Recommended Courses

Course Content

To impart project-based knowledge of design and construction in lightweight construction, with a focus on facade construction, taking into account energy-efficient planning and construction aspects. The course examines the interdependencies between structural and finishing grids, the construction of the building envelope, as well as design principles and the integration of glazed elements into the building envelope.

Through assignments of moderate complexity, the relationships between the structural framework, materials, the form of the building envelope, and energy losses are examined. The relationships between orientation and energy balance are calculated in accordance with the requirements of the EnEV. The development of form and structure is illustrated in models and drawings; functionality is demonstrated using selected details.

Through large-scale model-building, students gain knowledge of materials and their processing.

Learning Objectives

Students acquire in-depth knowledge of structural design in lightweight, filigree construction, as well as a solid understanding of building envelope construction in relation to the requirements of the EnEV. They apply this complex knowledge in process-oriented design and planning processes.

They are able to apply the complex knowledge they have acquired in a systematic and typologically structured manner within the architectural planning process.

Contents

Assessment and analysis of an existing urban situation, including its shortcomings and potential for development. Conceptual design for a reorganization, taking into account typical framework conditions and restrictions. Development of urban planning and, where applicable, building design sub-concepts through a process of dialogue and feedback. Presentation of the results using plans, spatial visualizations, and models.

Practical design exercise at scales of 1:1,000 and, where applicable, 1:500. Conversion of the urban design into a zoning plan that complies with regulations.

Learning Objectives

Students are familiar with the fundamental tools and concepts of urban land-use planning and understand their various meanings as well as their interrelationships. They possess basic competencies in urban design within a given spatial context.

In addition, they are able to translate an urban design into a zoning plan largely independently.

Contents

Building on the fundamentals of digital methods (CAD, basics of parametric modeling, and digital visualization), this module provides in-depth knowledge in these areas. Through exercises based on real-world examples, the module not only teaches the methods but also demonstrates their concrete applications in architectural projects.

Another key focus is on digital fabrication methods. The module covers material-specific digital planning processes, machine technologies, and the associated logistical processes, particularly in the field of prefabricated construction.

At the core of the module is a design project in which digital parameters such as construction, materials, ecology, urban planning, and cost-effectiveness are specifically integrated. Based on alternative design approaches, students also develop a conscious awareness and understanding of the complex interactions between the built environment and its context.

Learning Objectives

Students develop architectural design concepts and translate functional requirements into spatial solutions. They analyze sites and contexts, use both analogue and digital design and representation tools, and integrate functional, aesthetic, environmental, and technical considerations into coherent design proposals. The module strengthens their understanding of architecture, the relationship between building and place, and key architectural theories and design principles.

Contents

The first building design project during the degree program in the context of its surroundings: working on a design assignment of moderate complexity with a precise examination of the interrelationships between the building, its surroundings, and its boundaries. Topics covered include functional spaces, the use of light and movement, surface structures (particularly facade design), and materiality. The design is understood as a field of information.

The exercise can be carried out either as a comprehensive individual design or in the form of several different impromptu designs. The projects are integrated into landscape and open-space contexts and prepare students for design tasks on a larger scale.

Learning Objectives

Students will be able to develop a classical building design while integrating the content and competencies from the foundational modules. In addition, they will acquire social skills through the specific project assignment. They will learn to understand architecture as an interplay of ecology, economy, context, and construction.

Course Content

To impart fundamental knowledge of project-based structural design in solid construction, with a focus on the interactions between design and construction. The lecture introduces the essential structural elements of a building, including foundations, facades, openings, floors, roofs, and stairs.

Through an integrated project, students will gradually explore the interplay of these structural elements as well as fundamental issues in structural design. A simple residential design assignment serves to teach process-oriented aspects of material-appropriate and structurally sound design.

The architectural concept is developed with consideration of spatial formation and structural principles as well as the design of openings, and is realized in drawings and models.

Learning Objectives

Students acquire fundamental knowledge of component-oriented structural design in solid construction and are able to apply this knowledge typologically in architectural planning.

They are able to integrate structural requirements into a process-oriented design process and develop architectural solutions that take into account structure, materials, and spatial design.

Contents

Complex Design in a Broader Context: Architectural design is taught within the broader context of planning. Working primarily in interdisciplinary teams, students are tasked with solving a complex design problem from both an organizational and planning perspective, in collaboration with specialist planners and client representatives. The design process is divided into requirements planning (Service Phase 0), an in-depth analysis of the site, strategy and concept development, and architectural elaboration.

Learning Objectives

Students develop integrative design concepts for complex building projects. They analyze requirements, create spatial and programmatic concepts, and translate these into designs that are functionally, structurally, and aesthetically coherent. In doing so, they integrate knowledge from urban planning, construction, structural engineering, building services engineering, and building physics; work in teams; and justify their decisions while taking economic, ecological, and social aspects into account.

Course Content

Formulating a research question on topics related to building culture and developing an independent answer in written form using scholarly methods. Cultural history and architectural theory provide knowledge and methods that help decipher the phenomena of general and architectural design.

