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Students
Tuition Fee
GBP 16,085
Per year
Start Date
Medium of studying
On campus
Duration
36 months
Program Facts
Program Details
Degree
Bachelors
Major
Architecture | Building Technology | Construction Technology
Area of study
Architecture and Construction
Education type
On campus
Timing
Full time
Course Language
English
Tuition Fee
Average International Tuition Fee
GBP 16,085
About Program

Program Overview


The BSc (Hons) Architectural Technology degree course is a three-year program that combines the science of construction with the art of design, focusing on creating new and exciting designs for a range of building types and functions. Graduates are well-equipped for a variety of careers in the built environment, such as Architectural Technologist, Building Surveyor, Construction Manager, and Project Manager. The program is accredited by CIAT and CIOB, and students have access to industry-standard facilities and software.

Program Outline


Degree Overview:

The BSc (Hons) Architectural Technology degree course is a three-year program that combines the science of construction with the art of design. It focuses on the creation of the built environment and the structuring of space in and around it. The program aims to develop students' ability to create new and exciting designs for a range of building types and functions, as well as analyze existing ones. Students will also explore the social, regulatory, technical, sustainable, and aesthetic context of the UK and global development industry.


Outline:

The program is structured into three years, with an optional professional placement year between the second and third year. The first year focuses on developing fundamental skills and knowledge in the residential area of the built environment. Students will explore traditional areas of the built environment, gain insight into how their future role is relevant, and be introduced to the innovations of a modern construction project through the Building Information Modelling (BIM) environment. The second year builds upon the first year's foundation, with specialist modules and more challenging project experiences. Students will learn more about commercial technology, advanced design practice, 2 and 3D design environments, and experience working collaboratively with students from other courses. They will also develop specialist skills in designing and planning the broader built environment. The final year refines students' skills and helps them realize their full potential. They will build up their portfolio of advanced design and specification work in readiness for their first steps in industry.


Individual Modules:


First Year:

  • Built Environment Technology 1: Introduces concepts relating to the technology of construction, including modern and sustainable methods.
  • Uses low-rise residential construction as an example.
  • Integrated Digital Design: Residential: Provides a foundation for executing the BIM process, facilitating its adoption, and achieving interdisciplinary integration on a residential project.
  • Professional Environmental and Materials Science: Encourages students to consider how the properties, structures, and performance of materials influence building function and impact construction from a design and practical use perspective.
  • Law: Provides basic legal concepts and principles needed for a professional career in the built environment.
  • Architectural Design Studio 1: Introduces architectural design, building technical knowledge, and developing design-related skills.
  • Students develop a comprehensive conceptual design based on a project brief.
  • Architectural Design Studio 2: Advances skills in architectural design and technical knowledge.
  • Students create spatially coordinated architectural designs based on a client brief and conceptual drawings.

Second Year:

  • Built Environment Technology 2: Builds on the foundation of knowledge gained in Built Environment Technology 1 and develops understanding of commercial construction techniques and methods, including modern and sustainable methods.
  • Integrated Digital Design: Commercial: Focuses on the application of BIM Level 2 mandate to extend digitized design, construction, and asset handover for commercial developments.
  • Design Practice: Develops the ability to assess the needs of clients and provides a broad-based study of Architectural Technology (AT) and Building Surveying (BS).
  • Emerging Digital Technologies: Focuses on the application of cutting-edge and emerging technologies in the built environment, responding to changes in building technology and digital technologies used in the design, construction, and operation of buildings.
  • Technological Design Studio 1: Focuses on designing an industry-standard commercial building.
  • Students analyze site features and precedents and incorporate influential parameters to shape a design proposal.
  • Technological Design Studio 2: Focuses on the technical and technological aspects of designing a sustainable commercial building.
  • Students develop building technology aspects, including building services and systems, building structure, sustainability, and building performance.

Professional Placement (Optional):

  • Professional Placement Year: Provides students with the opportunity to undertake a credit-bearing, 40-week Professional Placement as an integral part of their Undergraduate Degree.
  • The placement aims to improve employability skills and enhance understanding of the professional work environment.

