Architectural Studies, BSc (Hons)

Program Overview

This RIBA-validated BSc (Hons) Architectural Studies program in Hong Kong provides a comprehensive grounding in design, theory, history, and building technology. Delivered through a project-oriented approach with a focus on design activities and live projects, it equips students for careers in architectural practice and related fields, preparing them for a low-carbon future. The program features assessment methods tailored to demonstrate knowledge and skills, and offers career opportunities in the UK, Hong Kong, and beyond.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This BSc (Hons) Architectural Studies program, offered in Hong Kong, provides a comprehensive grounding in design, theory, history, and building technology. It aims to prepare students for a career in architectural practice and related fields, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to meet the challenges of a low-carbon future. The program is fully validated by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) for exemption from RIBA Part 1 in the UK.

Outline:

The program is structured over three years and delivered in-person at the Institute of Vocational Education (Tsing Yi) in Hong Kong. It is project-oriented, with a focus on design activities and live projects.

Year 1:

• Architectural Design 1a: Introduces architectural design, communication, and study skills through small-scale design projects exploring the relationship between people, buildings, climate, and context.
• Architectural Design 1b: Develops and fosters understanding of architectural design, communication, and study skills through more complex small-scale design projects.
• Building Technology 1: Introduces fundamental principles of structures, construction, environmental science, and materials.
• Architectural History and Theory 1: Introduces principles of architectural theory towards an analysis of architectural history.

Year 2:

• Architectural Design 2a: Builds upon work from Year 1, increasing the breadth and depth of thinking and quality of work produced.
Themes include local identity, community, urban design, and speculative and international themes.
• Architectural Design 2b: Increases core content and instills a philosophy of the added value of design.
Addresses various stages of the design development process, considering wider issues such as health and safety, sustainability, technical and construction constraints, and professional considerations.
• Building Technology 2: Advances concepts and theories introduced at Level 4, equipping students with transferable skills to investigate and critically appraise alternative structural, constructional, material systems, and environmental strategies relevant to architectural design.
• Architectural History & Theory 2: Provides more specific emphasis to the principles of architectural theory via an analysis of architectural history.
Reinforces the position of the architect in the present and introduces students to the various ways by which history affects architects and theory.

Year 3:

• Architectural Design 3a: Offers opportunities for architectural exploration prior to the final thesis design and consolidation in relation to projects undertaken in Year 2.
Focuses on detail, construction, structure, materiality, tectonics, and aesthetic aspects of architectural design in an urban environment.
• Architectural Design 3b (Design Thesis): Provides a vehicle to illustrate the design thesis as a culmination of the knowledge, skills, and abilities acquired throughout the course.
• Professional Studies: Encourages students to develop skills in project management and procedures for managing a practice.
• Architectural History & Theory 3: Covers detailed construction design in line with architectural principles and precedents.
Enhances learning through building case studies and reviewing construction exercises.

Assessment:

Assessment methods include coursework, papers, exams, reports, essays, and the development of a portfolio of work demonstrating knowledge and skills, including presentation materials and 3D artefacts.

Teaching:

Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, group work, project reviews, and public presentations. Design activities take place in a studio setting where students regularly meet with tutors to discuss project work and review designs. Students also learn by working on live projects and live builds with industry professionals.

Careers:

The BSc (Hons) Architectural Studies degree offers an excellent grounding in design practice, enabling students to pursue successful careers in the UK, Hong Kong, mainland China, and other countries around the world. Graduates can pursue careers in architectural practice, related fields, or continue their studies with a postgraduate Masters of Architecture (MArch) program (based in the UK).

Other:

The program is validated by the RIBA, a global professional membership body driving excellence in architecture. The program has been re-accredited by the Hong Kong Council for Accreditation of Academic and Vocational Qualifications (HKCAAVQ).

| Fees and Funding | 2024/25 | |---------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ | UK/Full-time | £9,250 per year | | International/Full-time | £16,500 per year | |