Architectural Technology BSc (Hons) / Architectural Design and Technology MSci with foundation year

This module fosters a comprehensive understanding of the processes, technologies and materials used in the design and construction of the built environment, integrating the 2030 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs).

Learn to interpret regulations, prepare detailed specifications, and analyse design details, drawings and material properties through practical application. Cover different projects and aspects of the build process, such as sub- and superstructure, services and finishes.

Emphasis will be placed on advising on sustainable technology and material solutions, leveraging detailed model-making to visualise and refine designs. Evaluate design impacts on cost and programme, collaborating with academic staff to develop SDG-aligned project solutions and contributing effectively to a sustainable built environment.

Compulsory

This module aims to provide you with a foundational understanding of project management principles and construction economics, specifically within the context of the built environment.

Explore the core concepts of project planning, execution, and control, alongside the economic factors that influence construction projects. Learn the importance of safe working environments and practices, and how they relate to project management and economic considerations, whilst also providing a foundation in site layout and logistics.

Compulsory

This module aims to provide you with a solid foundation in land and building surveying principles and the use of digital tools. Develop practical skills in interpreting drawings, applying land and building surveying theoretical and practical techniques, and creating 2D and 3D models using Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and SketchUp.⁴

Learn to collect, process and analyse surveying data through case studies and practical application, while critically evaluating their relevance to your field. The module also highlights the importance of ethical data management, emphasising professional responsibility.

Compulsory

Learn the essential knowledge and skills required by various construction professionals, both in the UK and globally. The module emphasises the roles of different professionals within the construction industry, highlighting how their specific responsibilities contribute to the overarching success of a building project.

Explore the interconnectedness of design, surveying, project management, cost management, site management and building services engineering, with a particular focus on real-world applications and sustainability.

Learn key skills such as design development, computer-aided design (CAD), measurement, condition surveys, site management and cost development. You will practice these skills to help you gain a deeper understanding of how professional construction roles interact within a project team to achieve global sustainability targets.

Compulsory

Gain the knowledge and skills necessary to adapt and repurpose existing buildings for new uses. Learn to analyse and redesign existing structures, considering factors such as structural integrity, service adaptation, and compliance with current building regulations.

The module emphasises the importance of conservation, sustainable practices and the commercial benefits of building adaptation. Key topics include planning process for change of use, structural assessments, adaptation of existing services, health and safety concerns, measurement and design. Elements of Building Information Modelling (BIM) are integrated into the module, highlighting the commercial benefits of adaptation.

Compulsory

Explore the fundamental legal principles and concepts relevant to the built environment, preparing you for professional practice. Develop the skill to analyse and apply legal principles to real-world challenges encountered in construction and related fields.

Learn key aspects of the English legal system, UK legislation and areas of law essential for built environment professionals while also being able to apply principles globally. The module covers contract law, tort law, health and safety regulations, dispute resolution mechanisms and statutory frameworks relevant to the construction industry. Learn how to identify legal risks, make informed decisions and effectively navigate legal issues from project planning to completion.

Compulsory

Expand and further develop your knowledge and skills concerning technologies and processes in the sustainable built environment. Evaluate pre-construction activities, substructure/superstructure, services, finishes, renewable technologies, modern methods of construction (MMC), Passivhaus systems and energy conservation processes in a wide range of built environment projects.

Compulsory

Reflect on current architectural and built environment practices by considering their long-term impacts. Explore past and present visions, analyse how they have performed, and what this signifies for future visions, considering anticipated challenges. The focus is on anticipating future scenarios and conceptualising solutions within a broad cultural, environmental, and technological context of expected change and innovation.

Key areas of study include sustainable design practices, low-carbon construction, wellness architecture, inclusive design and corporate social responsibility, as well as new and proposed legislative changes, changes to contractual arrangements, productivity issues and internationalisation.

Technological advancements play a significant role in this module, with an emphasis on Building Information Modelling (BIM), 3D printing, environmental considerations, digital fabrication, and smart buildings.

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 outcome. 

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

Expand your understanding of architectural history and the importance of heritage conservation. Learn the evolution of architectural styles, examining the distinctive features of significant architectural periods and the contributions of key architects.

Assess the cultural, historical, political, social and economic influences, alongside the technological advancements that have shaped architectural development over time. Delve into vernacular and traditional architecture, analysing their adaptation to local conditions and their impact on contemporary sustainable design. A strong emphasis is placed on heritage conservation, including principles, approaches and international frameworks.

Learn the complexities of adaptive reuse in preserving historic buildings and assess national and international policies on historic preservation. Legal and planning considerations for managing heritage sites will also be examined, providing a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities in safeguarding architectural heritage.

