Architecture, Cultural Identity and Globalisation: University of Westminster

Introduction
This design-based course is the first of its kind in Britain, and amongst the first anywhere in the world. It offers an opportunity for students to examine and discuss a wide range of issues related to cultural and personal identity at an advanced theoretical level. It explores these issues through design propositions. Issues to be studied include gender, ethnicity, globalisation, power and cultural representation. Strong emphasis will be placed on the international transformations of notions of cultural identity, and yet there will also be a particular focus on contemporary London as a crucial global centre for cultural exchange and debate. By the end of the course, students will have produced a portfolio that consists of a series of design projects, written essays and other forms of output.
Course Content
In the course, issues such as gender, ethnicity, globalisation, power and cultural representation are explored through design propositions. Strong emphasis is placed on international transformations of notions of cultural identity, yet there is also a particular focus on contemporary London as a crucial global centre for cultural exchange and debate. By the end of the course, you will have produced a portfolio that consists of a series of design projects, written essays and other forms of output.
Modules

• Design Project 1 and 2
• Introduction to Theories of Identity, Culture and Globalisation
• Representations of Race, Identity, Difference
• Theories of Movement: Diaspora, Displacement, Migration
• Thesis Project/Report

Teaching and Assessment
Assessment is by portfolios of project and written work in the first two semesters of the course, followed by a major thesis project over the summer vacation.
Associated Careers
This course is aimed at those who wish to practice as architects, or in some branch of spatial design within the built environment.
Entry Requirements

• Candidates should normally hold a good Honours degree in architecture or a related design subject.
• Applicants from design practitioners who are seeking career development are also strongly encouraged.
• For students who take MA Architecture, Cultural Identity and Globalisation course and who may be interested in further study, the Department and the School also offer suitable applicants the opportunity to study for a MPhil/PhD, not only through the traditional Research Mode, but now also through a Design Project route