Architecture Degrees Online

The Construction and Energy Management program provides students with a basic background in the management of construction projects. Students will find employment in the broad spectrum of opportunities available in the construction industry. The program also provides continuing education for those already employed as contractors, site superintendents, project managers, estimators, and other areas related to construction.

The program offers a variety of classes for both entry-level and career advancement positions. Classes taken individually or in series will prepare the student for:

• employment in entry-level, mid-management positions such as Project Manager, Site Supervisor, Estimator, Owners Site Representative
• employment as a Building Inspector for both government agencies and private companies
• self-employment by helping in preparation for the contractor licensing examination

The program also provides oportunities to:
• augment the skills of those working in such fields as Real Estate, Construction Finance, Facilities Management, Property Management, Planning, Energy Use Analysis
• broaden the skills of those already in the construction industry
• gain a better understanding for purchasing, owning or building a home.

This first degree in architecture is unique in its approach to addressing issues of management in architectural design during the first three years of study. It aims to produce graduates able to undertake creative design and management roles within the built environment as well as progressing to the next stage of an architectural education.

Students undertake a series of design projects which increase in complexity as the course progresses. Alongside studio projects, students examine both academic and practical aspects of architecture such as architectural history and theory, as well as construction, sustainable design and management. The course has a particular strength in the teaching of vocational management skills. This gives graduates a firm understanding of the construction industry and the place of architecture within it, as well as the practical management aspects of architecture itself.

In recent years graduates have had an excellent employment record far in excess of the industry standard. The architecture course is accredited under the conditions set out by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and is prescribed by the Architects Registration Board (ARB) at Part I level.

Studio-based design projects are central to this course and are designed to stimulate an imaginative response to a series of significant issues or themes. Project work occupies half of the programme and is underpinned by the taught modules. Much of the work in these supporting modules is related to projects work.

Students examine management issues to develop an understanding of the impact on the design process, providing valuable preparation for work in practice. Field study visits are an important feature of the programme. Both first and second year students go on European study visits.

Modern studio facilities are provided with good access to CAD facilities and resources. Numbers are limited to ensure that students have a work space within the design studio. Students learn the broader context of the Built Environment by working with other programmes in the School. There are also significant links with the Interior Design programme, which is run jointly with the School of Design.