The Minor Architectural Design is an attractive and challenging programme for students with an interest in the built environment around us. The programme provides insight into addressing questions and challenges within the built environment in a creative and spatial way. It introduces approaches and tools that support the exploration of societal questions through spatial and architectural responses. The student will learn the tools to approach (societal) problems through spatial solutions. 
The student will develop his design mind-set, which is characterized by simultaneously analysing and solving problems. The methodology of design- and research thinking will be used, which is solution focused and action orientated towards creating a preferred and better future. This methodology draws upon logic, imagination, intuition, technical possibilities and systemic reasoning, to explore possibilities of what could be. The student will also develop the ability to visualize concepts as well as give advice on the various parties involved in a building process. The Minor has a flexible structure where the student can develop according to his own interest, fascination and previous knowledge.

Upon completion of the minor, students will be able to analyse and develop architectural compositions and designs using fundamental design principles, integrate material choices and detailing within architectural design and justify these choices, develop strategic design approaches and present architectural concepts effectively to stakeholders, apply architectural history insights to contemporary design challenges and conduct interdisciplinary research and develop an integral architectural design based on findings.

These learning outcomes align with the UNESCO Sustainability Competences, enabling students to develop systems thinking, critical thinking, strategic competence, normative competence, collaborative competence, self-awareness, and integrated problem-solving.

The detailed schedule is communicated during the kick-off of the minor. Studio-based ateliers are intended to take place during one half-day on Tuesday and Thursday afternoon at the Academy of Architecture in Groningen.

Assessment consists of assignments and reports, peer assessment, the development of a professional design product and presentations. Evaluation focuses on the design process, the spatial and architectural quality of the proposal, the integration of research and design, and the ability to communicate and substantiate design decisions.