Looks as if I might be going to the AA this fall. Does anyone know anything about there studio culture??? or the structure of the classes? Do they even work in the studios there?
they do, and my experience is yes ppl work a lot studio or at home, but be ready to have no sleep at all for the next year, and also to never sightsee london....at the end u will like it u will see....good luck and i think ur going to a great school
The AA is a great school, but there are several myths about studios at the school. The bottom line is yes, there are a very limited number of studios. Very, very few students work in them because they have very few spaces. I worked in the studios for one term. They are often allocated to students who can prove that they do not have the facilities to work at home, or if you are willing to give your right arm or something. For instance, I was moving and my apt. was turned upside down for a term, so I requested a studio.
Because there are only a few desks, its highly unlikely you would work with anyone in your unit. So, there is essentially no studio culture at the school, at least in the US sense. The school promises more studios year after year, but don't count on it - London is £££, and the AA is housed in 2 small townhouses.
If you work alone well, I would say its a great set up. About 90% of the students work at home, and you meet with your tutors or the unit once or twice a week.
I would seriously advise you to investigate the course structure at the school before you attend. Studio is king, and your technical, theory and communications courses take the back burner. I think most students from the US find it to me more conceptual and artistic than practical, and its so theoretical you will either love it or hate it.
There are several threads on here about accreditation in the States from the AA or the UK. From what I gathered and from my own experience, its not easy at all. A lot of people just go back and get their Master's in the states because they lack the courses required. Having your drawings translated by NCARB is expensive and very time consuming (like as in years and years). So it all depends upon what your goals are as an architect.
My advice is... before you commit gather all the information you can. Its very different from US schools and can be a great experience. But, you need to make sure it is for you b/c London and the AA are very expensive. My advice: just know exactly what you are getting into.
I am not necessarily the type that loves to work at home... so that is the only thing that is holding me back. My favorite thing about undergrade was being in studio. It is either the AA or SCI-Arc and they seem to be on opposite ends of the spectrum in terms of studio culture.
To be perfectly honest, I found it very difficult to work alone. At the AA you work very independently of one another, and I missed the exchange of ideas with other students. I find it hard to keep your momentum up, especially late at night, when you're working alone. Others find it a very good way to work.
The courses at the AA and SCI-Arc are very similar, at least from what I saw at both schools. In fact, and probably as you know, SCI-Arc was founded on the principles of the AA. I can almost guarantee you 90% of your work at the AA will be done at home. What year did they offer you?
I went into the second year and left after the third because I came to the realization I was working my butt off, the technical education wasn't enough to qualify for my license in the US, the AA costs an arm and a leg, and people in the states could care less if I went to the AA or anywhere else. I do have to say the AA gave me a very intuitive design sense that has taken me very far in my current job. But, it didn't open any doors in the States per se.
Also, you should know the RIBA Part I and Part II are NOT the equivalent of a Master's in the states. They both have their pluses and minuses, but I found they are definately NOT equivalent degrees. Its best to study where you want to practice.
Its really about what you want. If you want to stay in London, go to the AA. If you want to stay in the states, go to SCI-Arc. If you want studios, go to SCI-Arc.
I faced a similar choice, between the AA, Parsons and SCI-Arc. In retrospect, I wish I had gone to SCI-Arc. Just personal experience though...
HOw does the AA compare to the Bartlett? Just went to the end of year exhibition and the work look interesting and complex. They had some beautiful Japanese style 3D extuded drawings, the drawing skills of the first year students were exceptional.
i think remember you from the other grad school threads no?....it seems like you've had a hard time deciding between columbia, bartlett, sci-arc, and AA......all similar, but also very different schools. but if it's studio culture you want, SCI-Arc should be your choice....i've heard the same things as you read above....and just to reiterate: you will NOT see london if you are DRL, and it WILL cost you much more than the american schools.
also, i don't know where you want to live and work after, but grad school is in fact the place where you will make most of your professional connections, so take that into consideration...if that even matters to you.
one thing i have heard about the AA is studio space is incredibly limited is it also true that you have to rent the space you are using? I still see students working in groups there around the cafe/bar area, they also have a multi story building along tottenham court road with quite a few desks. This area is used during the summer school. I'd recommend living close to campus, the last thing you want to do is take your portfolio across london and get it damaged in the tube. The AA does have its advantages, you have the oppertunity to work with Peter Salter, but as mentioned before you have to be prepared for sleepless nights. I've found that the people running the workshops are really friendly and helpful.
Amanning...you need to clarify...which program are you going to? The Diploma school at the AA, or one of the graduate programs, like the DRL at the AA? That makes a big difference....
