Architectural Design & Technology BSc(Hons)
Learn to integrate design, construction technology and building engineering.
Course overview
This course is new for entry year 2023
By engaging with industry through project work and with an optional sandwich year in professional practice, this multifaceted degree will put you on the right path to an exciting career working in construction technology.
Taught with a hands-on approach and deep concern for sustainability and green thinking, you’ll learn the digital skills required to simulate, model, design and test construction technology through real-life design challenges.
This course is pursuing accreditation by the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) and we will update the course page to reflect the outcome.
You will:
- Explore digital design, modelling, simulation and manufacturing processes
- Have access to technical facilities to support your design and modelling
- Learn how to manage construction challenges and integrate technological solutions
- Develop a comprehensive understanding of Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Integrated Environmental Solution (IES)
- Have the opportunity to work with industry specialists
- Tackle real-life, industry focused briefs
Course details
On this Architectural Design & Technology degree, you'll have the opportunity to gain a BSc(Hons) degree over three years or study Architectural Design & Technology BSc(Hons) with Sandwich Year study options.
Throughout this degree course, you’ll learn to integrate architectural design and technology. You’ll discover how to model, simulate and design test proposals, learn vital project and construction management skills, become a nimble problem solver and gain experience collaborating with multi-skilled teams and industry experts.
You’ll be introduced to the principles of design and technology, acquiring skills that will provide a strong foundation for your continued studies. Working collaboratively, this will include an understanding of the fundamental principles and ethics of sustainable design and an introduction to construction and building technologies and their application. You’ll also be introduced to vital project and time management skills.
Modules
Design studio one
Construction Technology
Technical Studies 1
Design and Sustainability
As a second year, you’ll be testing design and construction technologies as well as being introduced to professional practice and construction management principles. You’ll explore design and modelling functionality through Building Information Modelling (BIM) as well as examining Integrated Environmental Solutions (IES).
Modules
Design Studio 2
Digital Design and Modelling
Professional Practice and Management
Collaboration
Design Integration
Why study a Sandwich Year route?
You can choose to take an optional Sandwich Year, which means you'll spend a year between your second and third year on placement in industry, developing your business or freelance portfolio* or studying abroad. Choosing this route will enhance your industry experience and skills while studying.
How you’ll study in your Sandwich Year
Supported by an employer if you're working in industry, or the University if you've opted for the self-employment route*, you'll develop your industry skills and understanding of the workplace.
If you study abroad, you'll gain new perspectives on your subject, gain in confidence and independence.
Throughout this year, you'll develop a portfolio of work that includes a critical self-reflection on what has been learned from the experience. You'll be required to evidence your experiences, the skills you've learned and your professional growth.
*Self-employment options are only available for UK students, due to Visa requirements
Your final year consists of individual research and development leading to your final major piece of integrated design and technology work. You’ll be undertaking a real-life design challenge, which fully integrates building design, modelling, construction and technology. You’ll also acquire the skills needed to integrate project and construction management development protocols.
Modules
Design Studio 3
Integrated Technology
Future Skills
Research in Practice
The modules above are those being studied by our students, or proposed new ones. Programme structures and modules can change as part of our curriculum enhancement and review processes. If a certain module is important to you, please discuss it with the Course Leader.
How you'll learn
Your full time, campus-based course will primarily be delivered through integrated studio design projects. The course will be a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops and lab work delivered by industry specialists. You’ll be taught through intensive on-campus activities such as practical workshops and laboratories. This will be supplemented by online learning.
At Falmouth, we use a 'digitally enhanced learning & teaching' approach. Your experience will always be predominantly in-person, including seminars, tutorials and studio teaching, with some, more targeted elements, being online either live (synchronous) or pre-recorded (asynchronous). You can read more here.
How you’ll spend your time
|
Year |
Timetabled teaching and learning activity |
Guided independent study |
Placements |
|---|---|---|---|
|
1 |
40% |
60% |
0% |
|
2 |
35% |
65% |
0% |
|
Sandwich Year (optional) |
TBC | TBC | TBC |
|
3 |
30% |
70% |
0% |
How you'll be assessed
|
Year |
Written exams |
Practical exams |
Coursework |
|---|---|---|---|
|
1 |
0% |
0% |
100% |
|
2 |
0% |
0% |
100% |
|
Sandwich Year (optional) |
TBC |
TBC |
TBC |
|
3 |
0% |
0% |
100% |
*These percentages are indicative and may vary
Assessment methods
- There are no formal exams, all work is assessed through coursework
- Formative assessments will be on-going throughout the course
- Formative feedback is continuous, both from academic staff and peers
- A summative assessment will take place at the end of each study block
- Summative feedback takes place at the end of each study block
- Final-year projects and dissertation.