Final Year:

  • Research in Practice: Students investigate a named site using common research methods and gather data on various elements of the site.
  • This module dovetails with the Design Project module, ensuring the applicability of the research.
  • Professionalism and Citizenship: Focuses on extending and providing evidence of professional skills and development.
  • Students examine issues related to the client, the site, planning, financial/development appraisal, design technology, legal and regulatory, health and safety, etc.
  • Urban Design Practice in Context: A design-led module where students implement and practice advanced design skills in response to a small-scale design project.
  • Individual Honours Project: Students undertake a sustained, in-depth, and research-informed project exploring an area of personal interest.

Assessment:

The assessment methods used reflect the course philosophy, with a focus on the ability to produce consistent work in line with the high standards and competences expected by the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT). Assessment methods include:

  • Coursework: This includes essays, reports, presentations, and design projects.
  • Exams: These are typically held at the end of each semester and assess students' understanding of key concepts and theories.
  • Portfolio: Students are required to build a portfolio of their design work throughout the course.
  • This portfolio is used to demonstrate their skills and abilities to potential employers.

Teaching:

The program is taught by experienced and qualified staff who have a strong understanding of the architectural technology industry. Teaching methods include:

  • Lectures: These provide students with a theoretical foundation in architectural technology.
  • Tutorials: These provide students with the opportunity to discuss their work with their tutors and receive feedback.
  • Workshops: These provide students with hands-on experience in using design software and other tools.
  • Site visits: These provide students with the opportunity to see real-world examples of architectural technology in action.

Careers:

Graduates of the BSc (Hons) Architectural Technology program are well-equipped for a variety of careers in the built environment. Some potential career paths include:

  • Architectural Technologist: This is the most common career path for graduates of this program.
  • Architectural technologists work with architects to design and develop buildings.
  • Building Surveyor: Building surveyors assess the condition of buildings and advise on repairs and maintenance.
  • They may also be involved in the design and construction of new buildings.
  • Construction Manager: Construction managers oversee the construction of buildings and other structures.
  • They are responsible for planning, scheduling, and coordinating the work of contractors and subcontractors.
  • Project Manager: Project managers are responsible for planning, organizing, and managing projects.
  • They may work in a variety of industries, including construction, engineering, and IT.

Other:

  • The program is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) and the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB).
  • Students have access to industry-standard facilities, including Computer-Assisted Design (CAD) 2 and 3D, as well as work in the Building Information Modelling (BIM) environment.
  • Students have the opportunity to participate in Innovation Fest, a festival designed to foster entrepreneurship and support the development of first-year students as future world-changers.
  • The University offers a Graduate+ program, an extracurricular awards framework designed to augment subject-based skills with broader employability attributes.
  • The University is located in the heart of Birmingham's Eastside, opposite the new High Speed 2 station construction, and minutes from dozens of fascinating live projects within the city center.
  • The University has dedicated Civil Engineering facilities, including a Hydraulics & Structures lab, Concrete & Geotechnics lab, and a bending rig.
  • The University offers a range of software for students to use, including Autodesk Revit, Autodesk AutoCAD, Autodesk Navisworks, Solibri, Synchro Pro, VRay, Lumion, Sketchup Pro, and CostX.
  • The University has a dedicated Built Environment Space in Millennium Point, an open workspace where students can work on their design projects.

  • Annual and modular tuition fees shown are applicable to the first year of study.
  • The University reserves the right to increase fees for subsequent years of study in line with increases in inflation (capped at 5%) or to reflect changes in Government funding policies or changes agreed by Parliament.
  • UK students
  • £9,250 in 2024/25
  • International students
  • £16,085 in 2024/25
  • Part-time study
  • The part-time route on this course is available for advanced entry, from year 3 onwards.
  • If you already hold – or are working towards – an HNC or HND in a related subject, you may be eligible to study this course part-time.
  • Guidance for International students
  • Through a country representative
  • Through UCAS
  • Non-EU students are not required to submit a personal statement when applying for this course
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About University
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Birmingham City University


Overview:

Birmingham City University (BCU) is a large and diverse university located in the heart of Birmingham, England. It boasts over 31,000 students from over 100 countries, emphasizing practice-based learning.


