Master of Architecture
The Master of Architecture (M.Arch) is a 30-credit-hour postgraduate degree completed over a minimum of three semesters, with thesis and non-thesis pathways. Built around research-led design studios, advanced building technology…
Master of Architecture (M.Arch) Overview
The Master of Architecture (M.Arch) is a 30-credit-hour postgraduate degree completed over a minimum of three semesters, with thesis and non-thesis pathways. Built around research-led design studios, advanced building technology and six elective groups, it prepares architects and allied graduates for senior design, research and leadership roles — in a profession where PCATP reports fewer than 9,000 registered architects serving a population of over 220 million.
Key Features
- Thesis & Non-Thesis Pathways30 credit hours over a minimum of three semesters: complete 24 credit hours of coursework plus a 6-credit-hour thesis, or choose the coursework-only option of 10 courses.
- Research-Led DesignCore courses in Architectural Design Research & Development and Research Methods build the ability to investigate complex architectural problems and validate design decisions.
- Six Elective GroupsElectives cover heritage conservation, BIM and building systems, energy-efficient architecture, construction and disaster management, affordable housing, earthquake architecture, and climate-responsive design.
- A Profession in DemandPCATP reports fewer than 9,000 registered architects for a population of over 220 million, and master’s degree holders are preferred in the public sector and required for teaching positions.
Is Master of Architecture Right for You?
This program may suit you if you want to move beyond undergraduate-level knowledge and develop deeper expertise in your field. It is designed for serious learners who are prepared for advanced study, independent reading, research, analysis and sustained academic work.
This program may be a good fit if you:
- Want advanced academic or professional expertise.
- Are prepared for independent study and research.
- Want to analyse complex problems using evidence.
- Are comfortable with academic writing, discussion and critical review.
- Want to progress toward research, teaching, leadership or advanced professional roles.
Admission and degree completion remain subject to the approved HEC and University requirements for the program.
Courses by Semester
Tap a semester to see its courses.
Semester 1
| Subject | Credit Hours |
|---|---|
| MARCH 601 — Architectural Design Research & Development I (Core) | 3 |
| MARCH 602 — Research Methods (Core) | 3 |
| Elective I — from Elective Group E-I | 3 |
| Elective II — from Elective Group E-II | 3 |
Semester 2
| Subject | Credit Hours |
|---|---|
| MARCH 603 — Architectural Design Research & Development II (Core) | 3 |
| MARCH 604 — Design and Technology in Architecture (Core) | 3 |
| Elective III — from Elective Group E-III | 3 |
| Elective IV — from Elective Group E-IV | 3 |
Semester 3
| Subject | Credit Hours |
|---|---|
| MARCH 660 — Thesis (thesis option), or two additional electives from Groups E-V & E-VI (non-thesis option) | 6 |
Fees & Scholarship
| Tuition / semester | Rs. 125,000 |
| Admission and Registration Fee | Rs 30,000 (one-time) |
The Admission and Registration Fee is a one-time charge and becomes payable only after you receive your provisional admission offer. Nothing is payable to submit an application.
Admission Requirements
Eligibility — a relevant 16-year qualification, including:
- Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch), Architectural Engineering or Landscape Architecture
- BSc City & Regional Planning, Civil Engineering, Environmental or Public Health Engineering
- B.Tech (Civil / Architecture), Building Sciences, or Bachelor of Building & Construction
- Product & Industrial Design, Interior Design or Islamic Architecture
- MA in Geography, Archaeology or Architectural History
- Any other relevant undergraduate degree approved by the equivalence committee of the Architecture Department
Admission criteria:
- Minimum 50% marks in the annual system, or 2.0/4.0 CGPA in the semester system
- GAT General or USA Graduate Admission Test — minimum score 50
- Interview with the Admission Committee
- No third division in the academic career
Campus: offered at the Lahore Cantt Campus only — 47 Tufail Road, Lahore Cantt.
Career Prospects
Public-sector departments dealing with building-related activities — the Public Works Department (PWD), Communication & Works, development authorities, municipal corporations, and Housing & Physical Planning — maintain positions for architects and give preference to master’s degree holders. A master’s degree is also mandatory for appointment as a lecturer in architectural schools, and graduates can establish their own consultancy practices or take senior roles in private design offices.
Program Outcomes
Program Educational Objectives (PEOs)
PEO-1:
Identify, investigate and analyse complex architectural problems and suggest multiple solutions with the help of an effective research methodology, coordinating with all stakeholders in the architectural design process.
PEO-2:
Realise the role of an architect in the built environment and recommend sustainable solutions in architectural design.
PEO-3:
Develop an effective design philosophy.
Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs)
PLO-1: Architecture Knowledge
Apply knowledge of architectural history, theories of architecture, art, culture, environment, social science, urbanism and technology where applicable while dealing with architectural design problems.
PLO-2: Professional Skills
Develop architectural design integrating building systems to achieve the desired performance of a building in terms of spatial, thermal, air quality, acoustic and visual integrity.
PLO-3: Design / Development of Solutions
Design solutions for complex architectural problems with the help of in-depth architectural knowledge and research, giving emphasis to environmental considerations to meet specified needs.
PLO-4: Investigation
Conduct investigations of complex architectural problems using research-based knowledge and effective research methods.
PLO-5: Problem Analysis
Identify architectural problems through relevant literature, precedents and case studies, and present validated conclusions after effective analysis using various IT tools.
PLO-6: Communication
Communicate effectively on broadly and well-defined architecture activities with the architecture community and society at large — through reports, design documentation and presentations.
PLO-7: Leadership and Professional Ethics
Inspire and motivate team members with leadership skills including interaction, collaboration, negotiation, interpersonal relationships and professional ethics.
PLO-8: Lifelong Learning
Acquire knowledge, professional skills and information in the context of innovation and professional developments in architecture through continuous effort from diverse sources.
PLO-9: Architect and Society
Demonstrate knowledge of and the need for sustainable architecture, and understand the role of an architect in societal and environmental contexts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the thesis and non-thesis options?
Both options total 30 credit hours. The thesis option combines 24 credit hours of coursework (four core and four elective courses) with a 6-credit-hour thesis in the third semester; the non-thesis option replaces the thesis with two additional elective courses.
Who is eligible to apply for the M.Arch?
Holders of a relevant 16-year qualification — including B.Arch, BSc City & Regional Planning, BSc Civil Engineering, architectural or environmental engineering, B.Tech (Civil / Architecture), landscape architecture, interior design and related degrees — with minimum 50% marks or 2.0/4.0 CGPA. Other relevant degrees can be approved by the Department’s equivalence committee.
How long does the program take?
A minimum of three semesters — one and a half years — covering 30 credit hours.
Which campus offers the M.Arch?
Architecture programs are offered at the Lahore Cantt Campus only, 47 Tufail Road.
Master of Architecture — Your Decision at a Glance
- Eligibility
- 16 years of relevant education as per HEC requirements with minimum 50% marks, plus GAT/HAT or University admission test as applicable
- Duration
- 1.5 Years
- Semesters
- 3
- Tuition Fee
- Rs. 125,000 per semester
- Intake
- Fall 2026 Admissions Open
- Recognition / Accreditation
- Offered by an HEC-recognised, chartered university
