Architectural Technology - Foundation Degree

Essentials

Duration: 3 Years Part-time
Start date: 18th September 2023
End date: 25th May 2026
Day: Mon
Time: 09:00-21:00
Information event: Y

Course fee: To be confirmed

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Course Content

Our new Foundation Degree in Architectural Technology, which is validated by Ulster University, focuses on the technical aspects of building design and construction and includes a focus on sustainable and innovative design within the ever-evolving modern built environment.  

Architectural technologists develop conceptual design through to final construction ensuring buildings are well designed and detailed, whilst being functional and energy efficient.  The course is ideal for people who are interested in a career in Architectural Technology, who require a Foundation degree to progress to higher academic qualifications and/or to enhance employment prospects.   

The course will be delivered on a part-time basis over three years with attendance in college on one day per week. The remaining four days will be spent with the employer. Generally, students must source and secure a suitable placement location/provider themselves, but the college may be able to assist with that for those applicants unable to do so. (Further details on this will be available upon application and interview) 

If you are currently employed or starting a relevant role you may be eligible for the Higher Level Apprenticeship (HLA) in Architectural Technology. Note that there are currently no course fees for an HLA.

Progression is by articulation to the second year of Ulster University’s BSc Hons Architectural Technology and Management, with a further two years of study required.  Within Ulster University alternative routes include the BSc Hons in Building Surveying.  Alternatively, you can undertake further study for a degree in another construction-related discipline or progress to employment in the construction industry. 

Key areas of study: 

• Architectural Technology 
• Construction Technology 
• Architectural Design Project 
• Digital Construction 
• Mathematics and Structures 
• Materials and Comfort 
• Design Principles and Management 
• BIM Applications 
• Building Refurbishment and Design 
• Supervised Work Based Learning (Placement) 

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Special Features

In college, teaching will be supported and reinforced through a series of guest speaker presentations, relevant site and study visits and other special events. There may be the potential for the student to undertake additional courses during their time on this programme to gain additional qualifications in, for example, Building Information Modelling, AutoCAD, Sketchup.  

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Assessment Methods

Assessment is a combination of coursework, practical and written examination including work-based learning which is covered by the work placement element of the course.   

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Course Update

Please note that due to ongoing major campus construction projects courses at Ballymena, Coleraine and Ballymoney may be relocated to alternative suitable locations as required.

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Applicants must satisfy the Ulster University General Entrance Requirements as specified in the University General Regulations and at least one of the following: 

• A minimum of five passes at GCSE Grade C or 4 and above, which must include Mathematics and English Language (approved equivalents can be found at www.ulster.ac.uk/study/entrance-requirements), and either: 
• A minimum tariff of 64 UCAS points to include at least one specified subject at Grade D or above at GCE/VCE A Level from the following list: Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Engineering, Biology, Geography, Applied Science or Double Award Science, Life and Health Science (single or double award), Technology (including Technology & Design, Design & Technology, Environmental Technology, Environmental Science and Digital Technology), Art/Art & Design or Media Studies; 

OR 

• A Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma or National Extended Diploma in Construction, Civil Engineering, Building Engineering, Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering or Applied Science with minimum grade of Merit, Pass, Pass; 

OR 

• A minimum tariff of 64 UCAS points with a combination of A Level and/or BTEC Level 3 Awards.  The subject requirement must be met either through the A Level or the BTEC award (see a and b above).   
• Irish Leaving Certificate: a minimum tariff of 64 UCAS points with four subjects at Higher Level, including one subject at H3 from Physics, Maths, Technology, Chemistry, Biology or Engineering. Must include English and Maths at min grade H6 or O4. 
• Scottish Highers: a minimum tariff of 64 UCAS points to include one B from Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics or a Technology or Engineering subject. Scottish Advanced Highers: a minimum tariff of 64 UCAS points to include one subject from Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics or a Technology or Engineering subject. Plus GCSE Maths and English at grade C or 4 and above. 
• Evidence of an ability to undertake the programme through the accreditation of prior experiential learning which must be submitted in accordance with the College Policy Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) Higher Education Process available on the college website. Plus a minimum of five passes at GCSE Grade C or 4 and above, which must include Mathematics and English Language (or approved equivalents: see 1 above). 
• Minimum 45% in approved Access to HE Diploma course in Science, Mathematics, Physics or Engineering. 

International students must also refer to https://www.ulster.ac.uk/global/apply/entry-requirements for entry requirements.

NOTE: Entry requirements are to be confirmed.

In circumstances where there are more applications for the course than there are places available, the College reserves the right to select candidates from those achieving the highest grades.

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As an Architectural Technology student, you will gain a broad range of knowledge in the design and construction of the Built Environment.  These skills will integrate design utilising CAD or BIM with aspects of material specification, human comfort, economics, estimating, law and contracts.  There are a range of potential employment opportunities and roles with Architectural practices, contractors (BIM and Design coordination), Department of Infrastructure, Building Control and companies within the construction supply chain such as Concrete products and Architectural Facades companies.

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