Staff
You’ll be taught be a range of industry professionals who are experts in their fields. This includes architectural technologists, architects, engineers and construction experts. You’ll also have the opportunity to engage with local makers and fabrication specialists as well as industry partners in construction. You’ll learn from visiting lecturers from relevant professions, with specialisms that include structures, environmental design and mechanical engineering.
Some members of staff only teach on specific modules, and your course might not feature every staff member who teaches on the course.
Sean McCormick
Senior Lecturer, Architectural Design & Technology BSc(Hons)
Sean recently joined Falmouth University to help establish the Architectural Design Technology progr...
Facilities
- Design studios
- Dedicated workshops, featuring activities working with 3D, metal, wood, resistant materials, rapid prototyping, casting and milling
- Subject specific library with multiple online resources
- Outdoor making spaces
- Student support and academic support services
- IT: WiFi and open access IT suites across both campuses
- Online Learning Space with 24/365 access
- Reprographics: large format printing, Risographic printers, large scale scanning, laminating, binding services
Art & Design Facilities
Primarily located at the Falmouth Campus in a subtropical garden, our studios and workshop facilitie...
Library Facilities
Offering extensive collections, our two libraries provide a wealth of digital resources, magazines, ...
Sports Centre
Our Sports Centre, on Penryn Campus, includes a spacious gym with up to 90 of the latest, new statio...
How to apply
| Course route | UCAS code |
|---|---|
| Architectural Design & Technology BSc(Hons) three year degree | K101 |
| Architectural Design & Technology BSc(Hons) with Sandwich Year | K102 |
Application advice & interview information
Go to ToolkitWe consider all applications on their own individual merit and potential. We invite all applicants to an interview day or audition to give them the opportunity to demonstrate this along with what inspires and motivates them in their field. Applicants will also be able to show their portfolio or give a performance depending on the course. We welcome applications from all subject backgrounds, whether you’ve specialised in STEM, the arts or humanities.
| Course route | Entry requirements |
|---|---|
| BSc(Hons) three year degree |
120 - 136 UCAS Tariff points GCSE Mathematics Grade 4 (C) |
| BSc(Hons) four year degree with Sandwich Year |
120 - 136 UCAS Tariff points GCSE Mathematics Grade 4 (C) |
UCAS Tariff points will primarily be from Level 3 qualifications such as but not limited to A-levels, T Levels, a BTEC/UAL Extended Diploma or a Foundation Diploma. Applicants should have GCSE Mathematics Grade 4 (C), or equivalent.
For applicants whose first language is English we require you to have or be working towards GCSE English Language Grade 4 (C), or equivalent.
If English is not your first language you will need to meet the same standard which is equivalent to the IELTS Academic 6.0 overall score, with at least 5.5 in Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening. We accept a range of in country equivalencies and approved tests.
If you need a student visa to study in the UK, you may need to take a recognised language test. You can read our English Language Requirements for more information.
For starting your studies in 2023
UK applications: 25 January 2023 (for equal consideration)
Applications after the 25 January will be considered on a first-come, first-served as long as there are places available. Apply for this course now.
International fee payers
International fee payers can apply throughout the year. But we recommend applying as early as possible, to make time for visa and travel arrangements.
Similar courses
Interior Architecture BA(Hons)
Uncover the impact and potential of the spaces in which we work, rest and play, on this future-focus...
Architecture BA(Hons)
Learn through making on this RIBA and ARB accredited course. Working on live briefs in a studio envi...
Graphic Design BA(Hons)
With an emphasis on design thinking and crafting big ideas beautifully, this Graphic Design degree i...
Interior Design BA(Hons)
Delve into the world of built spaces, interior environments and the people who inhabit them. Through...
Textile Design BA(Hons)
On our textile design degree, you’ll be part of a vibrant, supportive community of multidisciplina...
Sustainable Product Design BA(Hons)
Become a conscientious and innovative product designer with the professional practice skills to make...
