Architectural Technology BSc (Hons) with foundation year

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

This module is an introduction to the core knowledge and skills that define the role of different construction professionals within the building process in the UK and in the global context. The module will focus on your understanding and appreciation of both the specifics as well as the team aspects of different professions. In this context you will discuss project design, design economics, project management, site management, quantification, cost management, building services engineering, building surveying, as well as real estate management relevant to your specific profession but also in the overarching context of a building project. You will be practising aspects such as, but not limited to design development, computer aided design (CAD), measurement, condition surveys, site management and cost development with a particular application of key skills in your chosen professional path.

Compulsory

The aim of the module is to provide you with an insight into and an understanding of the concept of project management and cost management. This will include an introduction to project structure and stakeholders, managing different kind of projects, project cost appraisal and innovation in projects. The knowledge in these topics will help you to develop an understanding of the process used in your respective fields and industries and how your actions can impact on the overall cost of a project and to promote inclusivity, sustainability and foster innovation.

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

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

This module will introduce general principles and concepts of law related to the built environment. In preparation for professional practice, our aim is to develop your ability to understand and apply legal principles to particular legal problems that may arise in the course of built environment activities. The module covers the English legal system, UK legislation and areas of English law relevant to built environment professionals. It includes an introduction to contract law, tort, and the relevant aspects of employment law, dispute resolution, Building Regulations, law of land and property, landlord and tenant law, planning law and construction health and safety legislation. The module is specifically useful to those intending to be involved in the design and/or construction process.

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 will engage students in the critical debate about conversion of existing structures versus building new. Students 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. Crucially, students will be encouraged to think beyond that and discuss new approaches in the pursuit of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. A particular emphasis will be placed on research enriched learning to foster students’ critical inquiry skills.

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

In this module you will be encouraged to critically reflect on current architectural and built environment practices by considering the impact of today’s practice for the next century. You will explore past and current visions; analyse how they have fared and what this means for future visions in the light of already predicted challenges. The focus will be on anticipating future scenarios and conceptualising solutions applied to a design brief in a broad cultural, environmental, and technological context of anticipated change and innovation. Areas which may be considered are low carbon construction, corporate social responsibility, new and proposed legislative changes, changes to contractual arrangements, productivity issues and internationalisation.

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 SDG’s 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

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

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

Compulsory

This module aims to advance the architectural knowledge and design of buildings in historic contexts, examining advancements in construction and technology within construction and appropriate conservation and adaptation techniques. The module examines the history of architecture and movements to preserve historic buildings, together with an emphasis on re-use, re-generation and appreciation of context, this module provides the student with an understanding on how the built environment can be sustainable, delivering a positive effect on society.  

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 will seek to develop the students’ 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 area which is relevant to a design brief and demonstrate the early-stage application of the researched dissertation technology. As a final design project, the students will apply and advance their 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