Master in Architecture and Heritage at University of Naples Federico II
Two-year English-taught LM-4 master's at Federico II in central Naples, built around four design studios on architectural, archaeological, urban and landscape heritage, with a compulsory internship.
Master
2 years
Naples
English
University of Naples Federico II
Architecture and Heritage (ARCHER) is a two-year, 120 ECTS master's degree (class LM-4) taught in English at the University of Naples Federico II. Entry needs a bachelor's that covers the core of an Italian architecture degree (class L-17), English at B2, a minimum level of Italian and, for non-EU applicants, a portfolio and interview. Fees follow family income, so it can be tuition-free for eligible students.
Entry requirements
Detailed entry requirements
Architecture and Heritage asks for a bachelor's degree in Architectural Sciences (Italian class L-17) or a degree that covers its core credits in design, history, representation, planning, technology and structures, English at B2, a minimum level of Italian, and a positive check of your preparation through a merit review and interview, with a portfolio for non-EU applicants. Reviewed 8 October 2026. [1]
Degree and the L-17 credit core
You need a bachelor's degree in Architectural Sciences (Italian class L-17), or a three-year degree or foreign qualification in which the essential learning activities of the L-17 degree are completed. The regulations treat this as a curricular requirement that cannot be waived, in line with EU rules for training architects. [1]
The minimum credits are: [1]
- 24 CFU in architectural and urban design (ICAR/14).
- 16 CFU in history of architecture (ICAR/18).
- 12 CFU in architectural representation: drawing, surveying and cartography (ICAR/06, ICAR/17).
- 12 CFU in urban design and planning (ICAR/20, ICAR/21).
- 12 CFU in building technology and construction (ICAR/10, ICAR/11, ICAR/12).
- 8 CFU in maths and computing for architecture (INF/01, ING-INF/05, MAT/03 and MAT/05 to MAT/09).
- 8 CFU in physics and building services (FIS/01, ING-IND/10, ING-IND/11).
- 8 CFU in structural analysis and design (ICAR/07, ICAR/08, ICAR/09).
- 4 CFU in restoration (ICAR/19) and 4 CFU in appraisal (ICAR/22).
Any curricular gaps must be filled before enrolment. Access is not capped by a local quota. [1]
What this means for your transcript
Italian CFU and the credits on a foreign transcript are not the same unit: one CFU stands for 25 hours of student work, and the commission looks at the subjects on your transcript, not just your total. [1] As a guide, based on the rule above:
- Usually a fit: a B.Arch, which usually covers design studios, history of architecture, drawing, structures and building technology across these areas.
- Check carefully: a B.Tech or B.E. in Civil Engineering, or a B.Plan, which can cover structures, maths, surveying or planning but is often short of the 24 CFU in architectural design and the 16 CFU in architectural history.
- Often short: a B.Des, B.Sc., BCA, B.Com, BBA or BA, which rarely covers the architectural design, history and structures blocks.
English and Italian
You need English at CEFR level B2 or higher, proven with a certificate from a body recognised by the Italian Ministry of University and Research. The regulations and the application rules do not list specific tests or minimum scores. [1][2] Federico II notes that an international certificate such as IELTS, TOEFL or Cambridge also helps with the study visa. [5]
The course also expects a minimum level of Italian. If your level is found insufficient during the interview, the regulations direct you to include Italian language activities in your studies. [1]
Selection and interview
There is no written entrance test for international applicants, and access is not capped. Your preparation is checked through a merit review of your bachelor's final mark and the study plan you followed, and through an interview on the basic knowledge the programme needs. [1]
Non-EU applicants should expect to be contacted for an interview before receiving a pre-admission letter. Italian citizens must also have passed the national admission test for architecture degrees. [1][2]
Documents and portfolio
Non-EU applicants upload these documents to the course's online application as early as possible: [2]
- Passport.
- Bachelor's degree in architecture, and transcripts of courses and exams.
- An English certificate at CEFR B2 or higher.
- A letter of recommendation from a teacher, addressed specifically to the ARCHER course, which may be verified.
- A letter of motivation.
- A portfolio of no more than 20 pages, clearly showing design work on built heritage and landscape.
For enrolment, Federico II asks for a declaration of value from the Italian embassy in the country where you obtained your degree, or a statement from an ENIC-NARIC centre such as CIMEA. [5]
2026/27 deadlines
For 2026/27, non-EU applicants had to submit their Universitaly pre-enrolment, with the ARCHER pre-admission letter, by 31 May 2026. Federico II's general pre-enrolment deadline for non-EU applicants was 15 June 2026, and visa applications had to be filed at Italian embassies or consulates by 30 November 2026. [2][5]
- First enrolment: by 31 December 2026.
- Late enrolment: international students who have not enrolled by 31 December 2026 can enrol by 31 March 2027 if they earn at least 8 CFU in the first semester through contract enrolment.
