Which A Levels Should I Study For Architecture?

Estimated reading time: 7 minutes

Important Skills for Studying Architecture

It is important to choose A Level subjects that demonstrate and develop essential skills

When considering a career in architecture or pursuing a degree in architecture at university, it is important to develop a range of skills that will contribute to your success in the field.  Here are some of the most important skills for aspiring architects:

• Creativity and Design Thinking: Architecture is a highly creative field that requires the ability to think outside the box and develop innovative design solutions.  Cultivating your creativity will allow you to generate unique and aesthetically pleasing designs that meet the functional and practical needs of a project.
• Spatial Awareness and Visualisation: Architects must possess strong spatial awareness and visualisation skills.  This involves the ability to mentally visualise and manipulate three-dimensional spaces, as well as understand how people will interact with and move through a building or environment.
• Technical and Analytical Skills: Architects need to have a solid understanding of technical aspects, such as building materials, construction techniques, and structural systems.  Developing analytical skills will enable you to evaluate the feasibility and viability of design concepts, analyse complex problems, and make informed decisions.
• Strong Drawing and Sketching Abilities: Being able to effectively communicate your design ideas through sketches and drawings is essential in architecture.  Developing strong drawing skills will help you express your concepts visually, communicate with clients and colleagues, and explore design options during the creative process.
• Problem Solving and Critical Thinking: Architects face numerous challenges throughout the design and construction process.  Strong problem solving and critical thinking skills are necessary to identify issues, develop practical solutions, and adapt designs to meet changing requirements or constraints.
• Attention to Detail: In architecture, even the smallest details matter.  Developing an eye for detail and an appreciation for precision will ensure that your designs are well-crafted, functional, and aesthetically pleasing.  Paying attention to details also contributes to the safety and structural integrity of a building.
• Communication and Collaboration: Architects must effectively communicate their ideas to clients, contractors, and other professionals involved in a project.  Strong verbal and written communication skills are essential for presenting proposals, negotiating with stakeholders, and collaborating with teams.
• Time Management and Organisation: Architecture projects often have strict deadlines and require managing multiple tasks simultaneously.  Developing good time management and organisational skills will help you stay on track, meet deadlines, and successfully navigate the complex process of design, documentation, and construction.
• Cultural and Environmental Awareness: Architecture is not just about buildings; it is also about the impact on the environment and the communities it serves.  Having an understanding of cultural, social, and environmental contexts will enable you to create sustainable and inclusive designs that respond to the needs of the people and the surrounding environment.
• Continuous Learning and Adaptability: Architecture is a field that constantly evolves with advancements in technology, materials, and design trends.  Cultivating a passion for lifelong learning and staying updated with industry changes will ensure that you remain relevant and adaptable throughout your career.

While these skills are important, note that no one will have mastered all of them by the time they enter university!  It is important, however, to begin developing and honing these skills during your A Level years, through formal education, practical experience, and a genuine passion for architecture.  Embrace opportunities to engage in hands-on projects, internships, and mentorship programs to further enhance your skills and gain valuable industry insights.

What A Levels Should You Choose To Study Architecture at University?

If you dream of becoming an architect and designing awe-inspiring structures that shape the world around us, it's crucial to lay a strong foundation during your A Level studies.  A Levels provide a stepping stone towards university education and play a pivotal role in shaping your future career.  Below is a list of A Level subjects often chosen by students who want to go on to study architecture, along with a description of how each subject can contribute to your development as an aspiring architect.

Note when choosing your A Level subjects that many university architecture programs would discourage applicants from having all their A Levels be in art-related subjects.  For that reason, including some mathematics and/or physics in your A Level mix is a good idea.  Also note that university interviews for architecture programs may require students to submit portfolios of their work.  So for that reason, including A Levels such as Art and Design or Design and Technology can be very helpful.

• Mathematics: Mathematics is an essential subject for aspiring architects, as it forms the bedrock of architectural design. Architects frequently use mathematical principles in their work, including geometry, algebra, and trigonometry.  By studying mathematics at A Level, you will develop problem solving abilities, spatial reasoning skills, and an understanding of proportions and measurements.  These skills are vital for creating accurate drawings, calculating structural stability, and designing functional spaces.
• Physics: Physics is another valuable A Level subject for aspiring architects.  It provides a foundation in the fundamental principles of forces, mechanics, and materials.  Understanding physics helps architects design structures that are structurally sound, capable of withstanding environmental factors, and energy-efficient.  Knowledge of physics enables architects to optimise building designs for factors such as natural lighting, insulation, and ventilation.
• Art and Design: The study of Art and Design is highly beneficial for aspiring architects, as it nurtures creativity and cultivates a visual understanding of form, space, and aesthetics.  A Level Art and Design will encourage you to explore various artistic mediums, develop your sketching and drawing skills, and expand your knowledge of art history and architectural styles.  This subject allows you to think critically and express your ideas through visual means, both of which are crucial for architects when communicating their designs to clients and other professionals.
• Design and Technology: A Level Design and Technology provides an excellent opportunity to explore materials, construction techniques, and technological advancements related to architecture.  This subject emphasises problem solving, innovation, and hands-on experience in creating functional products.  By studying Design and Technology, you will gain valuable insights into architectural materials, manufacturing processes, and sustainable design practices.  This knowledge will enable you to create environmentally friendly and structurally efficient designs in the future.
• Geography: Geography is an A Level subject that architects can benefit from greatly.  It provides an understanding of the physical and human characteristics of the built environment, as well as the impact of geographical factors on architectural design.  Studying geography allows aspiring architects to consider site analysis, environmental sustainability, and the integration of structures with their surroundings.  It enhances your knowledge of urban planning, landscape design, and the cultural context in which architecture exists.
• Further Mathematics: For students who have a strong aptitude for mathematics and a desire to delve deeper into the subject, Further Mathematics is an excellent choice.  This A Level subject expands upon the concepts covered in Mathematics and provides additional tools and techniques that are directly applicable to architectural pursuits.  Further Mathematics equips you with advanced mathematical skills, such as calculus and matrices, which are crucial for analysing complex structural systems and optimising architectural designs.

Best A Level Combinations for Architecture

From that list of subjects, a few typical combinations might be:

• Mathematics, Physics, and Art and Design
• Mathematics, Physics, and Design and Technology
• Mathematics, Design and Technology, and Geography
• Mathematics, Art and Design, Design and Technology

Many other combinations are also possible, however, and there are other A Level subjects not on the above list that might be appropriate for you as an aspiring architecture student. If there are particular universities you are interested in attending, it is also very important to investigate any specific A Level requirements that they might have for their architecture programs.

Choosing the right A Level subjects is crucial for pursuing a successful career in architecture.  By studying the correct subjects, you will develop a strong foundation in the key areas of architecture, including problem solving, creativity, spatial reasoning, and an understanding of materials and construction techniques.  Remember, while A Levels are important, your passion, dedication, and a well-rounded portfolio are equally vital in pursuing a degree in architecture.

Further reading:

• A Level Maths
• A Level Chemistry
• A Level Physics
• A Level Biology