If you are going to diploma, then everything above is right. If you are going to DRL, then you do have studio space, it is just really cramped...you'll be at a different building than the main one...it is St.John's...and you'll be surrounded by all the other students from the DRL...I have a couple of friends that have been through the DRL program, and they all did their work in studio...
As for AA/Bartlett...the diploma schools are pretty similar, in the sense that the diploma unit masters really direct the nature of the work you'll do. There is a lot of variety to the work, and you'll have to be selective to tailor your experience....
can anyone comment on the question of money at the AA ? what's the tuition cost and what do they normally offer in the way of grants or scholarships or loans ? do they do anything to deflect the living costs of london ?
I'm really interested in the school but I'm a bit heartbroken at the prospect that only rich students can make it work.
get up to date![with your hearsay -- second hand -- old information and wives tales about the aa when your granny used to attend.....!]
for dips:
where studio space was limited in the past, its different this past year. most the dip programs at the AA have taken over morrell street building - not just the indiginous poor ones[thats sort of an oxymoron to use the word 'poor and AA' in one statement]. the school is gradually and actively trying to expand to adjacent buildings; 37 bedford square is where many of the seminars take place.
for grads:
the first term of the drl is a bit cramped as both phase i and phase ii students share the space. that being said -- i have never heard anyone complain about the grad studios at john street [except housing and environment share a space in the basement] from jan on - it works really well - open 8 - 11 - 7 days generally and does do 24 hours on occasion. 15-20 min walk to bedford sq. many seminar courses are here.
for phds:
dont even ask. its a real joke. all phds share one closet with a couple of oldest pentium II computers. oh but they have an a4 printer. yahoo.
thenewold -
I don't know if you'd be applying as an overseas student, but just to put things in perspective, check the fees that The Bartlett are charging if you are.
They might be a little lower, but still quite hefty. The difference is of course that everyone, including overseas, EU or UK students pay the same fee at the AA.
However, the AA does offer a few scholarships and bursaries. They also have a financial advisor who you can contact if/when you're accepted. If the AA is really where you want to go, then I wouldn't let money worries stand in the way...But of course, you have to be realistic and think about your future.
Lacking parental support or savings you're most likely looking at a mix of student loans (if available), scholarships (if you can get them), part time work and bank loans for the diploma. For something like DRL you might be able to get a professional loan or CDL if you're in the UK.
amanning - I can't answer your question, but it sounds a bit like you haven't visited the AA yet, despite having been accepted? I guess it's a bit late now if you have your place already and is all set to go, but I would definately have visited or communicated these questions to someone at the school directly before or whilst in the process of applying. Did you read the prospectus?
Also, the AA have several unit websites and a photolog you can check for impressions of school life, specifically this year's unit3. And there's the school blog here at archinect. Not the real thing obviously.
henrik, my response with regard to fees is based upon the so-called 'package' that the AA gives verse what the bartlett gives.
as far as i am concerned what the aa gave for admission package was exactly what i stated - no exageration. 6 pages of paying your fees.[i have both in front of me] it was an embarisment as far as i was concerned. one term has to in july. bartlett - no application fee - no prepaid fee.
first i heard of a financial advisor at the AA. the have a development office but thats not for students. i find out about potential funding sources by looking at the UCL web site than i ever got from any direct person at the AA. one only has to look at the AA web site to see what i mean. thats it. its not like going to a US school where they seriously seek out how to ease the cost of grad school.
but for non eu, there is little difference in fees between bartlett and aa.
while one could work in the lib [phd] for just above min wage at the aa, the bartlett offers more financial support in the way of actively [via a university wide department] seeking research funding. bartlett grad students also have some assistanships which are non-existant at the aa except for a small handfull [3] phd students teaching theory. unfortunately its not what the AA is about.
you can get US student loans to attend the AA [up to $18k per year]
i am not familiar with what henrik is speaking of with regard to uk loans but as your legal status in the uk ends at the end of the course i cant imagine banks here handing a temp foriegner money. it took most students i know 3-4 months just for the bank to give them a simple bank account.
i am not rich and am paying the fees myself and am heavily in debt.
Does anyone know how large the diploma school is? How many people are in each of the units?
I plan on applying next year to the diploma school for first year and I am wondering what the intellectual culture of the school is like. I will be visiting the school soon to check it out but I wouldn't mind knowing a little about the inner workings of the school before I go. Is all the talk I hear about AA being very experimental and allowing students significant freedom true - or is it just a lot of rhetoric?
I have heard the AA is similar to Columbia in the work the students produce. Any thoughts?
