Architectural Engineering BEng (Hons)

Study level: Undergraduate
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Our degree in Architectural Engineering is designed to provide graduates with the knowledge and skills needed by society to design buildings and structures that provide sustainable, low energy built environments for the future.

Year of entry

2023-24

Location

Coventry University (Coventry)

Study mode

Full-time
Part-time
Sandwich

Duration

3 years full-time
4 years sandwich
5 years part-time

Course code

H221

Start date

September 2023

How to Apply
Book an Open Day
Download a prospectus
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Course overview

Professionals working in architectural engineering are highly influential in creatively shaping the built environment.

Students will gain practical interdisciplinary design and management skills and start shaping their personal development as an architectural engineer in practice. 

In this course, you will learn disciplines such as:

  • Architectural Technology
  • Building Surveying
  • Construction Project Management
  • Quantity Surveying
  • Building Services Engineering and
  • Civil Engineering.
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Global Ready

An international outlook, with global opportunities
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Teaching excellence

Taught by lecturers who are experts in their field
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Employability

Career ready graduates, with the skills to succeed

Why you should study this course

  • Combining architectural design with a thorough understanding of technological and engineering developments, we aim to make graduates of this course highly sought after in industry internationally and nationally
  • Teaching from current fully qualified and experienced staff who have a high level of design and technical experience in the construction industry and some of whom are still involved in research projects (staff may be subject to change)
  • Collaborative links with universities currently in 20 countries around the world, including Spain, USA, Denmark, Italy and France, giving you the chance for you to spend part of your studies abroad2
  • Studios and laboratories equipped with the latest versions of CAD software including 2D, 3D and visualisation software, building information management software and building performance analysis programs4
  • The opportunity to take part in events where you could meet members of the local design and building community and attend professional development meetings held by the professional institutions on campus (subject to availability).

What you'll study

In the first year, common to other building and engineering disciplines, you will be introduced to the fundamental topics of building design, engineering and the construction process. These learnings are essential to practitioners in all construction professions, such as what constitutes good building design and what causes damage to buildings.

Modules

  • This module will introduce concepts to develop an understanding of engineering properties of construction materials including modern construction materials and structural construction materials (concrete, timber, steel, glass and masonry etc.).  We will cover the composition, manufacture, properties, durability, performance and behaviour of these materials and the hazards and risks they may pose both during construction and subsequent operation of a structure.

    Compulsory

  • The aim of this module is to introduce the principal aspects of construction technology and associated materials as applied to low-rise buildings including the role of the construction and housing industry in achieving the UNs 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, specifically 3, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 15 & 17. The module content enables you to understand, apply and critically evaluate the key principals of construction processes, structures and environmental performances of low-rise buildings addressing challenges and solutions.

    Compulsory

  • The aim of this module is to develop your understanding of the design process as a circular activity that includes different aspects and stakeholders. You will practice and develop skills to critically appraise and devise a series of design activities to produce a coherent and creative portfolio of work. The module will require you to engage in collaboration between your peers and disciplines to engage effectively in a simulated professional environment. You should gain an appreciation of the collective goal of a design team to provide a creative and sustainable solution to architectural and engineering design.

    Compulsory

  • When tackling real-world problems, Civil Engineers often need to apply mathematical principles and processes or fundamental knowledge in relation to structural mechanics. The aim of this module is to develop your mathematics and problem-solving ability and to introduce you to the fundamental principles of structural mechanics to enable you to solve engineering problems of a non-routine nature.

    Compulsory

  • The aim of this module is to apply core civil engineering theory to a 'real' Civil Engineering project, demonstrating the link between theory and applied practice. This will incorporate theory previously learnt and applied practice taught through the module supported by examples of industry practice.

    Compulsory

  • This module offers you a practical examination of how the United Nation's (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) can be implemented and furthered within the Built and Natural Environment. The module will introduce you to how individuals, communities and businesses within the Built and Natural Environment could be responding to the UN SDGs and helping to transform the world through their impact. The module identifies how the SDGs impact your course discipline by exploring the 17 SDGs and focusing on the delivery and implementation of a student-led project that encompasses the most applicable SDG or a combination of SDGs to your specific academic discipline.

    Compulsory

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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

We regularly review our course content, to make it relevant and current for the benefit of our students. For these reasons, course modules may be updated.

How you'll learn

The highly practical nature of the course should enable you to work with staff and students on real-world problems from industry, commerce and research groups.

This means that while we cover the technical content of your degree, these projects aim to develop the professional skills required including: problem analysis and design; project, task and time management; risk assessment; team work and leadership; technical report and bench assessment; troubleshooting and more.

This course can be offered on a part-time basis. Whilst we would like to give you all the information about our part-time offering here, it is tailored for each course each year depending on the number of part-time applicants. Therefore, the part-time teaching arrangements vary. Request further information about part-time study.

