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MaCAD02Master in Advanced Computation for Architecture and Design + Thesis

Tuition fee €12,200 one-time

Tuitoin fees do not include an enrolment deposit of 2,800€ required to secure your place in the programme after being offered an acceptance. The enrolment deposit is non-refundable.

Application fee €50 one-time
Deposit €2,800 one-time

Non refundable

More information

iaac.net/..rammes/masters-programmes/macad 

Overview

The Master in Advanced Computation for Architecture & Design (MACAD) is a pioneering online programme designed to train architects, engineers, and designers with the most advanced computational skills that the AEC industry demands today.

Students can choose to follow the programme in either a synchronous or asynchronous format, depending on their time zone or personal schedule, based on tutorials, lectures, and mentoring group sessions.

Synchronous format
In the synchronous format, students attend live lectures and mentoring sessions using video-conferencing and collaborative tools like Zoom. The day begins with live mentoring sessions, where faculty and students review exercises and project development based on the previous week’s content. After this, new lecture material is presented live to the class. Throughout the day, students can work on individual submissions, interact with peers, or collaborate in groups using the online campus tools and chat rooms.

Asynchronous format
In the asynchronous format, lectures and tutorials are recorded and shared daily. After watching these, students join live mentoring sessions via video conference to ask questions, review their work, and discuss project development. For the remainder of the day, students can work independently and interact with the MaCAD class, using the online campus platform which includes forums and chat rooms.

Programme structure

The MaCAD 02 Applied Research Programme provides students with the opportunity to extend their studies to develop their own Thesis. During MaCAD 02 , students work for an additional three months module, focussing on the investigation of one applied research or pilot project, taking the knowledge received in MaCAD 01 into a practical ground. The aim of the MaCAD 02 is to bridge the gap between education, research & practice, with the guidance of leaders from top experts in the field and the support of industrial partners. In parallel to the development of the Thesis, the second year of MaCAD offers a series of seminars enhancing the theoretical, practical and computational skills of the students.

Module 1

This module serves as a foundation for the second year, preparing students to undertake their thesis project through a structured approach in research and the use of technological tools. It consists of three key courses. The Master Research project focuses on laying the foundations for the final thesis. Students will develop a conceptual framework that will form the backbone of their future project, ensuring clear direction and academic rigour. Students will be introduced to the techniques and methodologies essential for carrying out applied research. From understanding how to formulate research questions to exploring various methods of data collection and analysis, students will learn how to use advanced research technologies to improve their process, from data collection to project presentation. This module provides the basis for developing a complete and well-founded final thesis, combining theoretical knowledge with advanced design tools.

Courses:

Master Thesis Research Project – 12 ECTS
Research and Methods – 3 ECTS
Applied research technologies – 3 ECTS


Module 2

At this stage, students move from planning and conceptualization to the practical execution of their thesis project. Throughout their own Thesis development, students will apply the theoretical knowledge acquired and the technologies investigated to build and implement a functional solution that addresses real challenges within the design field. In this module, students will meet with individual Thesis Faculty Advisor to be guided through the Thesis work until its digital submission and live presentation.

Course:

Master Thesis Development Project – 12 ECTS

To learn more about MACAD ´s academic structure, courses, faculty and career prospectus please visit our ¨website¨:https://iaac.net/educational-programmes/masters-programmes/macad/

Apply now! Academic year 2025/26
This is a rolling intake - applications are accepted all year round.
Studies commence
1 Oct 2025
Apply now! Academic year 2025/26
This is a rolling intake - applications are accepted all year round.
Studies commence
1 Oct 2025