This is for grad/DRL/phd programmes at the AA? - don't know why it would take 6 pages to explain how to pay your fees, but that does sound like a disappointing 'welcome package'.
Yes, the financial advisor is attached to the development office. I made an appointment and had a meeting on the advice of the admissions office and was not under the impression that this was a unique offer...
I agree, it takes a bit of hard work to become clear on funding - but keep in mind the European educational system is still very much based on the idea/illusion that education is (relatively) free - there isn't the long history and financial bodies in place to provide loans etc. that there is in the US. And hopefully it won't go that way! However, as the AA is a private school, I guess this excuse doesn't apply - but if you find that the website is lacking there's nothing to stop you from emailing or phoning the admissions office with your questions.
UK student loans and grants are available to UK and EU students who have resided in the UK for 3 years minimum. Contact the local LEA for uptodate information on what's available (I'd advice you to actually visit the LEA office in person - it helps) and how to apply.
And yeah, i wouldn't expect a UK bank to give you a loan if you're only here temporarily - I would apply for this in my native country (which makes sense if you're going back there at the end of your course anyway).
A professional loan is a package which most UK banks offer to postgrad students - they're aimed specifically at 'high income degrees' like medicine,law and business degrees. As with everything that has to do with banks, it depends on your personal circumstances if and how much you can get. AFAIK, they might also offer it to you if you're in the 4th year of an architectural degree.
A CDL - Career Development Loan - is a UK government scheme, which basically acts a channel for providing you with a bank loan of upto £8k, to help you finance a short degree (eg. a 1 year conversion or other fulltime education to enhance and develop your skills). I'd google this for details.
But again. most of this would not apply to say a US or Chinese (or whatever) student 'flying in' to study at the AA DRL.
The main point I was trying to get across is that it is not impossible - it's just hard work and a big commitment financially.
henrik - forget the local council grants - it was somewhat available for undergrads but nothing else and omeone is feeding you bs if your entering grad and think you can get some bucks through them. undergrad [called intermediate /ba ] at the aa has some chance if as you say you have uk home status.
i will only conclude that there has never -- i repeat none what so ever - british national in the DRL since it began. this was announced to us the first day last sept. by brett [the drl portion] i believe this year there is only 1 uk national in the grad program complete and that person got a bursary [1 of 3 terms paid]. i dont know any other bursaries but their probably are.
for the dip studio size look at the web sites or pick up a projects review. all student names are listed. and that will give you some idea of the work.
dip units work on agendas. many units have unit masters that repeat year to year. so within the dip program you are working within a specific agenda which for dip students is great. still leaves lots of room for your creative wanking.
dip, undergrad and foundation are finished 7 july so you will miss meeting any studio groups. grad programs carry on with dissertations [generally independent work] through the summer and finish in end of sept .
end of year show runs 8 july - 28 july and over takes the school. all are welcome.
well, to underline my earlier concern, the financial situation here, and in truth at American universities also, translates into a situation where the rich are heavily favored. and I'm really wondering if anyone else sees this as a problem. it seems a little like a pink elephant that everyone sees but won't acknowledge.
is it at all fair that the fee schedule is equal for students who will never have to think twice about money and students who will literaly loose sleep and probably cry sometimes over the debt they'll incure to strive to reach the highest levels of what they love?
at least in america, it seems totally 'un-american' that the students who have to work hardest to find money and enter expensive schools should also be the ones who will suffer most. for a lot of really motivated people, the really great programs at the AA or the GSD or columbia are effectively out of reach.
i don't understand why you are concerned about the financial implications of going to the AA.
it is what it is. no one is forcing anyone to go there. the fact that a large number of people choose to go to the AA as opposed to less expensive options is a marker of its status and the experience gained for a fee (however large). and unlike the financial transcation undrtaken by many who go to Harvard GSD [ you pays your money so that you have the name on your CV under the economic allure that it will get you a higher paying job so that you can pay off the big loan you took to go to the GSD ], the AA is about what kind of a particular education you get. and the network of people and visitors you make contact with.
no one - from the chairman on down to the teaching staff to the admin staff - make any real money by working at the AA. the fees are in direct proportion to the costs of being in central London, to having a lecture series that has more relevant and interesting visitors and guests in a week than most schools have in a semester, and to having a range of exhibitions, events and publications that continue to impact on current architectural thought after 35 years.
the school received no grants from central government, it doesn't have an endowment, it doesn't have a wealthy patron, it doesn't fund a football or basketball team; it is just an important school.
it is a fair school for people who do fair work. the AA is quite happy to take the money of rich but mediocre students and keep them around to help subsidise those who have less financial resources but lots of talent and potential.
it would be a better, even more diverse school if the fees were lower or supported by the government, but the one thing the AA has that no American school has is it's profound independence from any outside control. that is the price that students pay
i dont regret any debt i incurred while at the AA - it is well, well worth the fee; nothing is comparable to US schools or other places in the world. i will miss it when i go.
my little love nest?-- of course it only took 15 years to complete - its paying for school[via loan] but i havent rented it yet. its for 100% done - not certain most architects can ever say that about where they live -- the midwest is mighty pretty this time of year....and [forget the cubs] the white sox will be back to capture the world series again -- but i dont think i will ever go back -- i really love londontown. but i miss my little abode. oh well - life isnt perfect!
