Architectural History and Heritage involves the study of buildings and places, and ours is the only degree programme at this level in the UK. We offer a small but diverse programme taught by a team of specialist, research-active staff. 

MA Architectural History and Heritage explores how people have imagined, designed and used buildings and places in the past. It also considers how these places can be understood today, and what they can tell us about bigger themes in social, political and urban history.

Architectural history and heritage involves the study of buildings and places. Our programme offers an unrivalled breadth of study in the historic built environment.

It places the history of architecture, fine art and heritage management in the context of urbanism and the cultural history of cities. We also consider issues in contemporary architectural heritage.

Our undergraduate degree MA Architectural History and Heritage is the only degree programme at this level in the UK. It is a small, diverse and friendly programme taught by specialist, research-active staff. 

Although our students often take courses in History of Art alongside their studies in the history of architecture, it is possible to have these studies formally recognised through a joint degree in History of Art and Architectural History. A further joint degree programme is available in Architectural History and Archaeology.

You can find out more about joint degrees on the degree finder:

• MA (Hons) Architectural History and Archaeology
• MA (Hons) History of Art and Architectural History

Architectural history and heritage is directly relevant for further study or careers in:

• the conservation of buildings and cities
• land management
• heritage or historical consultancy
• education

However, our graduates also go on to work in a wide range of other areas, using the research and communication skills encouraged by this degree.

Careers Service

Our Careers Service can help you to fully develop your potential and achieve your future goals.

The Careers Service supports you not only while you are studying at the University, but also for up to two years after you finish your studies.

With the Careers Service, you can:

• access digital resources to help you understand your skills and strengths
• try different types of experiences and reflect on how and what you develop
• get help finding work, including part-time jobs, vacation work, internships and graduate jobs
• attend careers events and practice interviews
• get information and advice to help you make informed decisions

Visit the Careers Service website

Further study

After you complete your programme, you may want to go onto further study at Edinburgh or a different university. You could progress to:

• a masters degree
• a postgraduate diploma or certificate
• a PhD
• a second undergraduate degree

Find out about options for further study 

Postgraduate degrees you might be interested in could include:

• Architectural Conservation MSc
• Architecture, Landscape and Environment MSc, PgCert, PgDip
• Cultural Studies MScR
• Cultural Studies PhD
• Architectural History PhD, MPhil

If you'd like to study on an undergraduate programme at Edinburgh College of Art, you must apply through UCAS. You can find out how to do this on the University of Edinburgh website, where you'll also be able to: 

• See the structure of the programme and what you will study each year
• See detailed entrance requirements for each programme on the Degree Finder
• Get information on what to expect after you apply
• Find out about fees
• Find out where to go for further advice and guidance.