Teaching contact hours

We understand that everyone learns differently, so each of our courses will consist of structured teaching sessions, which can include:

  • On campus lectures, seminars and workshops
  • Group work
  • Self-directed learning
  • Work placement opportunities2.

The number of contact hours may vary from semester to semester, however, on average, it is likely to be around 14-15 contact hours per week in the first and second year dropping to around 11 contact hours per week in the final year as you become a more independent learner.

In addition, you will be expected to undertake approximately 30-35 hours of self-directed study per week depending on the demands of individual modules. This self-directed learning allows you to use your research skills, consolidate your knowledge or undertake collaborative group work.

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are prepared for courses due to start in or after the 2023/2024 academic year to be delivered in a variety of forms. The form of delivery will be determined in accordance with Government and Public Health guidance. Whether on campus or online, our key priority is staff and student safety.

As an innovative and enterprising institution, the University may seek to utilise emerging technologies within the student experience. For all courses (whether on-campus, blended, or distance learning), the University may deliver certain contact hours and assessments via online technologies and methods.

Assessment

This course will be assessed using a variety of methods which will vary depending upon the module. 

Assessment methods may include:

  • Design portfolio
  • Modelling
  • Coursework
  • Reports
  • Projects
  • Phase tests
  • Group work
  • Presentations
  • Laboratories
  • Posters

The Coventry University Group assessment strategy ensures that our courses are fairly assessed and allows us to monitor student progression towards achieving the intended learning outcomes.

International experience opportunities

Construction is a global industry with the demand for building professionals overseas set to rise dramatically. The United Nations has identified nine countries, which will account for half the world’s population growth between now and 2050: India, Nigeria, Pakistan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Tanzania, the US, Indonesia and Uganda.

The content of the course continuously refers to the international context in which architectural engineering takes place, which aims to give an international perspective to your studies and future career. For example, we draw on case studies such as the ancient and modern architecture of Rome or Gaudi in Barcelona.

You will have the opportunity to go on at least one part-funded field trip overseas2 to look at architecture and engineering design outside the UK. Previous destinations have included Rome in Italy and Barcelona in Spain. The cost of this field trip is to be confirmed. Please revisit this page before applying.

Entry requirements

Typical offer for 2023/24 entry.

Requirement What we're looking for
A level BBC to include Mathematics. Excludes General Studies.
GCSE 5 GCSEs at grade 4 / C or above to include English or Mathematics.
BTEC DMM in an Engineering or Construction (has to be Civil Engineering Pathway) subject
IB Diploma 29 points to include Mathematics at Higher level

We recognise a breadth of qualifications, speak to one of our advisers today to find out how we can help you.

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Are you eligible for the Fair Access Scheme?

We believe every student should have the opportunity to dream big, reach their potential and succeed, regardless of their background. Find out more about our Fair Access Scheme.

Select your region to find detailed information about entry requirements:

Europe

Americas

Middle East

South Asia

South East Asia

East Asia

Africa

Russia and Central Asia


You can view our full list of country specific entry requirements on our Entry requirements page.

Alternatively, visit our International hub for further advice and guidance on finding in-country agents and representatives, joining our in-country events and how to apply.

English language requirements

  • IELTS: 6.0 overall, with no component lower than 5.5.

If you don't meet the English language requirements, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course. 

For more information on our approved English language tests visit our English language requirements page.

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Fees and funding

2023/24 tuition fees.

Student Full-time Part-time
UK £9,250 per year Request fee information
International £19,850 per year Not available

If you choose to do a work placement2, you should consider travel and living costs to cover this. There is also a tuition fee3 of £1,250 that will cover your academic support throughout your placement year.

For advice and guidance on tuition fees and student loans visit our Undergraduate Finance page and see The University’s Tuition Fee and Refund Terms and Conditions.

We offer a range of International scholarships to students all over the world. For more information, visit our International Scholarships page.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessments, facilities and support services. There may be additional costs not covered by this fee such as accommodation and living costs, recommended reading books, stationery, printing and re-assessments should you need them. Find out what's included in your tuition costs.

The following are additional costs not included in the tuition fees:

  • Optional international field trips: £400+ per trip.
  • Any costs associated with securing, attending or completing a placement (whether in the UK or abroad)

Other additional costs

  • Mandatory international field trips: Typically between £200 and £400 per trip

  • We carry out an initial fee status assessment based on the information you provide in your application. Your fee status determines your tuition fees, and what financial support and scholarships may be available to you. The rules about who pays UK (home) or international (overseas) fees for higher education courses in England are set by the government's Department for Education. The regulations identify all the different categories of student who can insist on paying the home rate. The regulations can be difficult to understand, so the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) has provided fee status guidance to help you identify whether you are eligible to pay the home or overseas rate.