I'm gonna be at the AA (DRL) this september/October... I'm just hoping on getting some part time job to survive.
meanwhile, the girlfriend has decided to move to London with me so as to work (full time) and support me ..( now isn't that nice of her !!). And she's already aware of the kind of lifestyle i'll be leading (ie; she'll hardly see me)
So I'm gonna be looking out for jobs suitable for accountancy/ finance line for her.
thnaks for all the great info... I have visited the AA and I will be a DRL student if I choose to go. Yes I have had a hard time deciding between a few schools. The AA was my first pick, but I really love the studio culture the US schools seem to have. I feel like the AA lacks that. I have previously lived in London, but only for the summer. 16 months would be quite different. I did love it though.
I have a substantial scholarship to SCI-Arc and have actually worked for Moss before. I feel like I have a pretty clear picture of what SCI-Arc will be, and I love LA!
I am supposed to speak with Yusuke Wednesday morning and hopefully that will aid my decision. A part of me really wants to go, but the other part of me is so afraid that I will feel so disconnected and be working alone all the time. Unfortunately I am not the most self motivated person.
The Bartlett is 15,500 (pds) and the AA is around 19,500 (pds) At Bartlett hardly anyone at all works in the studio and they only come into school to meet with their professors once a week.
Really exciting work and impressive. VERY threoretical and not very applicable. I didn't really like how they worked on the same project all year long and that was the only thing they did.... other than attend lectures at the AA.
I'll be at emtech grad. programme in aa too but looks like im gonna spend more than one year there cuz I want to attend diploma too..my undergrad degree was int. architecture which is also the worst mistake of my life ever :lol
amanning...I'm in the Bartlett program right now...I chose it over the AA's DRL program, mainly because I wasn't that interested in the adaptive environments research that the DRL was focusing on...but they are now into a three year period of research into parametric design...so, know that, if you are headed that way, you'll be looking into that topic....
To be quite honest...if I was in your position now, i'd probably just go to the AA...not to necessarily knock my program...but the Bartlett is really know for what they do in their diploma units...
Anyone from the US moving to London in September... I am wondering how many other Americans to expect in the program... I suspect there will only be 2 or three.
I am a current student of DRL. I'd like to give you some info about DRL.
Firstly, you can find some useful info from new DRL website (it is coming soon). Secondly, you can review our project from AA project review link.
Personally, I enjoy this programme very well. I think, beside of design, the hard core in DRL is teamwork. You have to learn how to cooperate with your team-mates who from different country in the world. You don’t have too much opportunity t change team. It is not easy to integrate three or four people’s idea. We all are struggling with that how to make teamwork efficient. You are from US, so you don have communication problem. That is fine:);.
Anyway, this kind of teamwork is not a typical teamwork that all teammates work with a teamleader. You have to defence your idea, and try to organize your work by yourself.
About part-time job, I think that is very difficult, cuz you have to work with you team. You time is not really control by yourself. The life in DRL is very very busy.
Thanks for the information. I can't wait to get to London and start the program. I know that I have a very challenging and I am sure rewarding 16 months in front of me.
Jul 7, 06 9:01 pm ·
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Architectural Association ANYONE?
Looks as if I might be going to the AA this fall. Does anyone know anything about there studio culture??? or the structure of the classes? Do they even work in the studios there?
you should be asking: do they have studios???
they do, and my experience is yes ppl work a lot studio or at home, but be ready to have no sleep at all for the next year, and also to never sightsee london....at the end u will like it u will see....good luck and i think ur going to a great school
The AA is a great school, but there are several myths about studios at the school. The bottom line is yes, there are a very limited number of studios. Very, very few students work in them because they have very few spaces. I worked in the studios for one term. They are often allocated to students who can prove that they do not have the facilities to work at home, or if you are willing to give your right arm or something. For instance, I was moving and my apt. was turned upside down for a term, so I requested a studio.