Compulsory

Focus on the strategic development of a building proposal, deepening your ability to research and create a conceptual design within a realistic development scenario.

Evaluate and refine the strategic brief, ensuring alignment with client and user needs while considering all relevant contextual factors. This includes assessing the development potential of a specific site, conducting a feasibility study and proposing a preferred design option.

The module emphasises an iterative design process, integrating aesthetics, technical feasibility, structural considerations, materiality and sustainability. Develop advanced visual and verbal communication skills so you can effectively present your design proposal across various media.

Compulsory

Develop your ability to produce technical detailed design solutions and to apply the outcomes of technical research to the resolution of a design problem.

Focus on RIBA Stage 4 (Technical Design), refining and detailing your designs to ensure they are ready for construction. This includes producing comprehensive architectural and construction drawings, specifications and schedules that comply with building regulations and client requirements.

Compulsory

Develop your research and investigative skills by scoping, designing and conducting an independent research dissertation under the supervision of academic staff experienced in the field.

Module content aims to improve your understanding of problem identification, reviewing literature and research design, and the development and implementation of appropriate methods. You will be supported to conduct research independently and to plan, manage, and conduct research within an appropriate context.

This includes the development of an understanding of:

• research design and methodology
• ethical considerations of research
• health and safety concerns (including, where appropriate, risk assessments)
• research methods for technical, scientific and social science investigations
• project management
• data collection, interpretation and analysis
• report writing.

Compulsory

Explore how architectural ideas and styles have developed over time by looking at key theories, influential buildings and major movements. Investigate how architecture has responded to different cultural, political and technological changes throughout history, helping you understand why buildings look and function the way they do today.

Take part in research, group discussions and writing tasks that encourage you to think critically about architecture’s past and how it connects to the present. Study the work of important architects like Frank Lloyd Wright, Le Corbusier and Mies van der Rohe, while examining major movements such as modernism, postmodernism and the arts and crafts movement. A hands-on trip to visit historic buildings will give you the chance to explore architecture in context, sketching, photographing and analysing the spaces around you.

Throughout this module, look closely at architectural concepts like light, scale and proportion, and engage with key texts written by theorists and architects. Your studies will lead to an independent research project, where you’ll dive into a topic of your choice and show your ability to reflect on the relationship between theory, history and design.

Compulsory

Take your existing design skills to the next level by developing an architectural proposal that not only meets practical needs of the user but also considers the cultural and environmental context of the location.

Design a detailed architectural and urban intervention, using a design brief that challenges you to think creatively and responsibly. Your design should balance aesthetics with technical and legal requirements, while also considering its long-term impact on the local community and future users. Throughout the process, explore how wider influences, such as the environment, culture, politics, economics and religion, shape the way we design buildings and public spaces.

Through research, sketching, testing ideas and presenting your work, deepen your understanding of architectural thinking and begin to shape your own design approach. Carry out site analysis, study inspiring buildings, consider how fine arts influence design and work with stakeholders to develop a brief. Learn how to ensure your proposal meets regulations, promotes sustainability and stays within budget.

Compulsory

Take part in a series of hands-on design exercises in the studio that help you explore how space, place, scale and experience connect in architecture. Work through creative challenges that encourage you to think conceptually and understand how design ideas turn into real architectural solutions.

Using both physical and digital tools, experiment with model-making, sketching and visual techniques to bring your ideas to life. Explore architectural and art theories, learn about design principles and pattern languages and think about how people experience spaces. Begin to apply sustainability goals, such as promoting good health and building better communities, into your design thinking.

Throughout this module, you’ll receive regular feedback to help you improve and grow as a designer. By the end, you’ll produce a final workbook, presentation poster and design portfolio that should show your creative development, design process and critical thinking skills.

Compulsory

Learn how to design buildings and spaces that feel comfortable, support good health and respond to the environment. Explore how factors like climate, materials, energy systems and user behaviour all play a role in shaping sustainable and people-friendly places.

Study the science behind buildings, looking at how heat, light, air and sound affect comfort and wellbeing. Explore how to model and assess building performance using modern tools and technology, such as Building Information Modelling (BIM) and smart systems. Consider how buildings interact with the natural environment and how to design with climate, landscape and local ecosystems in mind.

Throughout this module, examine a wide range of topics, including indoor air quality, thermal comfort, renewable energy and environmental regulations. Learn how to design for real users by considering their preferences, behaviours and long-term wellbeing. By the end of this module, you should understand how to create buildings that are not just functional and efficient but truly enhance people’s lives and the world around them.

Compulsory