BSc in Architectural Design Technology (Full Time) BSc in Architectural Design Technology (Full Time) University of East London
Bachelor Degree , Architectural Design
Course Description
Architectural Design Technology is an interdisciplinary course that blends architecture with building engineering, building technology and construction management. Our team of architects, architectural technologists, and engineers will equip you with all the skills and knowledge you need for a rewarding career in this growing field. You will benefit from the contribution of architects and professionals from world-renown practices such as Foster and Partners, Zaha Hadid Architects, Make Architects, SOM, Rogers Stirk Harbour, ARUP, and Atkins.
The course has a strong grounding in design projects and is particularly recognisable by its ‘hands-on’ approach to architectural design. There is a strong focus on technical studies as well as computer software for Computer Aided Drawing (AutoCAD, Revit, BIM, Adobe Illustrator, Rhino), and building design and energy performance simulations (Integrated Environmental Solutions (IES), and Design Builder). We have world class laboratories and workshops including digital and robotic manufacture (laser cutters, 3D printers, robotic arm).
The programme can be studied in either full-time (3 years or 4 years if you choose to do a placement year) or part-time mode (6 years). Apprenticeship routes have also been introduced in 16/17, in which employers within the construction sector have approached the University to offer Construction Design Management as an apprenticeship route on a part-time basis.
Course Content
We consistently review our courses to ensure we are up-to-date with industry changes and requirements from our graduates. As a result, our modules are subject to change.
FOUNDATION YEAR (IF REQUIRED)
Techniques for Designing
Design Project
Art and Design Workshop
Design Media
History and Theory
Mental Wealth: Professional Life
YEAR 1
The Built Environment
Construction Technology
Design Investigation 1
Design Integration 1
Technical Studies and Representation 1
Mental Wealth: Professional Life 1
YEAR 2
Tendering, Estimating and Cost Control
Contract Procedures
Design Investigation 2
Design Integration 2
Technical Studies and Representation 2
Mental Wealth: Professional Life 2
Work Placement
OPTIONAL PLACEMENT
This course offers the opportunity of year-long placement between years two and three. If you choose to take this option, you’ll spend your third year on a placement with a relevant company or organisation, adding valuable practical experience to your growing academic knowledge. The extra placement year means it will take four years to complete your studies, instead of three.
YEAR 3
Project Management
Design Investigation 3
Design Integration 3
Integrated Technology
Research in Practice
Mental Wealth: Professional Life 3
Entry Requirements
A LEVEL :- Must include passes at A2 in at least two subjects.
BTEC :- Extended Diploma or Diploma.
We would normally expect you to have Grade 4 / C in GCSE English and Maths.
OTHER ENTRY ROUTES :- Access to HE Diploma (QAA approved) with 60 credits overall and 45 credits at Level 3.
ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS :- Overall IELTS score of 5.5 with a minimum of 5.5 in Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking (or recognised equivalent). If you do not meet the academic English language requirements for your course, you may be eligible to enrol onto a pre-sessional English programme. The length of the course will depend on your current level of English and the requirements for your degree programme. We offer a 5-week and an 11-week pre-sessional course. Find out more here.
ALTERNATIVE GCSE QUALIFICATIONS :- Level 2 equivalences such as Level 2 Functional Skills in English / Maths, Level 2 Key Skills in Communication / Application of Number and Level 2 Adult Literacy / Adult Numeracy.
Assessment Methods
This is a practical course, so you’ll spend plenty of time in our Docklands-based design studios, labs and workshops using specialist software and technology. Project work is assessed within a design portfolio and supporting studies in the form of a bound report. We provide students with feedback on their progress throughout the year during tutorials and reviews. Construction management components will be assessed by coursework and exams.
You’ll be expected to carry out your own independent study to expand on what you learn in lectures, seminars and workshops. To support you, we’ll provide digital materials, notes and handbooks and you’ll also receive individual supervision and feedback from our dedicated academic members of staff.
Additional Information
Architectural design technology is a subject that could only be fully understood when you see how things works in practice, so you’ll go on many supervised site visits. Our superb connections with industry giants enable us to facilitate sponsored field-trips and real-live design projects that will allow you to experience architectural technology in action - not just in the classroom. We also host industry professionals who provide stimulating guest lectures and networking opportunities. At the end of the academic year, you’ll exhibit your work at our summer showcase.
Students have benefited from trips to prestigious construction projects such as the Tate Modern Phase 2 Extension and the Canary Wharf Crossrail station. You will also have the opportunity to join the prestigious Constructionarium field trip where you’ll plan and partner with a major contractor - in recent years P.J.Careys - to build a real building in a real-life environment. Each year there is an overseas study trip, where you get to learn from building technologies across the world.
You’ll have opportunities to gain valuable work experience during the course to improve your practical skills, understanding and CV. If you take the work placement option, you’ll benefit from a year’s paid work with a relevant company in your third year.
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