Because there are only a few desks, its highly unlikely you would work with anyone in your unit. So, there is essentially no studio culture at the school, at least in the US sense. The school promises more studios year after year, but don't count on it - London is £££, and the AA is housed in 2 small townhouses.
If you work alone well, I would say its a great set up. About 90% of the students work at home, and you meet with your tutors or the unit once or twice a week.
I would seriously advise you to investigate the course structure at the school before you attend. Studio is king, and your technical, theory and communications courses take the back burner. I think most students from the US find it to me more conceptual and artistic than practical, and its so theoretical you will either love it or hate it.
There are several threads on here about accreditation in the States from the AA or the UK. From what I gathered and from my own experience, its not easy at all. A lot of people just go back and get their Master's in the states because they lack the courses required. Having your drawings translated by NCARB is expensive and very time consuming (like as in years and years). So it all depends upon what your goals are as an architect.
My advice is... before you commit gather all the information you can. Its very different from US schools and can be a great experience. But, you need to make sure it is for you b/c London and the AA are very expensive. My advice: just know exactly what you are getting into.
I am not necessarily the type that loves to work at home... so that is the only thing that is holding me back. My favorite thing about undergrade was being in studio. It is either the AA or SCI-Arc and they seem to be on opposite ends of the spectrum in terms of studio culture.
To be perfectly honest, I found it very difficult to work alone. At the AA you work very independently of one another, and I missed the exchange of ideas with other students. I find it hard to keep your momentum up, especially late at night, when you're working alone. Others find it a very good way to work.
The courses at the AA and SCI-Arc are very similar, at least from what I saw at both schools. In fact, and probably as you know, SCI-Arc was founded on the principles of the AA. I can almost guarantee you 90% of your work at the AA will be done at home. What year did they offer you?
I went into the second year and left after the third because I came to the realization I was working my butt off, the technical education wasn't enough to qualify for my license in the US, the AA costs an arm and a leg, and people in the states could care less if I went to the AA or anywhere else. I do have to say the AA gave me a very intuitive design sense that has taken me very far in my current job. But, it didn't open any doors in the States per se.
Also, you should know the RIBA Part I and Part II are NOT the equivalent of a Master's in the states. They both have their pluses and minuses, but I found they are definately NOT equivalent degrees. Its best to study where you want to practice.
Its really about what you want. If you want to stay in London, go to the AA. If you want to stay in the states, go to SCI-Arc. If you want studios, go to SCI-Arc.
I faced a similar choice, between the AA, Parsons and SCI-Arc. In retrospect, I wish I had gone to SCI-Arc. Just personal experience though...
HOw does the AA compare to the Bartlett? Just went to the end of year exhibition and the work look interesting and complex. They had some beautiful Japanese style 3D extuded drawings, the drawing skills of the first year students were exceptional.
amanning,
i think remember you from the other grad school threads no?....it seems like you've had a hard time deciding between columbia, bartlett, sci-arc, and AA......all similar, but also very different schools. but if it's studio culture you want, SCI-Arc should be your choice....i've heard the same things as you read above....and just to reiterate: you will NOT see london if you are DRL, and it WILL cost you much more than the american schools.
also, i don't know where you want to live and work after, but grad school is in fact the place where you will make most of your professional connections, so take that into consideration...if that even matters to you.
one thing i have heard about the AA is studio space is incredibly limited is it also true that you have to rent the space you are using? I still see students working in groups there around the cafe/bar area, they also have a multi story building along tottenham court road with quite a few desks. This area is used during the summer school. I'd recommend living close to campus, the last thing you want to do is take your portfolio across london and get it damaged in the tube. The AA does have its advantages, you have the oppertunity to work with Peter Salter, but as mentioned before you have to be prepared for sleepless nights. I've found that the people running the workshops are really friendly and helpful.
Amanning...you need to clarify...which program are you going to? The Diploma school at the AA, or one of the graduate programs, like the DRL at the AA? That makes a big difference....
If you are going to diploma, then everything above is right. If you are going to DRL, then you do have studio space, it is just really cramped...you'll be at a different building than the main one...it is St.John's...and you'll be surrounded by all the other students from the DRL...I have a couple of friends that have been through the DRL program, and they all did their work in studio...
As for AA/Bartlett...the diploma schools are pretty similar, in the sense that the diploma unit masters really direct the nature of the work you'll do. There is a lot of variety to the work, and you'll have to be selective to tailor your experience....
can anyone comment on the question of money at the AA ? what's the tuition cost and what do they normally offer in the way of grants or scholarships or loans ? do they do anything to deflect the living costs of london ?
