Student at a laptop looking at blueprints

Architectural Design & Technology BSc(Hons)

Learn to integrate design, construction technology and building engineering.

Key details
Location
Falmouth Campus
Course duration
3 years / 4 years
Attendance
Full-time / Placement year
Subject to validation during this academic year
Yes

Course overview

This course is new for entry year 2024

On this multifaceted degree, you'll be taught with a hands-on approach and a deep concern for sustainability.

You’ll learn the digital skills required to simulate, model, design and test construction technology through real-life design challenges. By engaging with industry through project work and with an optional placement year in professional practice, you’ll be equipped for a rewarding career in the construction industry.

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
  • Access cutting-edge 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 Solutions (IES)
  • Have the opportunity to work with industry specialists 
  • Tackle industry-focused briefs, collaborating with multi-skilled teams and learning from industry experts and visiting lecturers

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 placement 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. Youll 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

You can choose to take an optional placement year after your second year on a three-year programme.

You’ll be responsible for finding your own placement, with support from the RealWORKS employability team. 

Choosing this option will enhance your industry experience and skills while studying. 

How you’ll study during your placement year 

You’ll spend time working in a professional context, as part of a business or organisation. This can be in one role, or up to three, and must be for a minimum of 24 weeks. 

You’ll develop in-demand workplace skills, deepen your insight into industry and grow your network of contacts, all of which could help you get ahead in your career after graduation. 

Throughout this year, you’ll develop a portfolio of work that includes 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. 

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.

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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 be assessed

100% of your assessment will be coursework.

Assessment methods

  • 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.

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Senior Lecturer, Architectural Design & Technology BSc(Hons)

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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 

Take a virtual tour

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Art & Design Facilities

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Art & Design Facilities
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Library Facilities

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Sports Centre

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Careers

As a graduate, you could become:

  • An architectural technologist
  • A 3D visualiser 
  • A BIM manager
  • A lead designer
  • A project manager

How to apply

Apply via UCAS

Ready to join us? You can apply through UCAS. You'll need to reference the course and University code (F33).

Apply now

Applying as an international student? 

International students can apply for a course through UCAS, via an agent or directly with the university. For more information about how to apply as an international student, visit our international applications page.

International applications

Course route UCAS code
Architectural Design & Technology BSc(Hons) three year degree UCAS code for entry year 2024 available soon
Architectural Design & Technology BSc(Hons) with placement year UCAS code for entry year 2024 available soon

We 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 placement 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.

Check how many points your qualifications are worth

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 2024

UK applications: TBC (for equal consideration)

Applications after the TBC will be considered on a first-come, first-served as long as there are places available.

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.

Fees, costs & funding

Tuition fees

Annual tuition fee Student
£TBC per year Full-time UK
£TBC per year Full-time EU/international
£TBC per placement year Full-Time UK and EU/international

Tuition fees are set annually and are subject to review each year. The University may therefore raise tuition fees in the second or subsequent years of a course, in line with inflation and/or the maximum permitted by law or Government policy. Students will be notified of any changes as soon as possible. 

The figures above don't include accommodation and living costs

Typical course costs

  • £450-600 - Recurring annual costs (materials and printing)
  • £750-1200 - One-off costs for the course duration (computer/laptop)
  • £400 - Optional study visits and placements for the course duration

If you need to bring equipment or materials with you, these will be outlined in your Welcome Letter.

Ask a student

What better way to find out about life at Falmouth University than by asking our current students?

From course details and academic support, to the social scene and settling in, our students are ready and available to answer any questions you might have. Simply set up your account, send them a question and they'll get back to you within 24 hours.

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