learn basic computer programs. 
  • The third year of study focuses on the countryside and interaction with nature and encourages the transformation of existing buildings. Students write a final thesis in the fall semester, while the spring semester is devoted to the final project. 

After graduation

After completing three years of study, students graduate with a B.Arch degree in architecture, which enables them to apply for postgraduate studies in the field and subsequently gain full professional qualifications as architects. A B.Arch degree in architecture is useful for a variety of projects and jobs related to the environment, society and other creative disciplines.

Application and admission process

  • The electronic application is filled out in the application portal.
  • Note: you must fill in all fields marked with a star and attach the requested documents, pay the application fee and confirm the application.
  • A certified copy of the diploma (a photocopy is not valid) with a stamp from the relevant school and a scanned curriculum vitae and attached to the electronic application.
  • If supporting documents are not in order, the applicant will receive a mail and the option to correct the application.
  • The applicant receives confirmation that the electronic application is valid.

Open for applications

January 6th, 2025

Application deadline

April 8th, 2025

Applications answered

May / June 2025

Price list

More information

Special instructions for the Department of Architecture

  • 1. Folder/Portfolio

    Required

    Applicants must collect samples of their work in a folder/portfolio in physical form.

    The works should reflect the student's personal vision, shed light on his main topics of interest, and from them it should be possible to read what talent the applicant has for original creation and presentation of his ideas.

    It is not necessary that all the works are completed or that they are implemented to the utmost, on the contrary, it is important that there are also any kind of sketches, drawings, photographs or text. All works in the folder/portfolio must be the author's work of the applicant, if a work has been done in group work or collaboration, it is necessary to state this.

    The applicant himself has to assess what fits within the portfolio, but it is important that it reflects his abilities, skills and vision of the profession through creative work. Content outside the folder, such as links or references to other documents, is considered additional content and is not guaranteed to be viewed.

    • Please note that only a physical portfolio can be submitted when applying for a BArch architecture program at the Iceland Academy of the Arts.
    • The deadline for submitting a material folder/portfolio is April 8, 2025.
    • A physical resume must be submitted to the LHÍ office in Stakkahlíð 1.
    • Please note that it is necessary to indicate in the starred field in the application portal that a material folder/portfolio will be returned.
    • If you are applying to more study programs or departments, you must submit an application and a portfolio for each study program/department.

    NOTE:
    The folder/portfolio must be anonymous, but the applicant must mark it with a social security number and full name.
    Note that the admissions process is anonymous, but we ask that you carefully read the instructions below regarding portfolio labeling.

    Labeling the folder
    A sheet clearly stating your full name and social security number must be attached to the physical folder. This paper will be taken away before the admissions committee receives the portfolio.

    If a folder/portfolio is posted
    If the folder/portfolio is sent by post, the postmark must be dated at the latest April 8, 2025.
    The folder/portfolio should be sent by trackable mail and the envelope should be marked with both the sender and the application number.

    Address of the Department of Architecture
    Iceland University of the Arts, Faculty of Architecture
    Stakkahlíð 1, 105 Reykjavík

  • 2. Cover letter

    Required

    Applicants explain the reason for applying to the relevant study program.

  • 3. Admission process

    An admissions committee is appointed for each program.
    The committee is made up of two to three experts in the relevant field, who choose from among the applicants.
    The admission process is as follows:
    1. Applications evaluated by the admissions committee. Applicants who pass the admissions committee's assessment are included in a sample group and are invited to an interview.
    2. Interview. The applicant's interest in the prospective study, his attitude and attitude towards the profession are examined
    NOTE:
    • The admissions committee is authorized to request a special project from the applicant if it is deemed necessary.
    • All applicants will be sent an electronic response to applications in May/June.
    • Applicants who have received a school placement must pay a confirmation fee of ISK 75.000, which is sent to their home bank.
    • The results of the admissions committees are final and it is not obligatory to give a detailed explanation for the refusal of school accommodation.
  • 4. Admission requirements

    Required

    It is assumed that the applicants have completed a matriculation exam or similar studies.

  • 5. Exemptions due to intake

    The University of the Arts is authorized to grant admission to the school to those applicants who possess knowledge and experience that is considered adequate preparation for a bachelor's degree program at the school.

    The applicant must have completed no less than 105 credits from the old system of the secondary school level or 150 credits from the new system.

    In order to get an exemption for approval of a school stay, an applicant who does not meet the requirements for education (matriculation certificate or similar program) must demonstrate excellent competence, knowledge and vision of the profession with a submitted portfolio.

Upcoming events in the architecture department