Architecture Degrees Online

Course Content
At Level 4 (first year of full-time study) the modules provide students with an introduction to landscape architecture. Modules include design methodology, landscape design history, the earth sciences, and computer aided design, as well as graphics, IT and visual communication. The central focus of the year is a systematic series of design projects which enable students to apply the material from the taught courses and enable the development of basic design skills.

The Level 5 modules build upon Level 1 work in order to teach more creative and experimental approaches to landscape design, and include modules dealing with design theory and process, landscape planning and urban design, graphics, communication, landscape science and technology, and a series of design projects each of which focuses on one aspect of the creative design process. They include planting and construction technology, strategic landscape design, and the design of detail elements.

As the course progresses more student choice is available, and Level 6 provides students with an opportunity to develop their individual strengths and confidence in design, through enabling students to choose their specialist studies from a range of options. Modules at this level include theory, culture and society, technology and complementary skills, and two major design projects, each of which lasts one semester.

The course also offers opportunities for field study tours in England and Europe, as well as study exchange opportunities in America.

Assessment
The majority of learning is through course work and therefore most modules are assessed by coursework based on continuous assessment.

Entry requirements
A minimum of 260 UCAS tariff points or an equivalent qualification.
Maths and English GCSE Grade C or above required.

About the course
Architectural technology is a challenging career at the interface between the theory of building design and the practicality of undertaking building construction. The architectural technologist helps to ensure that technological solutions for building designs will work effectively, and can be constructed economically.

The course aims to develop a wide range of knowledge and skills linking theory and practice in the design and construction of buildings. You will learn how buildings work, and be encouraged to take both a practical and imaginative approach to creating efficient solutions to building design problems. Architectural technologists need to be informed about a wide range of issues such as construction, aesthetics, human behaviour and legal constraints. The expectation is to equip you, as a graduate, with all these skills along with other qualities of professionalism and cultural awareness. The third year is spent in industry or professional practice gaining relevant work experience.

The architectural technology course is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) and qualifies graduates for membership of CIAT as an Associate Member (ACIAT). In due course, it is then possible to progress to full membership as a Chartered Architectural Technologist (MCIAT) following completion of a Professional and Occupational Performance (POP) record and a professional practice interview. The course is also accredited by the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) and the Association of Building Services Engineers (ABE).

Special features
Industrial placements, study links and exchanges have been developed with EU countries, Australia and the USA.

Assessment
In each year there is a mix of coursework assessment, continuous assessment and examinations.

Your future career
Graduates entering the construction industry in the UK and overseas today are in great demand, and there are many opportunities to work with architects and design practices, local authorities, developers and construction companies. There are extensive career opportunities with specialist companies in the commercial, retail, tourism, and sports and leisure industries.

As well as design and contract management, your potential involvement could include: estimating; planning; buying; marketing; cost control and measurement; surveying; building control; maintenance; and building conservation. There is also the possibility for further study and research at higher degree level.

Professional recognition
The School received an ‘excellent’ rating from the Higher Education Funding Council for England (HEFCE) for the quality of teaching and learning for this course.

The course is fully accredited by the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT), as a ‘Centre of Excellence in the teaching of Architectural Technology’, one of only 18 universities in the UK to achieve this status.

The course is also accredited by the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) and the Association of Building Services Engineers (ABE).