Services Offered:

BCU offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

    Accommodation:

    Seven halls of residence with various on-campus and inner-city living options.

    Financial Support:

    Scholarships and financial aid programs to help students fund their education.

    Career Services:

    Support for graduate employment, self-employment, volunteering, mentoring, and graduate events and training.

    Learning Support:

    Resources and assistance for students with learning difficulties.

    Library Services:

    Access to the university library for alumni and students.

    Student Union (BCUSU):

    A student-led organization providing representation, activities, and support.

Student Life and Campus Experience:

BCU offers a vibrant student life with numerous opportunities to explore:

    Life in Birmingham:

    The university provides information and resources for students to navigate life in the city.

    Campus Facilities:

    Access to industry-standard facilities, innovative learning spaces, and social spots.

    Virtual Tours:

    Immersive 360-degree tours of the campuses to experience student life virtually.

    BCU Boost:

    A financial support package designed to simplify student life, including travel incentives, financial management tips, and discounts.

Key Reasons to Study There:

    Practice-based Learning:

    BCU focuses on practical skills development and real-world application of knowledge.

    International Opportunities:

    The university offers international study opportunities and a diverse student body.

    Employability Focus:

    BCU emphasizes career readiness and provides resources to help students find employment.

    Gold for Student Experience:

    BCU has received the highest possible rating for student experience in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF).

Academic Programs:

BCU offers a wide range of academic programs across various faculties:

    Arts, Design and Media

    Business, Law and Social Sciences

    Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment

    Health, Education and Life Sciences

    Royal Birmingham Conservatoire


Other:

    Alumni Community:

    BCU has a strong alumni network with opportunities for engagement through events, mentoring, and international ambassador roles.

    Research:

    The university has research centers and projects across various disciplines, aiming to contribute to knowledge and the world.

    STEAMhouse:

    A unique space for innovation, enterprise, and skills development in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics.

    News and Events:

    BCU regularly publishes news and updates on its website and social media platforms.

Total programs
94
Admission Requirements

Entry Requirements:

  • Essential requirements: 112 UCAS tariff points
  • GCSE and other level 2 requirements: This course does not require evidence of GCSE qualifications.
  • A Level, BTEC and other level 3 requirements:
  • A level:
  • 112 UCAS tariff points / BBC (or equivalent)
  • AS Level:
  • Must be in a different subject to A Levels. A maximum of four subjects will be considered.
  • Pearson BTEC (Diploma / Extended Diploma/ Extended Certificate): 112 UCAS tariff points.
  • Diploma accepted with one A Level or equivalent level 3 qualifications. Extended Certificate accepted with two A Levels or equivalent level 3 qualifications.
  • T Level: Merit overall
  • Access to HE Diploma:
  • Pass with 60 credits. At least 45 credits at level 3 with 18 credits with Merit or Distinction
  • OCR Cambridge Technical qualifications:
  • 112 UCAS tariff points
  • NCFE CACHE Level 3 qualifications:
  • 112 UCAS tariff points
  • WJEC Level 3 qualifications:
  • 112 UCAS tariff points. Considered with two A Levels or equivalent level 3 qualification(s).
  • International Baccalaureate Diploma: Obtain a minimum of 28 points overall
  • Irish Leaving Certificate (Highers):
  • Minimum of 112 UCAS tariff points, achieved in five Higher level subjects
  • Scottish Higher / Advanced Higher:
  • 112 UCAS tariff points from three Advanced Highers (CCD) or two Advanced Highers (CD) plus two Highers (CC)
  • Welsh Baccalaureate:
  • 112 UCAS tariff points. Considered with two A Levels or equivalent level 3 qualifications In addition to the academic entry requirements listed above, international and EU students will also require IELTS 6.0 overall with no less than 5.5 in each band.
  • Mature students: Applications from mature students (21+) with alternative qualifications and/or considerable work experience will be considered on their merits.

Language Proficiency Requirements:

  • EU / International students: IELTS 6.0 overall with no less than 5.5 in each band.
  • If you do not meet the required IELTS score: You may be eligible for one of our pre-sessional English courses.
  • Please note that you must have a Secure English Language Test (SELT) to study on the pre-sessional English course.
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