Architectural Association - In Depth

Founded: 1847.

Site: Central London.

How to get there: Tottenham Court Road underground station.

Special features: International character of school reflected by teaching staff offering a wide range of design options and teaching styles. Students recognised as individuals and expected to demonstrate a high level of self-motivation to benefit from programme (including seminars and tutorials with professional consultants and members of allied disciplines).

Academic features: 1-year Foundation course offered to develop creative skills in intensive programme of studio work. 5-year RIBA/ARB recognised course in architecture has emphasis on developing personal creativity with strong self-directed tutorials.

Awarding body: AA, RIBA/ARB.

Main awards: AA Diploma, AA Intermediate (RIBA/ARB Part 1), AA Finals (RIBA/ARB Part 2).

Length of courses: 5 years; 1 year for eg Foundation.

Library & information services: 30,000+ books, 100,000 slides, 50 study places. IT and library services separate. 60 networked PCs/Macs with access to internet and so to library catalogue (ratio workstations to students 1:9), open 13 hours/day. IT support provided by four members of staff. Library induction talk provided within introduction week.

Specialist collections: 1930s photographs by FR Yerbury.

Study abroad: Study trips worldwide.

Careers: Information and advice from practical training adviser.

Student advice & services: Pastoral care and individual counselling available.

Amenities: International exhibition gallery, specialist bookshop, dining room, bar, darkroom, audio-visual dept, print and model workshops, electronic media studio.