I'm really interested in the school but I'm a bit heartbroken at the prospect that only rich students can make it work.
get up to date![with your hearsay -- second hand -- old information and wives tales about the aa when your granny used to attend.....!]
for dips:
where studio space was limited in the past, its different this past year. most the dip programs at the AA have taken over morrell street building - not just the indiginous poor ones[thats sort of an oxymoron to use the word 'poor and AA' in one statement]. the school is gradually and actively trying to expand to adjacent buildings; 37 bedford square is where many of the seminars take place.
for grads:
the first term of the drl is a bit cramped as both phase i and phase ii students share the space. that being said -- i have never heard anyone complain about the grad studios at john street [except housing and environment share a space in the basement] from jan on - it works really well - open 8 - 11 - 7 days generally and does do 24 hours on occasion. 15-20 min walk to bedford sq. many seminar courses are here.
for phds:
dont even ask. its a real joke. all phds share one closet with a couple of oldest pentium II computers. oh but they have an a4 printer. yahoo.
there is no money for anyone at the aa so dont plan on it. or just a handful. your best to try to get private sponsorship.
and not everyone is rich. only most - or heavily in debt.
get the latest tuition cost on the website. when you get accepted you get a package:
first line: we are offering you a place.
next line and the remainder of 6 pages: and dont forget to send us lots and lots of money.
and if you havent forgotten - send us money.
and this is how much and how and where to send us money
ahhhhh, I love how the reality of architecture's socialist ideals is actually more like aristocracy......
sigh....
TED - I think that's an oversimplification...
thenewold -
I don't know if you'd be applying as an overseas student, but just to put things in perspective, check the fees that The Bartlett are charging if you are.
They might be a little lower, but still quite hefty. The difference is of course that everyone, including overseas, EU or UK students pay the same fee at the AA.
However, the AA does offer a few scholarships and bursaries. They also have a financial advisor who you can contact if/when you're accepted. If the AA is really where you want to go, then I wouldn't let money worries stand in the way...But of course, you have to be realistic and think about your future.
Lacking parental support or savings you're most likely looking at a mix of student loans (if available), scholarships (if you can get them), part time work and bank loans for the diploma. For something like DRL you might be able to get a professional loan or CDL if you're in the UK.
amanning - I can't answer your question, but it sounds a bit like you haven't visited the AA yet, despite having been accepted? I guess it's a bit late now if you have your place already and is all set to go, but I would definately have visited or communicated these questions to someone at the school directly before or whilst in the process of applying. Did you read the prospectus?
Also, the AA have several unit websites and a photolog you can check for impressions of school life, specifically this year's unit3. And there's the school blog here at archinect. Not the real thing obviously.
henrik, my response with regard to fees is based upon the so-called 'package' that the AA gives verse what the bartlett gives.
as far as i am concerned what the aa gave for admission package was exactly what i stated - no exageration. 6 pages of paying your fees.[i have both in front of me] it was an embarisment as far as i was concerned. one term has to in july. bartlett - no application fee - no prepaid fee.
first i heard of a financial advisor at the AA. the have a development office but thats not for students. i find out about potential funding sources by looking at the UCL web site than i ever got from any direct person at the AA. one only has to look at the AA web site to see what i mean. thats it. its not like going to a US school where they seriously seek out how to ease the cost of grad school.
but for non eu, there is little difference in fees between bartlett and aa.
while one could work in the lib [phd] for just above min wage at the aa, the bartlett offers more financial support in the way of actively [via a university wide department] seeking research funding. bartlett grad students also have some assistanships which are non-existant at the aa except for a small handfull [3] phd students teaching theory. unfortunately its not what the AA is about.
you can get US student loans to attend the AA [up to $18k per year]
i am not familiar with what henrik is speaking of with regard to uk loans but as your legal status in the uk ends at the end of the course i cant imagine banks here handing a temp foriegner money. it took most students i know 3-4 months just for the bank to give them a simple bank account.
i am not rich and am paying the fees myself and am heavily in debt.
Does anyone know how large the diploma school is? How many people are in each of the units?
I plan on applying next year to the diploma school for first year and I am wondering what the intellectual culture of the school is like. I will be visiting the school soon to check it out but I wouldn't mind knowing a little about the inner workings of the school before I go. Is all the talk I hear about AA being very experimental and allowing students significant freedom true - or is it just a lot of rhetoric?
I have heard the AA is similar to Columbia in the work the students produce. Any thoughts?
Any information would be most appreciated.
hi TED
This is for grad/DRL/phd programmes at the AA? - don't know why it would take 6 pages to explain how to pay your fees, but that does sound like a disappointing 'welcome package'.
Yes, the financial advisor is attached to the development office. I made an appointment and had a meeting on the advice of the admissions office and was not under the impression that this was a unique offer...
