The Foundation Programme is a one-year full-time course that focuses on observation, conversation and the development of key skills. This course is aimed at students who are at the very start of their architectural studies, and facilitates individual and group project work.
The Intermediate Programme (BA(Hons)) is a three-year full-time programme. The First Year is characterised by its shared, open studio, where students work individually and together across a series of projects. Years two and three introduce students to the unit system, in which small design studios (12–14 students) operate a vertical structure of Second and Third Year students.
The Diploma Programme (MArch) is a two-year full-time programme that accepts students who have completed the Intermediate Programme at the AA, as well as eligible new students who have studied elsewhere. The programme leads to the AA Final Examination (ARB/RIBA Part 2) and is structured around a unit system, in which small design studios (12–14 students) operate a vertical structure of Fourth and Fifth Year students.
The AA offers ten Taught Postgraduate Programmes for students with prior academic and professional experience. Most of the programmes are full-time courses of advanced study, except for Conservation and Reuse, which provides a part-time study option.
Professional Practice is a RIBA Part 3 course and examination that allows successful candidates to register as architects with the Architects Registration Board (ARB). The course is open to AA RIBA Part 2 graduates and eligible non-graduates.
The Visiting School encompasses diverse learning programmes, workshops and site-based agendas shaped by participants working intensively in small groups over varying periods of time from one to two weeks. Central to each programme is the idea that experimental, new and provocative forms of architecture are best learned by doing.
The Visiting School encompasses diverse learning programmes, workshops and site-based agendas shaped by participants working intensively in small groups over varying periods of time from one to two weeks. Central to each programme is the idea that experimental, new and provocative forms of architecture are best learned by doing. These programmes take place all over the world, including Bedford Square in London and Hooke Park in Dorset. The Visiting School welcomes applicants in any moment of their studies and careers, from within and outside of the architectural realm. The AA Summer School Programme, also part of the Visiting School, is equally open and takes place for three weeks during the summer period.
DTA Students’ education and architectural practices post AA
Join one of our Visiting School short courses happening around the world.

Fees do not include flights or accommodation, but accommodation options can be advised.
Students need to bring their own laptops, digital equipment and and drawing tools.
Accommodation:
The Shanghai Institute of Visual Arts has an official partner hotel on campus that applicants can book:
Name: Shanghai Visual Gaoduan Hotel (Songjiang University Town Branch)
Phone Number: (021) 67626782
Address: Building 10-2, No. 2200 Wenxiang Road, Songjiang University Town, Shanghai
In addition, applicants can choose from a variety of affordable hotels near the Shanghai Institute of Visual Arts. Reservations can be made through Chinese travel apps such as Ctrip and Qunar.
APPLICATIONS FOR THIS PROGRAMME WILL OPEN SOON
By submitting an application to the programme, participants confirm that they have read, understood, and agreed to the AA Visiting School Terms and Conditions.
A small number of places are available for this programme, we advise you to secure your place as soon as possible by completing the online application and making a full payment of the fees. Please note that a deposit payment holds your place onto the course but does not confirm it.
1. Standard Application:
2. AA Students and Melbourne University Students:
3. Scholarship application: Bursaries applications for the Sumer School in London are now closed.
Note: Check the step-by step guide to navigate the AA Applicant's portal.
Applications deadline: Until capacity is reached.
Applicants must be aged 18 or over.
The course is aimed at creative minds: prospective architectural students; current architectural students who would like to experience the learning environment at the AA; those who are considering a change of school; those who have just completed school; individuals considering a change of career; and newcomers to architecture are all welcome to explore and innovate at the AA Summer School.
If you are traveling to Shanghai, China from abroad, it is your responsibility to ensure that you hold the right documents to enter the country.
All applicants entering China are required to contact the Chinese Embassy in their country of residency.
All participants are responsible for securing their own travel and health insurance. Please ensure that your travel insurance also covers your personal belongings i.e. laptop, equipment, tools, passport etc. The AA takes no responsibility for lost/ stolen property.