MA Architecture & Spatial Practices
The Faculty of Architecture and Design’s M.A. in “Architecture & Spatial Practices” is available in both one-year and two-year formats. The program features an international, practice- and research-oriented curriculum with an open thematic focus. In the two-year program, the first year expands on foundational skills in design, construction, and research, while the second year aligns with the one-year program. In their final year (or in the one-year program), students choose a specialization in Urban & Social Practice, Material & Resilience Practice, or Critical & Curatorial Practice, which shapes their master's thesis and design project.
The one-year version is designed for graduates with a four-year architecture degree, while the two-year version is tailored for those with a three-year undergraduate degree.
Dean of the Faculty of Architecture and Design
Study MA Architecture & Spatial Practices
The learning environment fostered at Berlin International is student-centered and hands-on. Our teaching concept focuses on project-based learning; students work individually and in groups in order to promote professional and personal growth and the development of team skills. At the MA level, students are enabled to combine their increasing design and research skills with their growing independence as a design professional. All MA programs at Berlin International are taught in English. In combination with our diverse student and teaching body and our global network this enables us to offer a truly international academic experience.
In a practice-driven and supportive learning atmosphere, an internationally experienced team of instructors challenges students to build on their pre-existing knowledge and expand their professional horizons.
The two-year program begins with a foundational first year, deepening skills in design, construction, and research as well as choosing a first specialization. The second year then mirrors the structure of the one-year program where all students in their final year select a specialization – Urban & Social Practice, Material & Resilience Practice, or Critical & Curatorial Practice – that will guide their master's thesis and design project.
- Architecture and urban design practices
- Construction companies
- Building materials industry
- Cultural and state institutions
- Freelance work
- Academic and research institutions in architecture
- Sustainable and environmental designer
Learn more about the MA Architecture & Spatial Practices program and Berlin International. Below, you can download the study plan, and our current academic calendar in PDF format.
Apply for MA Architecture & Spatial Practices
- A bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in Architecture is necessary.
- General prerequisites for master’s level study in Germany apply.
The application process for studying MA Architecture & Spatial Practices at Berlin International is very easy. You can simply and safely share your personal information through our online application platform. After receiving a confirmation email with a link, a copy of the following documents can be uploaded:
- Passport
- High school diploma certificate with transcript (German Abitur, Fachabitur or equivalent). Please also submit an official translation of the diploma and transcript into English or German if they are in another language.
- University certificate with transcript. Please also submit an official translation of the diploma and transcript into English or German if they are in another language.
- English language test certificate (CEFR level B2 or above)
- CV
- Letter of motivation
- Portfolio PDF with a minimum of 10 works from previous studies and/or professional experience. See the guidelines here.
For more information, please use the menu item Admission.
Our MA Architecture & Spatial Practices program is taught in English. We will require proof of your language skills. German knowledge is not required.
If your language skills are at CEFR Level B2 or above, one of the following currently valid language test certificates and scores can be accepted for your application:
- TOEFL ITP: 543
- TOEFL IBT: 74
- IELTS (Academic): 6.0 Overall
- Cambridge FCE: B2
- PTE Academic: 59
- BI internal exam/ BAU 'English Language Proficiency Exam': 60/100
- IB Diploma: English A or B at HL or SL
- German Abitur
The score must be earned within the last two years.
If you have not completed high school in a predominantly English-speaking country (USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Ireland, New Zealand) or a bachelor's degree fully in English, an approved language exam is required in order to qualify for admission.
You are welcome to attend the internal Berlin International language proficiency exam. It will be hosted online, participation is free of charge and can be offered once an application to one of our programs has been made and admission requirements have been met.
For the dates of our next language proficiency exam, see the Language Requirements tab on our Admissions Page.
Preparatory School:
If you do not yet have CEFR level B2 English, and you meet the admission requirements to study at BI, you can sign up for our English Preparatory School.
