The Joint Master of Architecture (JMA) was created in 2005 as a Master’s programme organized jointly by the Bern University of Applied Sciences (BFH) and the University of Applied Sciences Western Switzerland (HES-SO).

Accredited by the Swiss Confederation, the programme is recognised as equivalent to other Swiss and European university programmes. The title of Master of Arts in Architecture BFH/HES-SO (120 ECTS credits) awarded at the end of the four semesters of study gives direct access to the Swiss Architects Registry A.

1 master,
2 schools,
3 partner sites

Teaching is provided by the architecture departments of three partner sites:

• the Department of Architecture, Wood and Civil Engineering of the Bern University of Applied Sciences (BFH-AHB)
• the Fribourg School of Engineering and Architecture
  (HES-SO – HEIA-FR)
• the Geneva School of Landscape, Engineering and Architecture
  (HES-SO – HEPIA).

Structured as a network and characterised by a transdisciplinary, multilingual and intercultural approach, the instruction offered within the JMA builds on the training provided in the HES Bachelor programme in architecture. Its main aim is to further develop students’ personal skills in order to increase their capacity for reflection and extend their field of action.

A recognised stakeholder in higher education in architecture in Switzerland, JMA maintains close links with national and international academic circles, applied research and the world of professional practice.