The exchange term at Umeå School of Architecture gives the student the opportunity to explore of new fields of knowledge related to architecture and urban design. The aim is to develop your own critical thinking and your ability to apply new perspectives, designing alternative architectural proposals, strategies and practices that can contribute to change in today's societal- and urban development. Important elements of the programme are social- and environmental sustainability, resource awareness, work on different scales, experimenting with technical solutions and prototyping through full-scale construction and architectural interventions and installations in the physical environment.
The package consists of two seminar courses run in parallel with a synthesis course in the form of a design project. The seminar courses introduce and deepen theoretical and technical concepts, methods, processes and issues. Design projects are carried out within different studios, allowing you to choose an approach departing from your personal interest.
5AR420 Synthesis course 1: Architecture and Urban Design Project, Positioning, 20 Credits The course focuses on a specific architectural and urban research theme within which the students are encouraged to develop their own position and agenda. Students formulate and develop a strategic, research-based approach to creating urban and architectural design strategies. The course is studio based. The course teachers adjust and determine specific course information, themes, design requirements, and submission requirements for the academic year.
5AR421 Seminar course 1a: Technology, 5 Credits In the course the students will develop knowledge of structural engineering, environmental comfort, material consideration, system and detail design development. The students will apply this knowledge in design projects with particular focus on sustainability and environmental impact.
5AR422 Seminar course 1b: History & Theory, 5 Credits The course will provide the students with an orientation of the contemporary debate on architecture and urban planning, developing an awareness of the historical, theoretical political and professional concerns and agendas that drive it. Departing from the broad overview the students will identify, explore and research a specific issue related to their work in the synthesis project.
