Master in Advanced Computation for Architecture & Design

INTRODUCTION

The Master in Advanced Computation for Architecture & Design – MaCAD is a unique online programme training a new generation of architects, engineers and designers with the skills that the industry of Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) demands nowadays.

The programme provides expertise in the application of the latest digital softwares for design simulation, analysis and optimisation of digital data in architecture, offering a broad and advanced theoretical and practical knowledge of computational design.

Based on a Data Driven, Learning by doing and Design by Research methodology, the master offers a unique online educational experience.

In contrast to the traditional Online programs, the Master in Advanced Computation for Architecture & Design offers a real-class “virtual” environment, based on a continuous, interactive and collaborative learning process.

Applications for the academic year 2025/26 are now open!

	MaCAD01	MaCAD02
Degree	The Master in Advanced Computation for Architecture & Design I is accredited by University of Lleida (UdL) – European Higher Education Area (EHEA)	The Master in Advanced Computation for Architecture & Design II is accredited by University of Lleida (UdL) – European Higher Education Area (EHEA)
Edition	6th edition	1st edition
Credits	60 ECTS	90 ECTS
Duration	October 2025 to July 2026 (9 months – first two weeks of July included for final submissions)	October 2025 to December 2026 (12 months – summer break from mid July to September included)
Format	Online (synchronous or asynchronous)	Online (synchronous or asynchronous)
Language	English	English
Tuition Fee	12,000€	15,000€

* Tuition fee includes a non-refundable programme enrollment fee of 2.800€

	Postgraduate in Advanced Computation for Environmental and Structural Design
Degree	Postgraduate Diploma by School of Professional and Executive Development at the Polytechnic University of Catalonia – European Higher Education Area (EHEA)
Edition	1st edition
Credits	15 ECTS
Duration	3 months // October 2021 – December 2021
Format	Online (synchronous or asynchronous)
Language	English
Tuition Fee	3.800€
	Postgraduate in Building Information Modelling and Smart Construction
Degree	Postgraduate Diploma by School of Professional and Executive Development at the Polytechnic University of Catalonia – European Higher Education Area (EHEA)
Edition	1st edition
Credits	15 ECTS
Duration	3 months // January 2022 – March 2022
Format	Online (synchronous or asynchronous)
Language	English
Tuition Fee	3.800€
	Postgraduate in Artificial Intelligence in Architecture
Degree	Postgraduate Diploma by School of Professional and Executive Development at the Polytechnic University of Catalonia – European Higher Education Area (EHEA)
Edition	2nd edition
Credits	15 ECTS
Duration	3 months // April 2022 – June 2022
Format	Online (synchronous or asynchronous)
Language	English
Tuition Fee	3.800€

As an alternative to the MaCAD full program, students can apply to each module independently to obtain a University Expert diploma, each one accredited with 15 ECTS.

	Module 1 (Advanced Computation for Environmental and Structural Design)	Module 2 (Building Information Modelling and Smart Construction)	Module 3 (Artificial Intelligence in Architecture)
Degree	University Expert in Advanced Computation for Environmental and Structural Design by University of Lleida (UdL) – European Higher Education Area (EHEA)	University Expert in Building Information Modelling and Smart Construction by University of Lleida (UdL) – European Higher Education Area (EHEA)	University Expert in Artificial Intelligence in Architecture by University of Lleida (UdL) – European Higher Education Area (EHEA)
Edition	3rd edition	3rd edition	3rd edition
Credits	15 ECTS	15 ECTS	15 ECTS
Duration	3 months // October 2024 – December 2024	3 months // January 2025 – March 2025	3 months // April 2025 – June 2025
Format	Online (synchronous or asynchronous)	Online (synchronous or asynchronous)	Online (synchronous or asynchronous)
Language	English	English	English
Tuition Fee	4.500€	4.500€	4.500€

STUDENT PROFILE

If you want to continue your education online and take part in a complete master programme, based on collaborative work and interactive learning, then the Master in Advanced Computation for Architecture & Design – MaCAD is made for you

The programme invites all Architects, Designers and Engineers who want to become experts in Advanced Computation and lead the change in the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry.

Students of the MACAD will learn new tools and methodologies, by working alongside leading experts and faculty. The programme offers an innovative educational structure that puts the students’ needs and creativity at the centre.

Applicants are expected to have some previous knowledge of 3D Modelling,, Grasshopper, Rendering and Programming. IAAC offers precourses in these softwares in case applicants don’t have experience. Applicants will be assigned and complete precourse content before the beginning of their studies.

PROFESSIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

On the one hand, working in a “virtual class” environment, students have the possibility to interact with faculty and colleagues in a highly professional context getting ready for the operational and working model of a professional practice. On the other hand, a series of industries and international offices, connected with IAAC and MaCAD offer in an annual basis internship positions and job opportunities for IAAC Alumni.

ACADEMIC STRUCTURE - MaCAD 01

The Master in Advanced Computation for Architecture & Design (MaCAD01) provides a unique online educational experience rooted in data-driven, learning-by-doing, and design-by-research methodologies. The programme is organised into three terms consisting of core modules, each concentrating on critical aspects of advanced computational design, including environmental analysis, structural optimization, building information modelling, and the application of artificial intelligence in architectural practice.

Module 1 - Advanced Computation for Environmental and Structural Design

The Advanced Computation for Environmental and Structural Design (ACESD) module focuses on a design paradigm informed by environmental analysis and structural optimisation. Students will gain expertise in the latest software and tools for environmental simulation and structural optimisation at various design scales, from individual buildings to urban developments, equipping them with the skills to create cutting-edge, environmentally responsive architecture.

Courses:

Environmental and Structural Design – Theory – 3 ECTS
Environmental and Structural Design – Studio – 3 ECTS
Digital Tools for Environmental Analysis – Seminar – 3 ECTS
Digital Tools for Structural Optimization – Seminar – 3 ECTS
Digital Tools for Complex Forming – Seminar – 3 ECTS

Module 2 - Building Information Modelling and Smart Construction

The Building Information Modelling and Smart Construction (BIMSC) module focuses on the recent BIM paradigm, covering three key aspects: Integrative Modelling, Collaborative Workflows, and Cloud-Based Data Management in Design. In this module, you will learn the most advanced tools to address the ubiquitous challenges architects face today.

Courses:

BIM and Smart Construction – Theory – 3 ECTS
BIM and Smart Construction – Studio – 3 ECTS
Digital Tools for Integrative Modelling – Seminar – 3 ECTS
Digital Tools for Collaborative Workflows – Seminar – 3 ECTS
Digital Tools for Cloud Data Management – Seminar – 3 ECTS

Module 3 - Artificial Intelligence in Architecture

The Artificial Intelligence in Architecture (AIA) module provides theoretical and practical knowledge in using the most effective tools for design through machine learning and AI. In this course, you will learn cutting-edge techniques to assist or fully automate design at various levels.

Courses:

Artificial Intelligence in Architecture – Theory – 3 ECTS
Artificial Intelligence in Architecture – Studio – 3 ECTS
Digital Tools for Generative AI – Seminar – 3 ECTS
Digital Tools for Data Encoding – Seminar – 3 ECTS
Digital Tools for Graph Machine Learning – Seminar – 3 ECTS

ACADEMIC STRUCTURE - MaCAD 02

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

THE MaCAD ONLINE EXPERIENCE

AN ONLINE REAL-CLASS ENVIRONMENT

In contrast to the traditional Online programs and tutorials, the Master in Advanced Computation for Architecture & Design offers a real-class “virtual” environment, based on a continuous, interactive and collaborative learning process.

The MaCAD is not an solitary experience, as the program gives the possibility to be part of a selected group of international students, seamlessly connected thanks to the most advanced platform for video-conferencing and collaborative working.

The limited number of students (a maximum of 25 per course) ensures that each student can be rigorous and continuously followed by the faculty and the academic coordination team, with dedicated hours for academic counselling and administrative support.

FLEXIBLE SCHEDULE

Students can choose to follow the program in Synchronous or Asynchronous format, according to their time-zone or their personal schedule, and based on tutorials and lectures + mentoring group sessions.

> In the Synchronous format, students follow the lectures and live mentoring sessions using a video-conference and collaborative work tool (ZOOM). The day starts with the live mentoring group sessions with the faculty and the other students to review the students’ work and project development based on the previous week’s lectures and tutorials. After the live mentoring, a new lecture content is presented live to the class.

During the rest of the day, students can work on individual submission, interact with their colleagues or collaborate in groups counting on the online campus tools and chat rooms.