    If you meet all the criteria required by any one category, including any residence requirements, your institution must charge you the home rate. You only need to find one category that you fit into.

Facilities

The faculty’s £50m Engineering and Computing Building and new £25m Beatrice Shilling Building are designed to support hands-on learning. Our Sir John Laing Building also houses a CAD Studio and Architectural Technology Studio4.

student working in Architectural technical studio

Architectural Studio

The multi-functional Architectural Technology Studio space acts both as a teaching and tutorial room. It houses 40 high spec computers which include Revit, Sketchup and AutoCAD. An informal area is available for group discussions, tutorials and making models.

 

 

students using the virtual wall in the simulation centre

Simulation Centre

You will have access to our Simulation Centre, which incorporates best practice building information modelling (BIM). Using a 3D model, the centre is designed so that you can view and walk through your project to add value, realise efficiencies and ensure every member of the construction team understands what is required of them and when.

Student working with materials in lab

Materials Laboratory

Includes industrial standard timber and steel workshops, a concrete mixing area with 3 pan mixers, programmable environmental chambers, a range of ovens and curing tanks and various materials testing apparatus.

 

 

 

Careers and opportunities

On successful completion of the course, you will have knowledge of:

  • Building technology and construction processes.
  • Management processes and systems associated with construction.
  • Building science with respect to materials, structure, services and internal environment.
  • The legal and regulatory framework within which buildings are constructed.
  • Economics of construction; design processes used in construction.
  • Current innovations relating to the construction of buildings; procurement and contract administration procedures; how quality is achieved in construction processes and products.
  • Health and safety in building design and construction.
  • Structural Engineering
  • Material science

You will be able to:

  • Analyse data and information sources in construction.
  • Apply techniques used for the analysis and surveying of existing buildings.
  • Apply CAD, manual drawing techniques and other tools to construction design.
  • Apply technical data to specification and production information.
  • Apply structural engineering solutions to architectural problems
  • Create and present design proposals.
  • Identify the aims and objectives of research.
  • Analyse, interpolate and present information.
  • Analyse and solve construction problems of a technical and managerial nature.
  • Reflect on the interdisciplinary and team working nature of the construction industry in order to undertake and manage construction design and the construction process.

Our Talent Team will help you in searching for work experience while you study and employment on graduation. Professional placements could significantly enhance your employability and many of our previous students have found their first graduate job through the organisation they worked for on placement2.

Coventry University is committed to preparing you for your future career and giving you a competitive edge in the graduate job market. The university’s Talent Team provide a wide range of support services to help you plan and prepare for your career.

Further study

You can choose to continue your studies at Coventry University with:

You may be entitled to an alumni discount on your fees if you decide to extend your time with us by progressing from undergraduate to postgraduate study.

How to apply

  • Coventry University together with Coventry University London Campus, CU Coventry, CU London, CU Scarborough and Coventry University Online come together to form part of the Coventry University Group (the “University”) with all degrees awarded by Coventry University. 

    1Accreditations

    The majority of our courses have been formally recognised by professional bodies, which means the courses have been reviewed and tested to ensure they reach a set standard. In some instances, studying on an accredited course can give you additional benefits such as exemptions from professional exams (subject to availability, fees may apply). Accreditations, partnerships, exemptions and memberships shall be renewed in accordance with the relevant bodies’ standard review process and subject to the university maintaining the same high standards of course delivery.

    2UK and international opportunities

    Please note that we are unable to guarantee any UK or International opportunities (whether required or optional) such as internships, work experience, field trips, conferences, placements or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be subject to additional costs (which could include, but is not limited to, equipment, materials, bench fees, studio or facilities hire, travel, accommodation and visas), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable travel COVID and visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand the visa requirements, please contact the International Office.

    3Tuition fees

    The University will charge the tuition fees that are stated in the above table for the first Academic Year of study. The University will review tuition fees each year. For Home Students, if Parliament permit an increase in tuition fees, the University may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation.

    For International Students, we may increase fees each year but such increases will be no more than 5% above inflation. If you defer your course start date or have to extend your studies beyond the normal duration of the course (e.g. to repeat a year or resit examinations) the University reserves the right to charge you fees at a higher rate and/or in accordance with any legislative changes during the additional period of study.

    4Facilities

    Due to COVID-19, some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) and some non-academic offerings (particularly in relation to international experiences), may vary from those advertised and may have reduced availability or restrictions on their use.

    Student Contract

    By accepting your offer of a place and enrolling with us, a Student Contract will be formed between you and the university. The 2023/24 Contract is currently being updated so please revisit this page before submitting your application. The Contract details your rights and the obligations you will be bound by during your time as a student and contains the obligations that the university will owe to you. You should read the Contract before you accept an offer of a place and before you enrol at the university.

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