Architectural Engineering BEng (Hons)

In the second year, you will be introduced to more complex issues surrounding the profession such as adaptation of buildings, urban planning and structural design which aims to further explore your design and engineering knowledge from the previous year.

Modules

• Construction Technology, Assembly and Environmental Systems – 20 credits

  The aim of this module is to develop knowledge of advanced construction technology, which should in turn enable you to understand, apply and critically evaluate the key principles of construction procedures. The emphasis will relate to the role of the construction industry in achieving the UNs 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, specifically focusing on multi-storey and commercial framed structures and include a study of pre-construction activities, substructure and superstructure and the impact of the design process and legislative influences on the layout and planning of buildings.

  Moreover, renewable technologies, Modern Methods of Construction, BREEAM and passive design will also be considered together with the impact of energy conservation and climate change. The module will consider the building services which are installed to provide a suitable internal environment including acoustic, thermal, ventilation, air conditioning systems, natural and artificial lighting.

  Compulsory

• Adaptation Design and Building Pathology – 20 credits

  The aim of this module is to introduce you to the problems and challenges associated with adapting and converting buildings from one use to another in a particular context. It should engage you in the critical debate about the conversion of existing structures versus building new. You will develop creative and practical skills as a key challenge in improving the sustainability of the Built Environment and driving change for users, clients and industry. Focus will be on the information required for the planning, designing and administration of a building adaptation project in line with current industry practice.

  Compulsory

• Urban Design for Resilient Communities – 20 credits

  The aim of this module is to introduce you to the relationship between the built environment and the dynamics of communities. It will engage you to think critically about place, space and community from a historical, ethical, economical and design perspective. The module will explore the processes of physical developments in settlements of various sizes, with a particular focus on urbanisation and urban development nationally and internationally.

  Compulsory

• Structural Analysis and Design – 20 credits

  The module aims to develop your knowledge and methods of structural design with the underpinning principles and structural analytical methods.  This module will provide you with fundamental knowledge and skill in structural modelling using industrial standard computer software.4 You will be encouraged to make maximum use of knowledge and experience gained in other civil engineering modules for the solution of design problems.  Consideration for Sustainability in design will be highlighted. This module will consider contemporary aspects of structural modelling, design and carbon reduction considerations embodied in the design process.

  Compulsory

• Project, Finance and Contract Management – 20 credits

  This module will develop your understanding of the tools and techniques of project management and how to prepare and administer a construction contract using a Standard Form of Contract. The module will also explore procurement process for a built asset with a focus on finance, and the critical factors influencing the parties to the contract and the impact of their interactions on the project activities.

  Compulsory

• Sustainable Environments in Society: Developing Solutions – 20 credits

  In this module you will undertake a critical analysis of a specified location and associated project that has been influenced by the United Nation's (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Your analysis of the project will explore the impact, success or failure alongside possible solutions that will be fundamental to the positive future development of the location.

  You will research, appraise, critique, develop and then communicate to a wider audience the impact and implementation of the identified SDGs for the location/ project. The focus of the review will be linked to your academic discipline within the Built and Natural Environment and draw upon prior learning from your previous cognate knowledge.

  Compulsory

There’s no better way to find out what you love doing than trying it out for yourself, which is why a work placement² can often be beneficial. Work placements usually occur between your second and final year of study. They’re a great way to help you explore your potential career path and gain valuable work experience, whilst developing transferable skills for the future.

If you choose to do a work placement year, you will pay a reduced tuition fee³ of £1,250. For more information, please go to the fees and funding section. During this time you will receive guidance from your employer or partner institution, along with your assigned academic mentor who will ensure you have the support you need to complete your placement.

Whilst we would like to give you all the information about our placement/study abroad offering here, it is often tailored for each course every year and depending on the length of placement or study abroad opportunities that are secured. Therefore, the placement and study abroad arrangements vary per course and per student. Request further information about going on a placement or study abroad year. 

Modules

• UK Work Placement – 0 credits

  This module² provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved placement undertaken during your programme. A placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes.

  Optional

• International Study/Work Placement – 0 credits

  This module² provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved international study/work placement undertaken during your programme. A work/study placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes.

  Optional

In your final year, you should deepen your knowledge of the role of professional practitioners in the Architectural Engineering industry as a practitioner or as an employee in a design office. You will cover professionalism and codes of behaviour, as well as skills relating to low carbon, engineering and comprehensive architectural design.

The course culminates in a research-informed design project and an integrated design and construction planning project in collaboration with other students from our construction courses.

Modules

• Interdisciplinary Project – 20 credits

  The aim of this module is to demonstrate your skills base through the continued development of critical, transferable study skills that are of practical benefit in the workplace and that promote and enable continued professional development. You will bring skills developed in other areas of the course into a practical project delivered as part of a group. The purpose of the project is to develop key learning skills and personal attributes that are required within the Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering and Built Environment professions. These should prepare you for professional work, demonstrating teamwork, project planning, critical and research evaluation as well as technical and personal reflection.

  Compulsory

• Professional Practice and Contract Administration – 20 credits

  The aim of the module is to develop your understanding and knowledge of the role of professional practitioners in the construction industry and the process of contract administration used in the construction industry. The module will explore the detailed understanding of contractual provisions and administration mechanisms related to common forms of contract used in the UK. Furthermore, it also discusses professionals’ roles and responsibilities, risk and application of financial management, legal and insurance issues and law related to running a business in the construction industry.

  Compulsory

• Research Dissertation – 20 credits

  The aim of this module is to enable you to develop your research skills by conducting primary or secondary research focused on a specific problem of relevance to your discipline. You would use different methods and research skills, gained over previous years of study, to effectively communicate research novelties and ideas to the academic and non-academic communities. It will enable you to understand the importance of correct and critical analysis of all the factors involved in a problem and develop your initiative as you pursue and execute the investigation, demonstrating originality and creativity.

  Compulsory

• Comprehensive Architectural Project: Design Development – 20 credits

  This module aims to develop your understanding and ability to research and develop a conceptual design with associated design detailing, specification, and associated drawings. The module will focus on a specific technical data area which is relevant to a design brief and demonstrate the early-stage application of the researched dissertation technology. As a final design project, you will apply and advance your design skills, culminating in a comprehensive conceptual drawing package.

  Compulsory

• Comprehensive Architectural Project: Design Resolution – 20 credits

  The aim of this module is to develop your ability to produce and professionally present a comprehensive design with technical excellence. The project will be the culmination of applied design work that applies both architectural and construction technologies to the resolution of a design problem. It is intended that this will be a comprehensive demonstration of your ability to synthesise complex problems and work independently to produce a final design package.

  Compulsory

• Plus one of the following two optional modules:

  Structural Design – 20 credits

  The aim of this module is to apply structural engineering theory to the ‘real-life design’ of complex structural members of diverse types of building structures. You will develop a wider and deeper understanding of structural design and its use in the construction of a range of civil and structural engineering works. The module will consider up-to-date aspects of a more advanced nature and will include references to the latest guidance given in the Eurocodes and associated UK National Annexes. Particular attention will be given to safety and sustainability considerations embodied in design.

  Architectural Design in Historic Contexts – 20 credits

  This module aims to advance your architectural knowledge and design of buildings in historic contexts, examining developments in construction and technology and appropriate conservation and adaptation techniques. The module explores the history and theory of architectural and art historic movements to preserve historic structures, together with an emphasis on re-use, re-generation and wider urban and geographical context. This module provides you with an understanding on how the integration of the existing built environment constitutes a key component of a sustainable society.

  Optional