SYNCHRONOUS CALENDAR

EUROPE and AFRICA - MORNINGS

Central European Time (CET) // West Africa Time
Live Group Mentoring – 10.00am to 11.00am
Lectures & Tutorials – 11.00am to 13.00pm

–

East European Time // Central Africa Time (+1)
Live Group Mentoring – 11.00am to 12.00pm
Lectures & Tutorials – 12.00pm to 2.00pm

–

Russia // Turkey // East Africa Time (+1)
Live Group Mentoring – 11.00am to 12.00pm
Lectures & Tutorials – 12.00pm to 2.00pm

*Please note that final schedule might slightly change and could vary according to local daylight savings time

ASIA and OCEANIA - AFTERNOONS

INDIA time (+3.5)
Live Group Mentoring – 1:30pm – 2:30pm
Lectures & Tutorials – 2.30pm – 4.30pm

–

CHINA time // West Australia Time (+6)
Live Group Mentoring – 4.00pm to 5.00pm
Lectures & Tutorials – 5.00pm to 7.00pm

–

EAST AUSTRALIA TIME (+8)
Live Group Mentoring – 6.00pm to 7.00pm
Lectures & Tutorials – 7.00pm to 9.00pm

*Please note that final schedule might slightly change and could vary according to local daylight savings time

Download the Schedule for Europe, Asia, Oceania – Synchronous Format

Download the Schedule for Australia – Synchronous Format

> In the Asynchronous format, tutorials and lectures are recorded daily and shared with the students. After having watched the recorded tutorials and lectures, students join the live mentoring group sessions in video-conference with the faculty and the other students to make questions, review their work and project development.
During the rest of the day, students can develop their work individually or interact with their colleagues, counting on the online campus platform, including online forums and chat rooms.

ASYNCHRONOUS CALENDAR

AMERICAS - MORNINGS

New York // East Coast Time ECT (-6)
Recorded Lectures & Tutorials – Available from 9:00am onwards
Live Group Mentoring – following day, 10:00am – 11:00am

–

Central America // Mexico Time (-8)
Recorded Lectures & Tutorials – Available from 7:00am onwards
Live Group Mentoring – following day, 8.00am – 9:00am

–

Los Angeles // West Coast Time (-9)
Recorded Lectures & Tutorials – Available from 6:00am onwards
Live Group Mentoring – following day, 7:00am – 8:00am

*Please note that final schedule might slightly change and could vary according to local daylight savings time

EUROPE and AFRICA - AFTERNOONS

Central European Time (CET) // West Africa Time
Recorded Lectures & Tutorials – Available from 3:00pm onwards
Live Group Mentoring – following day, 4:00pm – 5:00pm

–

East European Time // Central Africa Time (+1)
Recorded Lectures & Tutorials – Available from 4:00pm onwards
Live Group Mentoring – following day, 5:00pm – 6:00pm

–

Russia // Turkey // East Africa Time (+1)
Recorded Lectures & Tutorials – Available from 4:00pm onwards
Live Group Mentoring – following day, 5:00pm – 6:00pm

*Please note that final schedule might slightly change and could vary according to local daylight savings time

ASIA and OCEANIA - EVENINGS

INDIA time
Recorded Lectures & Tutorials – Available from 6.30pm onwards
Live Group Mentoring – following day, 7.30pm – 8.30pm

*Please note that final schedule might slightly change and could vary according to local daylight savings time

Download the Schedule for Europe – Asynchronous Format

Download the Schedule for Americas – Asynchronous Format

PROGRAMME DIRECTOR

David Andrés León

David Andres Leon is an architect with focus on the research, training and development of computational tools for the AEC industry.

He currently works for McNeel Europe providing support for third- party developers pushing the boundaries of interoperability and computational design globally. He is also part of the faculty of the Masters for Advanced Architecture in IAAC where he teaches in the Digital Matter studio alongside Areti Markopoulou. David also teaches programing for architects at the MPDA Masters programme of the UPC.

David holds a Master of Science Degree from the Institute for Computational Design and Construction (ICD) in Universitat Stuttgart and a Masters Degree in Advanced Design and Digital Architecture from the Escola Superior de Disseny i Enginyeria de Barcelona (Elisava). He has been involved in several research undertakings of which stand out his participation in German research platform FAT-LAB in Stuttgart and his collaboration as a research assistant in the Centre for Information Technology and Architecture (CITA) for the EU-Horizon 2020 Future and Emerging Technologies Proactive Action project Flora Robotica. David is also the co-author of varios publications in the field of architectural research and robotics.

PROGRAMME FACULTY

COLLABORATIVE ENTITIES AND TOOLS

The Master in Advanced Computation for Architecture & Design connects the students to an international network of practitioners, institutions and companies, leading pioneer computational design applications in the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) field. MaCAD Faculty are members of renowned academic institutions and companies including Swinburne University, Austrian Institute of Technology, McNeel and many more.