Learning Outcomes

Students acquire an in-depth understanding of cultural-historical and architectural-theoretical contexts, as well as their significance for architecture and built culture. They learn to analyze theoretical approaches using scholarly methods and to apply them to their own work. In doing so, they consider both contemporary and cultural-historical aspects of built culture and further develop their subject-specific and methodological competencies.

Course Content

Students deepen their skills in understanding and designing spaces and building forms and develop an independent approach to specific typological and topological issues.

Building on methodological design competencies, they develop alternative solutions to architectural challenges, both on an urban and landscape scale and at the structural and spatial level. In addition, methods of building analysis are taught and applied through examples in the context of a design project or research paper.

Learning Objectives

Students acquire knowledge of key references and theoretical foundations of typology and topology. They formulate independent design ideas and further develop these into structurally, spatially, and contextually compelling architectural concepts, taking into account given constraints.

They apply their design skills, spatial understanding, and knowledge of design processes to develop complex architectural solutions. In doing so, they use experimental approaches, models, and design methods to test and justify their architectural stance.

Furthermore, they are able to critically reflect on their designs and architectural positions and present them coherently through oral, graphic, and substantive means. They work in teams, evaluate different approaches, and synthesize them into a consistent overall result.

Content

As part of a project-based course, students acquire knowledge in the design and construction of wood and lightweight structures. The focus is on facade construction, with particular emphasis on energy-efficient design and construction methods. The course covers the structural fundamentals of timber construction as well as the composition of the building envelope, with a focus on facade technology and energy efficiency.

For a design project, students develop a load-bearing structure of moderate complexity using timber construction methods. The design is developed as a timber or lightweight construction and involves the development of a timber-specific structural system, taking into account the interactions between the structural grid and the construction grid. Students examine in detail the layering sequence of the building envelope, fundamental structural principles, and the integration of glazed components into the building envelope.

The design project addresses fundamental issues in timber construction. Students tackle tasks of moderate difficulty, examining how structural design depends on wood as a material, as well as the relationship between the building envelope’s construction and energy losses.

In addition, they learn about the interaction between daylight and energy balance, as well as its significance for facade design. The development of form and structure is illustrated using models and drawings, which also serve to examine selected details in terms of their function. Material properties and fabrication techniques are taught using a larger-scale model. In addition, students acquire skills in building architectural models for design and construction purposes.

Learning Objectives

Students will have in-depth knowledge of delicate timber structures as well as a solid understanding of the construction of building envelopes and their typological application in architectural planning.

Course Content

Teaching fundamental methods for perceiving and analyzing landscape, urban structure, and urban planning contexts. This includes site surveys, analysis, and their graphical representation, as well as the fundamentals of urban and landscape design.

As part of a practical design assignment, students will work on the planning of a residential area and present it at various scales. Additional topics include the history of urban development—with a particular focus on the urban development of Augsburg—design methodology, urban land-use planning, and sustainable urban development.

In addition, the course covers the tasks and methods of landscape planning, its connection to urban planning and urban design, ecological principles, requirements for open spaces, and their design.

Learning Objectives

Students are familiar with the major trends in urban planning and possess a basic understanding of the goals and methods of sustainable urban development.

They understand the ecological, functional, and design principles of landscape planning as well as its interactions with settlement development. They are able to analyze urban planning and landscape planning tasks and address them using appropriate methods.

In addition, they can independently apply the fundamentals of urban planning and open-space planning to design tasks of moderate complexity.

Contents

Fundamentals of architectural design with a focus on additive and structuring joinery principles as the basis for spatial design, as well as on the use of natural light. In addition, selected architectural theory and architectural references are analyzed.

The focus is on working through a specific design project, which is developed and presented using both analog and digital methods. The course covers the correct recording and presentation of architectural content, standard representation methods for floor plans, elevations, and sections, as well as the basics of data backup and the use of input and output devices. In addition, students practice drawing techniques.

Learning Outcomes

Students master various digital design and presentation methods and confidently use architecture-related software. They are familiar with common procedures for visualizing design concepts and utilize digital tools such as CAD, 3D modeling, rendering, layout, and image editing.

They are able to create architectural drawings and simple construction documents in accordance with standard planning guidelines, as well as to read and interpret existing plans professionally.

In addition, they understand the respective strengths and limitations of analog and digital design and presentation tools and can apply them purposefully according to the specific task at hand.

You can choose between Project Studio I and II!

Project Studio I

Course Content

Working on a design assignment that takes into account aesthetic, functional, structural, and economic requirements in equal measure. Building on a specific assignment, design ideas are developed, refined, and applied to new or unfamiliar contexts.

Particular emphasis is placed on integrating diverse technical requirements and on considering the societal implications of architectural decisions. The goal is to develop an integrated, comprehensive solution that harmonizes various perspectives and framework conditions.
In addition, presentation and communication skills are honed to convey design concepts and solutions clearly to both a professional audience and the general public.