The 2027/28 dates are not yet published. [2]
Sources and verification
Checked by the ApplyAZ admissions team against the university's official documents listed below. Entry rules can change with each new call, and we re-check them before every application.
- University of Naples Federico II, Polytechnic and Basic Sciences School, Department of Architecture (DiARC). Teaching regulations of the Master's degree programme in Architecture and Heritage (ARCHER, class LM-4), in force from academic year 2025/26. Reviewed 8 October 2026.
- University of Naples Federico II, Department of Architecture. ARCHER application rules, academic year 2026/27. Reviewed 8 October 2026.
- University of Naples Federico II, Department of Architecture. ARCHER didactic path for students enrolled in academic year 2026/27, with the internship, venue and After ARCHER pages. Reviewed 8 October 2026.
- University of Naples Federico II. Enrolment guide: fees, exemptions and master's enrolment rules, academic year 2026/27. Reviewed 8 October 2026.
- University of Naples Federico II, International Office. Admission regulation for EU and non-EU students, academic year 2026/27. Reviewed 8 October 2026.
About the programme
Architecture and Heritage, known as ARCHER, is a two-year master's degree (laurea magistrale, class LM-4) worth 120 ECTS and taught in English by the Department of Architecture (DiARC) of the University of Naples Federico II.
It trains architects with specific skills in the design, conservation, maintenance, enhancement and management of architectural, urban and landscape heritage.
Teaching takes place in the Spirito Santo complex on Via Toledo, in the historic centre of Naples, close to metro lines 1 and 2. The course suits architecture graduates who want to work with historic buildings, archaeological sites and cultural landscapes.
What you will study
Each of the four semesters is built around an interdisciplinary design studio on a real cultural site in the region, run with the institutions that protect and manage Italian heritage. The 2026/27 plan includes: [3]
- Design Studio for Architectural Heritage (24 ECTS): architectural design theory, statics and stability of historical buildings, technological design, conservation, and 3D digital survey for heritage
- Critical Knowledge of Architectural Heritage (8 ECTS): art history, architectural history and research methodology
- Design Studio for Archaeological Heritage (22 ECTS): design for archaeology, archaeological conservation, structural rehabilitation, energy and environmental sustainability, exhibition design and museography
- Design Studio for Urban Heritage (18 ECTS): urban design, urban conservation, urban history and planning for the historic city
- Heritage Management (8 ECTS): multidimensional evaluation of cultural heritage and administrative law for planning and heritage
- Design Studio for Landscape (20 ECTS): landscape design, landscape protection, territorial planning, environmental design and landscape architecture
- Elective activities (8 ECTS), further training activities and a thesis (8 ECTS)
How the programme is taught
Knowledge of the site and on-site analysis sit at the heart of the course, and students work through the design process at several scales.
A compulsory curricular internship in year two (75 hours, 3 ECTS, over at least three months) can take place inside the university, at municipalities, heritage superintendencies or architecture firms affiliated with Federico II, or abroad as an Erasmus+ traineeship. [3]
Career paths
Graduates are qualified to work in all fields of design, from interiors to buildings, cities and territories, with particular strength in cultural heritage.
According to the department, the degree gives access to work as an architect across EU countries, where heritage is a major field of employment.
It also leads to further study at Federico II, including the School of Specialisation in Architectural Heritage and Landscape, five university master's courses and a PhD programme.
Fees and scholarships
At Federico II, university contributions depend on family income.
Under Federico II's 2026/27 enrolment guide, students who are citizens of non-EU countries are fully exempt from the university contribution. They pay only the regional right-to-study tax of €130, €151 or €173, set by income band (€151 for students whose family lives abroad), and €16 stamp duty. [4]
ADISURC, the Campania regional body, awards income-based scholarships to enrolled students. The course can be tuition-free for eligible students.
How to apply from outside the EU
Non-EU applicants upload their passport, architecture degree, transcripts, B2 English certificate, a teacher's recommendation letter addressed to ARCHER, a motivation letter and a portfolio of up to 20 pages to the course's online application as early as possible. [2]
You will probably be interviewed before receiving a pre-admission letter. For 2026/27, the Universitaly application with that letter had to be submitted by 31 May 2026. The 2027/28 dates are not yet published. [2]
First enrolment for 2026/27 is open until 31 December 2026. International students who have not enrolled by then can enrol by 31 March 2027 if they earn at least 8 CFU in the first semester through contract enrolment. You enrol with a declaration of value or an ENIC-NARIC statement such as CIMEA's. [2][5]
How ApplyAZ helps
ApplyAZ is an Italy-based consultancy that works only with public universities. We can include this programme in a shortlist of 20 to 30 English-taught programmes that fit your profile, so your plan never rests on a single application.