SWINBURNE UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY

Swinburne University of Technology is a public research university based in Melbourne, Australia. It focuses on the development of career-ready graduates in business, health, science, design, technology and innovation, with a broad field of expertise and first rate facilities. IAAC is an off-shore PhD partner of Swinburne

CITY INTELLIGENCE LAB

The City Intelligence Lab (CIL) is an interactive digital platform to explore novel forms and techniques for the urban development practice of the future. As incubator for intelligent solutions the lab fosters the co-creation of digital urban planning workflows and processes, applying augmented reality and interactive design interfaces to create simulations, generative design and artificial intelligence solutions.

McNEEL EUROPE

Founded in 1980, McNeel is a privately-held, employee-owned company which became well-known by its line of products for industrial design and visualization. The key and most popular of these products is Rhino 3D — a system for advanced but affordable NURBS based 3D-modeling. The company has more than 700 resellers, distributors, OEMs, and training centers around the world.

SPACEMAKER AI

Spacemaker is a technology company founded on the belief that there is a better way to design cities, and a vision that this needs to happen as the population of the world grows to new highs. Spacemaker enable architects, real-estate developers and other stakeholders in the AEC industry to make data-driven decisions from the very moment a project begins. To continuously iterate on designs and to explore the boundaries of what is possible on a site. Put together, we believe that these capabilities will enable the industry to design better cities for more people

SPECKLE

Speckle is the data platform that liberates AEC from proprietary file formats & closed source software. It is an open infrastructural base on which we, as a community of AEC hackers and doers, can shape the digital future of the built environment. Speckle avoids struggling with transfer data from a software to another, ensuring continuous and seamless workflow

NOUMENA

Noumena is a multidisciplinary tech company implementing innovative solutions in the fields of Robotics, 3D printing and Wearable Tech.
Specialized in 3d scanning, additive manufacturing, computational design, Noumena offers custom services to leverage existing solutions and support the digital transformation of agriculture and construction, manufacturing, and fashion sectors.

Students of the MaCAD are trained to use a large variety of technological tools and softwares including

MaCAD LIFE AND PROJECTS' HIGHLIGHTS

SEMINAR DIGITAL TOOLS FOR COMPLEX FORMING

Through the guidance of Faculty Hesham Shawqy and Faculty Assistant Erida Bendo, the students of the Master in Advanced Computation for Architecture & Design (MaCAD) embark on a transformative educational journey, honing their abilities to craft innovative, sustainable, and efficient architectural solutions inspired by the world around us.

Check out the results in this article!

MaCAD STUDENTS GAIN INSIGHTS FROM FRANZ FORSBERG OF DATATREES

In the realm of architectural design, the integration of computational technologies has revolutionized the way architects approach their projects. As part of the Advanced Computation for Environmental and Structural Design module, students from the Master in Advanced Computation for Architecture & Design (MaCAD) programme recently had the opportunity to gain invaluable insights from industry expert Franz Forsberg.

Check out the results in this article!

AI IN ARCHITECTURE: MaCAD STUDENTS LEARNING HOW TO RADICALLY INNOVATE THE AEC SECTOR!

In the third and last module of the MaCAD students explored the use of the most advanced tools for designing through machine learning and artificial intelligence.
How will Artificial Intelligence (AI) change the AEC sector and the role of designers?

Check out the results in this article!

MaCAD Scholarship Competition 2021

The Institute for Advanced Architecture of Catalonia announces a new Scholarship Competition for the next edition of our online Master in Advanced Computation for Architecture and Design (MaCAD) giving our master’s applicants the chance to win three partial scholarships covering 20% of the tuition fee.

Check out the details here

MaCAD Students running their Grasshopper Definitions on the cloud, within the BIM and Smart Construction Module!

During the Digital Tools for Cloud-based Data Management semina, MaCAD Students learned to develop Interactive 3D web applications, to publish their Grasshopper Definitions online, making them accessible to everyone, even not skilled users who never used Rhino or Grasshopper!

Check out the results in this article!

BIM AND SMART CONSTRUCTION: DISCOVER MaCAD STUDENTS’ CUTTING-EDGE PROJECTS!
April 2021
The second module of MaCAD on Bim and Smart Construction successfully ended in March with the final presentations. Students showcased outstandign projects to an international jury panel. Check out their work at this link, and discover three relevant aspects of BIM and Smart Construction: Integrative modelling, collaborative workflows, and cloud-based data management in design.

Check out the results in this article!