Learning Objectives

You will deepen your understanding of key competencies in the architectural profession, including design, organizational, and economic skills. You will learn to independently tackle complex planning tasks and synthesize diverse requirements into a coherent architectural solution. You will also develop an awareness of architecture’s social responsibility and learn to communicate and present your design ideas in a way that is tailored to your audience.
 

Project Studio II

Content

Working on complex, high-stakes design tasks, particularly at the intersection of urban planning and architecture. The starting point involves analyzing, documenting, and evaluating the existing conditions, as well as engaging with the program, requirements, and objectives. Based on this, various conceptual approaches are developed, evaluated, and gradually refined into a balanced design. Depending on the assignment, urban planning and architectural subprojects are addressed in an iterative process with regular feedback loops. The results are presented in the form of plans, spatial representations, and models.

Learning Objectives

You will be able to develop integrated design concepts that take into account social, urban planning, architectural, ecological, economic, and technical requirements. You will strengthen your skills in designing, planning, and presenting complex projects and will be able to communicate your concepts clearly to both experts and non-specialist audiences.

You can choose between Project Seminar I or II

Project Seminar I

Content

A seminar accompanying the design process, intended to deepen and supplement the technical knowledge gained in Project Studio I. The thematic focus changes from semester to semester.

The seminar addresses selected issues related to the design projects and examines them from both a general and a technical-specialized perspective. Particular attention is paid to the relationships between material, construction, and form, as well as their significance for the architectural design process.

Learning Objectives

You will deepen your skills in architectural design and learn to integrate aesthetic and technical requirements. In addition, you will develop an understanding of how urban planning conditions influence design and layout.

Using general and specialized examples, you will acquire in-depth knowledge of the interplay between materials, construction, and form. You will be able to apply this knowledge conceptually, methodologically, and scientifically in complex design tasks. The skills you acquire will also enable you to work in an experimental, innovative, and research-oriented manner.
 

Project Seminar II

Content

This seminar accompanies Project Studio II and serves to deepen your theoretical understanding of the respective project topic. It supports the exploration of fundamental questions and the technical background of the design project. If courses or presentations are held in English, the module also includes technical terminology. In addition, individual courses may be offered in other European languages.

Furthermore, advanced methods of literature review and case study analysis are taught.

Learning Objectives

You will acquire fundamental—and, depending on the topic, in-depth—knowledge of the current state of theory and practice in the project fields you are working on. You will deepen your knowledge of selected urban planning and architectural topics and engage with current developments and discourses.

In addition, you will expand your ability to analyze the contextual conditions of a project site and a spatial or program of use, and to evaluate their impact on the development of context-specific architectural and urban planning solutions.

Please note: You can select up to two special areas.

Content

This module covers topics that complement the project seminars and is based on an in-depth examination of the organization, design, and materials of architectural spaces.

To this end, you will explore individual aspects of the respective topics and present your findings—for example, on infrastructure, access conditions, base areas, roofscapes, or facades as a “third skin.” Where possible, interdisciplinary topics are offered in collaboration with other faculties, such as the topic “Movable Bridges” in partnership with the Faculty of Civil Engineering. Through collaboration with engineering specialists, you will practice collaborative work processes as well as professional communication with other disciplines.

Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion, you will have in-depth knowledge of parameters of spatial structuring and material aspects in architecture. You will have a solid understanding of specific presentation techniques and will be able to work independently on topics and present them professionally and in a manner tailored to the audience.
In addition, you will gain experience with process-oriented strategies, collaborative methods, and forms of communication, particularly when working with professional engineers.

Content

Accompanying seminar for the master’s thesis. The specific content is based on the respective topics of the theses being written and addresses issues in architecture, urban planning, and theory. The focus is on professional reflection on one’s own project, academic exchange, and the discussion of various methodological and substantive approaches.

Learning Objectives

You will deepen your skills in academic work and further develop your methodological and analytical competencies. You will learn to formulate and defend professional positions on specific topics at an academic level. In addition, you will be able to present and explain the functional, design-related, technical, and economic aspects of complex design solutions in a clear and comprehensible manner. You will be able to integrate diverse disciplinary and interdisciplinary perspectives into your project work and synthesize them into a coherent overall argument.

Contents

The topic of the master’s thesis is generally determined on an individual basis and falls within the disciplinary fields of the Architecture program. The thesis consists of a theoretical and a design-related component. The written portion may be submitted in German or English. With the supervisor’s approval, another language may also be used. The results of the thesis are presented in a public presentation.

The master’s thesis marks the completion of the degree program and is carried out as an independent academic and design-based project under the supervision of a professor.

Learning Outcomes

You will be able to independently address a complex architectural problem while combining academic methods with design-oriented approaches. You will analyze problem statements independently, develop well-founded solutions, and implement them in a coherent theoretical and design-based project. Furthermore, you will be able to document, present, and defend your results in a clear, convincing, and audience-appropriate manner.