I agree, it takes a bit of hard work to become clear on funding - but keep in mind the European educational system is still very much based on the idea/illusion that education is (relatively) free - there isn't the long history and financial bodies in place to provide loans etc. that there is in the US. And hopefully it won't go that way! However, as the AA is a private school, I guess this excuse doesn't apply - but if you find that the website is lacking there's nothing to stop you from emailing or phoning the admissions office with your questions.
UK student loans and grants are available to UK and EU students who have resided in the UK for 3 years minimum. Contact the local LEA for uptodate information on what's available (I'd advice you to actually visit the LEA office in person - it helps) and how to apply.
And yeah, i wouldn't expect a UK bank to give you a loan if you're only here temporarily - I would apply for this in my native country (which makes sense if you're going back there at the end of your course anyway).
A professional loan is a package which most UK banks offer to postgrad students - they're aimed specifically at 'high income degrees' like medicine,law and business degrees. As with everything that has to do with banks, it depends on your personal circumstances if and how much you can get. AFAIK, they might also offer it to you if you're in the 4th year of an architectural degree.
A CDL - Career Development Loan - is a UK government scheme, which basically acts a channel for providing you with a bank loan of upto £8k, to help you finance a short degree (eg. a 1 year conversion or other fulltime education to enhance and develop your skills). I'd google this for details.
But again. most of this would not apply to say a US or Chinese (or whatever) student 'flying in' to study at the AA DRL.
The main point I was trying to get across is that it is not impossible - it's just hard work and a big commitment financially.
I guess i should point out that I'm currently not a student at the AA in case it sounds like I am.
henrik - forget the local council grants - it was somewhat available for undergrads but nothing else and omeone is feeding you bs if your entering grad and think you can get some bucks through them. undergrad [called intermediate /ba ] at the aa has some chance if as you say you have uk home status.
i will only conclude that there has never -- i repeat none what so ever - british national in the DRL since it began. this was announced to us the first day last sept. by brett [the drl portion] i believe this year there is only 1 uk national in the grad program complete and that person got a bursary [1 of 3 terms paid]. i dont know any other bursaries but their probably are.
for the dip studio size look at the web sites or pick up a projects review. all student names are listed. and that will give you some idea of the work.
dip units work on agendas. many units have unit masters that repeat year to year. so within the dip program you are working within a specific agenda which for dip students is great. still leaves lots of room for your creative wanking.
dip, undergrad and foundation are finished 7 july so you will miss meeting any studio groups. grad programs carry on with dissertations [generally independent work] through the summer and finish in end of sept .
end of year show runs 8 july - 28 july and over takes the school. all are welcome.
well, to underline my earlier concern, the financial situation here, and in truth at American universities also, translates into a situation where the rich are heavily favored. and I'm really wondering if anyone else sees this as a problem. it seems a little like a pink elephant that everyone sees but won't acknowledge.
is it at all fair that the fee schedule is equal for students who will never have to think twice about money and students who will literaly loose sleep and probably cry sometimes over the debt they'll incure to strive to reach the highest levels of what they love?
at least in america, it seems totally 'un-american' that the students who have to work hardest to find money and enter expensive schools should also be the ones who will suffer most. for a lot of really motivated people, the really great programs at the AA or the GSD or columbia are effectively out of reach.
re: thenewold
i don't understand why you are concerned about the financial implications of going to the AA.
it is what it is. no one is forcing anyone to go there. the fact that a large number of people choose to go to the AA as opposed to less expensive options is a marker of its status and the experience gained for a fee (however large). and unlike the financial transcation undrtaken by many who go to Harvard GSD [ you pays your money so that you have the name on your CV under the economic allure that it will get you a higher paying job so that you can pay off the big loan you took to go to the GSD ], the AA is about what kind of a particular education you get. and the network of people and visitors you make contact with.
no one - from the chairman on down to the teaching staff to the admin staff - make any real money by working at the AA. the fees are in direct proportion to the costs of being in central London, to having a lecture series that has more relevant and interesting visitors and guests in a week than most schools have in a semester, and to having a range of exhibitions, events and publications that continue to impact on current architectural thought after 35 years.
the school received no grants from central government, it doesn't have an endowment, it doesn't have a wealthy patron, it doesn't fund a football or basketball team; it is just an important school.
it is a fair school for people who do fair work. the AA is quite happy to take the money of rich but mediocre students and keep them around to help subsidise those who have less financial resources but lots of talent and potential.
it would be a better, even more diverse school if the fees were lower or supported by the government, but the one thing the AA has that no American school has is it's profound independence from any outside control. that is the price that students pay
i dont regret any debt i incurred while at the AA - it is well, well worth the fee; nothing is comparable to US schools or other places in the world. i will miss it when i go.
hey TED, hi. you still have the house? no, i don't want to buy it.
my little love nest?-- of course it only took 15 years to complete - its paying for school[via loan] but i havent rented it yet. its for 100% done - not certain most architects can ever say that about where they live -- the midwest is mighty pretty this time of year....and [forget the cubs] the white sox will be back to capture the world series again -- but i dont think i will ever go back -- i really love londontown. but i miss my little abode. oh well - life isnt perfect!
