Barcelona is preparing to become World Capital of Architecture in 2026. In this context, IAAC – Advanced Architecture Barcelona opens a new academic stage that redefines how education can respond to today’s global challenges.

For more than twenty years, IAAC has acted as a laboratory where ideas once considered experimental: digital fabrication, robotics, bio-based materials, artificial intelligence – have moved to the centre of architectural practice. With its renewed academic offer, IAAC continues to prototype the future by preparing a new generation of architects and designers to confront the pressing challenges of our time.

“At IAAC, we don’t wait for the future to come – we prototype it. What once seemed experimental is now central to the design disciplines. Our mission is clear: to tackle the key challenges of our time and prepare the next generation of architects and designers to become architects of change and lead with creativity and technological expertise.” – Daniel Ibáñez, Director of IAAC.

Master in Advanced Architecture

The flagship programme of IAAC, now celebrating its 25th anniversary. It offers a tailored educational path where students can specialise in areas such as urbanism, robotics and bio-based materials. With its hands-on methodology, the programme bridges research, prototyping and practice in Barcelona’s vibrant innovation ecosystem.

Master in Ecological Architecture and Advanced Construction

An immersive experience at IAAC’s Valldaura Campus, a self-sufficient environment in the Collserola Natural Park. Here, students live and learn within the ecosystem they are designing for, experimenting with bio-based materials, mass timber and regenerative strategies through large-scale prototypes.

Master in AI for Architecture and Business Innovation

An entrepreneurial programme placing artificial intelligence at the core of both design and business creation. Students learn how AI is a transformative force, developing ventures and business models that reshape the intersection of architecture, technology and industry.

Master in Advanced Computational Design for Architecture

A global online programme connecting students from around the world in real time. Focused on algorithms, data-driven design and new digital workflows, it equips participants to lead the digital transformation of the AEC sector.

Design through Fab Lab Barcelona

The design experience at IAAC now takes place through Fab Lab Barcelona, with the Master in Design for Emergent Futures, co-organized with Elisava. The programme positions design as a tool for social, ecological and technological transitions, while showcasing the lab’s global leadership in digital fabrication and open-source culture.

“Each of our programmes embodies a unique way of living the IAAC experience – tailored, immersive, entrepreneurial and online. What connects them all is a hands-on and future-oriented approach, rooted in experimentation.”– Areti Markopoulou, Academic Director of IAAC

Looking Ahead

With this new academic era, IAAC reinforces its role as an international centre for research, education and innovation dedicated to prototyping the future. Applications for the 2026–2027 academic year are now open, with an upcoming Open Day inviting prospective students to discover the programmes and meet IAAC’s faculty.

Join our Virtual Open Day on November 6th and discover what it means to become an architect of change.

Register now!