The Master of Science in Advanced Architectural Design (MSc(AAD)) is a design-focused post-professional, specialist taught postgraduate that creates a unique platform for students, practicing architects and urban researchers to contribute to emergent, cutting-edge research-based design agendas that result in real-life propositions.

MSc(AAD) is envisioned as THE BUILDING SOCIETY, http://www.thebuildingsociety.arch.hku.hk, a collaborative practice-research design studio formed by the students, teachers and collaborators.

The MSc(AAD) curriculum comprises 3 research-based design studio courses (36 credits, including a capstone studio), 3 core courses (18 credits), and 3 elective courses (18 credits), leading to a 1-year full- time study (totalling 72 credits). It provides opportunities for students from different backgrounds:

‧ For students who have studied architecture and developed an interest in new technologies, environmental design, and construction prototyping, the programme provides an opportunity to pursue these through a focused period of additional study, either as a terminal Master degree or a route into architectural doctoral studies.

‧ MSc(AAD) provides a preparatory 12 months degree as a foundation for undertaking PhD, Doctorate of Design or to pursue an academic career. We expect MSc(AAD) to become a well-recognized route into academia for architects throughout East and South-east Asia.

‧ For undergraduates in built environment disciplines (civil engineering, building science and technology, landscape architecture, urban studies, etc.) the MSc(AAD) provides specialist education in architectural research before further professional training.

‧ For those who already have obtained professional degrees and experience and want to further their specialties and skills, the programme provides an opportunity for post-professional specialization to update their skill sets, gain mastery of the latest technologies and re-enter the discipline's frontier topics.

Design Studio Courses

MAAD6101 Design Research Studio I (12 credits)

MAAD6102 Design Research Studio II (12 credits)

MAAD6103 Design Research Studio III - Capstone Experience (12 credits)

Core Courses

MAAD6201 Research-based Design: Case Studies (6 credits)

MAAD6202 Topics in Fabrication: Techniques and Technologies (6 credits)

MAAD6203 Topics in Contemporary Sustainability (6 credits)

Elective Courses

MAAD6301 Fabrication Techniques I (Traditional) (6 credits)

MAAD6302 New Materials (6 credits)

MAAD6303 Experiments in Making (6 credits)

MAAD6304 New Technologies in Design (AR/VR/AI) (6 credits)

MAAD6305 Fabrication Techniques II (Robotic and Digital) (6 credits)

MAAD6306 Sustainable Construction (6 credits)

MAAD6307 Topics in Urbanization (6 credits)

MAAD6308 Creative Practice 1 (6 credits)

MAAD6309 Creative Practice 2 (6 credits)