For eligible students who start with us, a named person owns each stage, from A to Z:
- We check your transcript against Federico II's entry rules for this programme.
- We write your CV and a tailored statement of purpose.
- We prepare and submit your online application with portfolio, interview preparation and Universitaly pre-enrolment.
- We help you declare your family income for reduced fees and file your ADISURC Campania scholarship application at the right time and in the right format.
- We prepare your visa file.
With operations in all 20 Italian regions, we follow each region's scholarship rules and deadlines as they change. The university decides admission, the region decides the scholarship and the consulate decides the visa, so no one can promise an outcome. You pay in milestones, and every service you pay for is either delivered or its fee is refunded (terms apply).
Programmes at Italian public universities can be tuition-free for eligible students. Check if you are eligible and book a one-to-one consultation session with one of our Italy experts, or see how ApplyAZ works.
Questions and answers
What bachelor's degree do I need for Architecture and Heritage at Federico II?
A bachelor's in Architectural Sciences (Italian class L-17) or a degree that covers its core: at least 24 CFU in architectural design, 16 in architectural history, 12 each in representation, planning and building technology, and set credits in maths, physics, structures, restoration and appraisal. [1]
Is ARCHER taught in English?
Yes. The whole programme is taught in English and needs English at CEFR B2. The regulations also expect a minimum level of Italian; if it is found insufficient at interview, you add Italian language activities to your studies. The thesis is written and defended in English. [1]
Is there an entrance exam?
No written test for international applicants. The commission reviews your bachelor's final mark and study plan, and non-EU applicants should expect an interview before a pre-admission letter is issued. [1][2]
What English level is required? Do I need IELTS?
English at CEFR B2 or higher, with a certificate from a body recognised by the Italian ministry. The course does not list specific tests or scores, so we check which certificate your file can use. Federico II notes that an IELTS, TOEFL or Cambridge certificate also helps with the visa. [1][5]
Do I need a portfolio?
Yes. Non-EU applicants send a portfolio of no more than 20 pages, clearly showing design work on built heritage and landscape, together with a teacher's recommendation letter addressed to ARCHER and a motivation letter. [2]
When is the deadline for non-EU students?
For 2026/27, the Universitaly application with the ARCHER pre-admission letter was due by 31 May 2026. First enrolment closes on 31 December 2026, with late enrolment to 31 March 2027 under conditions. The 2027/28 dates are not yet published. [2]
I have a B.Tech in Civil Engineering or a B.Plan. Can I apply?
Possibly, but check carefully. The L-17 core is a fixed requirement, and civil engineering or planning degrees are often short of the 24 CFU in architectural design and 16 CFU in architectural history. Gaps must be filled before enrolment, so we review your transcript first. [1]
What careers does it lead to?
After the Italian State Examination, graduates can work as architects, including across the EU, with particular strength in the design, conservation and management of architectural, urban and landscape heritage. Federico II also offers a heritage specialisation school, five related master's courses and a PhD. [1][3]
Can someone handle my whole application to Architecture and Heritage at Federico II?
Yes. ApplyAZ, an Italy-based consultancy that works only with public universities, checks your transcript against Federico II's rules for this programme, handles the application and Universitaly pre-enrolment, helps you file the ADISURC Campania scholarship application at the right time and in the right format, and prepares your visa file, for eligible students. Start by checking your eligibility.
I'm applying from India. What is the route into Architecture and Heritage?
A recognised Indian B.Arch is the closest match, provided its subjects cover the Italian L-17 architecture core: architectural design, architectural history, representation, planning, building technology, structures and the other listed areas. You also need English at B2, a portfolio of heritage and landscape work and an interview for the pre-admission letter, then Universitaly pre-enrolment. [1][2] Indian students apply for the type D study visa at the Italian embassy or consulate that covers their state, such as New Delhi, Mumbai or Bengaluru.
Is the route different from Pakistan, Bangladesh or Sri Lanka?
No. The academic rules for Architecture and Heritage are the same whatever your nationality. Applicants from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka follow the same steps as India: online application, interview, pre-admission letter and Universitaly pre-enrolment, then a type D study visa from the Italian mission for their country of residence. Read our guide for students in Dhaka.
I live in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman or Bahrain. Where do I apply for the visa?
At the Italian embassy or consulate responsible for the country where you legally live, after Universitaly pre-enrolment. The academic rules for Architecture and Heritage are the same whatever your nationality, and Gulf residents follow the same steps: online application, interview, pre-admission letter and Universitaly pre-enrolment. Read our guides for Dubai, Riyadh and Doha.
I'm applying from the UK, US, Canada, Singapore or Malaysia. Is anything different?
The academic rules are identical. Non-EU applicants who live abroad, including citizens of these countries, follow the same route: online application, interview, pre-admission letter and Universitaly pre-enrolment, then a type D study visa. Read our guides for London, New York, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur.
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