I'm gonna be at the AA (DRL) this september/October... I'm just hoping on getting some part time job to survive.
meanwhile, the girlfriend has decided to move to London with me so as to work (full time) and support me ..( now isn't that nice of her !!). And she's already aware of the kind of lifestyle i'll be leading (ie; she'll hardly see me)
So I'm gonna be looking out for jobs suitable for accountancy/ finance line for her.
TED...so are you in the DRL? If you are...which group? I have a friend there....
thnaks for all the great info... I have visited the AA and I will be a DRL student if I choose to go. Yes I have had a hard time deciding between a few schools. The AA was my first pick, but I really love the studio culture the US schools seem to have. I feel like the AA lacks that. I have previously lived in London, but only for the summer. 16 months would be quite different. I did love it though.
I have a substantial scholarship to SCI-Arc and have actually worked for Moss before. I feel like I have a pretty clear picture of what SCI-Arc will be, and I love LA!
I am supposed to speak with Yusuke Wednesday morning and hopefully that will aid my decision. A part of me really wants to go, but the other part of me is so afraid that I will feel so disconnected and be working alone all the time. Unfortunately I am not the most self motivated person.
Anyone have some more info about DRL?
Also, my goal is to teach. I already have my five year professional degree and I have completed most of my IDP credits.
One more thing....
The Bartlett is 15,500 (pds) and the AA is around 19,500 (pds) At Bartlett hardly anyone at all works in the studio and they only come into school to meet with their professors once a week.
Really exciting work and impressive. VERY threoretical and not very applicable. I didn't really like how they worked on the same project all year long and that was the only thing they did.... other than attend lectures at the AA.
Bartlett's 15,500 pounds is for a 12 month M.arch? ...
AA's 20,150 pounds ( aprox .. and not 19,500) is for a 16 month M.arch
I'd prefer the 16 month program
if sci-arc is a free ride then hard to compare-
diaz lectured at the aa this year and i was so unimpressed. he said 40% of the grad students at sci-arc go on to work in the movie industry.
aa is agenda based - diaz it was about form. youd never see brett steele lecturing with the hog wash that diaz tried to get by with.
I'll be at emtech grad. programme in aa too but looks like im gonna spend more than one year there cuz I want to attend diploma too..my undergrad degree was int. architecture which is also the worst mistake of my life ever :lol
starbucks was giving you 5.5 gbp for an hour while i was in london last summer...not bad as an extra income too :)
That's appalling - you get £6.70 per hour as a student assistant at the AA.
amanning...I'm in the Bartlett program right now...I chose it over the AA's DRL program, mainly because I wasn't that interested in the adaptive environments research that the DRL was focusing on...but they are now into a three year period of research into parametric design...so, know that, if you are headed that way, you'll be looking into that topic....
To be quite honest...if I was in your position now, i'd probably just go to the AA...not to necessarily knock my program...but the Bartlett is really know for what they do in their diploma units...
Anyone from the US moving to London in September... I am wondering how many other Americans to expect in the program... I suspect there will only be 2 or three.
Hey amanning ,
I am a current student of DRL. I'd like to give you some info about DRL.
Firstly, you can find some useful info from new DRL website (it is coming soon). Secondly, you can review our project from AA project review link.
Personally, I enjoy this programme very well. I think, beside of design, the hard core in DRL is teamwork. You have to learn how to cooperate with your team-mates who from different country in the world. You don’t have too much opportunity t change team. It is not easy to integrate three or four people’s idea. We all are struggling with that how to make teamwork efficient. You are from US, so you don have communication problem. That is fine:);.
Anyway, this kind of teamwork is not a typical teamwork that all teammates work with a teamleader. You have to defence your idea, and try to organize your work by yourself.
About part-time job, I think that is very difficult, cuz you have to work with you team. You time is not really control by yourself. The life in DRL is very very busy.
Looking forward to meet you in AA.
Thanks for the information. I can't wait to get to London and start the program. I know that I have a very challenging and I am sure rewarding 16 months in front of me.
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