With an exceptional track record for graduate employability, this course has a longstanding reputation for nurturing high-calibre and forward-thinking architectural technologists.
- Gain a real advantage over other candidates in the job market: this degree equips you with a recognised professional qualification and latest industry thinking
- Join one of the UK’s oldest standing courses accredited by the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT): we gained our original accreditation back in 1997 and have built an impressive reputation ever since
- Reach high professional standards: we are one of only a few CIAT Centres of Excellence in the UK and abroad
- Learn through practical architectural design and technology projects, field trips and guest lectures delivered by leading professionals
- Take the opportunity to gain vital practical experience with an optional year on an industry placement
- Draw on our links with major names in the sector locally, nationally and internationally
- Build excellent career prospects: 100% of our graduates are in a professional or managerial role within six months of graduation (DLHE 2016)
- Develop the skills and confidence to take up positions in architectural practice, consultancy, government, property development and building contracting
- Enjoy a great learning experience: this course scored an overall satisfaction rate of 95% in the 2017 National Student Survey
Leading to a recognised professional qualification, this degree offers a powerful combination of design, technology, the science of architecture, sustainability and construction.
Strong professional credentials
We have designed this course around the core subject knowledge requirements of the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT).
It entails a unique mix of live projects, advanced technical design and integrated environmental approaches, together with the application of Building Information Modelling (BIM) technology and building simulation systems.
Flexibility is a cornerstone of our BSc (Hons) Architectural Technology and Practice. You can study full time with or without an industrial placement year or you can ‘top up’ your existing qualifications – such as a HND or foundation degree – to gain a full bachelor's degree (subject to all core CIAT requirements being met). You can also choose to study on a part-time basis to balance your learning with your other commitments.
Important industry insights
Our longstanding links with companies – both locally and overseas – will inspire and enthuse you. Our associations span major names such as Akarstudios, Virgin Atlantic, Interserve, Benoy Architects, Jacobs, Bouygues UK, Pick Everard, Maber, Lathams, WCAC Group and Millar Management. There are regular guest lectures by leading experts from industry too.
Between stages two and three of the course, we offer you the chance to go on an optional year-long placement in industry. We strongly encourage you to take this rewarding opportunity and we will support you to find a suitable placement. As part of the placement experience, you can also gain an additional qualification for your CV: the Diploma in Professional Practice.
Consider a foundation year
Taking a foundation year first is an ideal choice if you have the potential and ambition to study this BSc programme but lack the formal entry requirements or feel you are not quite ready to embark on a full honours degree right now.
It is also a smart move if you have changed your mind about your career direction since you chose your A-levels or BTECs and need to improve your skills in a different subject area.
The foundation year will cover general concepts in your chosen subject, together with essential skills in areas such as writing reports and giving presentations.
You will study a total of 120 credits per year. This will be made up of single or double modules.
Stage one
You will study modules such as:
- Studio Design and Personal Development
- Design Analysis and Personal Development
- Technology and Structures 1
- Environmental Design and Services
- Architectural CAD
- Construction Materials Technology
Stage two
You will study modules such as:
- Studio Design 2 and Personal Development Part A
- Technology and Structures 2
- Advanced CAD and BIM
- Maintenance and Refurbishment
- Services and Sustainable Design
- Procurement, Contracts and Legal Studies
- Architectural Technology and Building Systems
Stage three
You will study modules such as:
- Integrated Project (Technology) (double module)
- Advanced Technical Design and Detailing
- Independent Study and Personal Development (Architecture) (double module)
- Professional Practice and Project Management
- Sustainable Design Analysis
Practical architectural design and technology projects will form the basis of your study. This is supported by field trips, placements and industrial guest lectures as well as studies relating to management, procurement, contracts and professional practice.
Computer Aided Design, Building Information Modelling, sketching and model making will play an important role in presenting your ideas.
How you are assessed
A variety of assessment methods is used, including a combination of coursework and live project work, assignments, competitions, exams, exhibitions, degree show, portfolios, graphics and oral presentations.
September 2019 typical entry requirements
| UCAS points | 112 (up to 16 from AS-levels) |
| Specific requirements at A-level | Background in Design / Technical based subject desired, but not essential. |
| Specific requirements at GCSE | GCSE Maths and English Grade C/Grade 4 (or above) or equivalent qualification |
| IELTS | 6.0 (with 5.5 in each skills area) |
| Interview / Audition | N/A |
| Portfolio | N/A |
Alternative entry qualifications:
- BTEC - DMM
- Access to HE Diploma - 60 credits: 45 at level 3 with a minimum of Dist: 15 Merit: 24 Pass: 6
We usually consider an A-level in General Studies as a supplementary qualification. A good application/performance will be taken into account if you do not meet the criteria/offer conditions.
Our entry requirements for this course should be read together with the University's general entry requirements, which details subjects we accept, alternative qualifications and what we're looking for at Derby.
Our graduates work in architectural practices or take on many different types of roles in consultancy and with central and local government, property developers, building contractors, housing associations, banks, retail enterprises and manufacturing companies.
You could also choose to take your studies to the next level with our MSc Sustainable Architecture and Healthy Buildings or MSc in Building Information Modelling and Project Collaboration. Further opportunities include advancing to a PhD too.
If you need any more information from us, eg on courses, accommodation, applying, car parking, fees or funding, please contact us and we will do everything we can to help you.
Contact us Contact us 4 years with an optional placement year.
5 years minimum. Direct entry into later stages of the course is available if you have relevant qualifications or suitable work experience (subject to an interview).
Day release: 2 years part-time (part-time day release mode guaranteed only for final year of the degree).
Download programme specification
Teaching hours
Like most universities, we operate extended teaching hours at the University of Derby, so contact time with your lecturers and tutors could be anytime between 9am and 9pm. Your timetable will usually be available on the website 24 hours after enrolment on to your course.
Additional costs and optional extras
We’re committed to providing you with an outstanding learning experience. Our expert teaching, state-of-the-art facilities and great employability prepare you for your future career. As part of our commitment to you we aim to keep any additional study costs to a minimum. However, there are occasions where students may incur some additional costs.
Included in your fees
- Studio facilities - glue guns, hotwire cutters, laser cutters in workshops, 3d printers
- Safety shoes
- Starter pack including A3 wallet, sketchbook, measuring tape, scale ruler, eraser, 3 x technical pencils
- Free membership of accredited bodies - license paid by college.
- Year 1, 4 day field trip to Scotland plus coach hire and bed and breakfast
- Day trips to free entry venues or construction sites
Mandatory costs not included in your fees
- Year 1 Scotland trip main meals approx. £20 per day
- Day trips to paid entry sites approx. £10
- Printing costs, approx. £30 - £40 per year
- Final Year Project from £150 depending on student choice
- Printing and Binding costs Year 3, approx. £50
Optional costs not included in your fees
- Course books - approx. £15 per book depending on source
- Year 2 - Optional trip to Barcelona - contribution of £100 + coach travel from college. Student contribution approx. £190 which covers flights, 4 day travel pass, B&B in Eurohostel, Entry to Parc Guell, Sagrada Familia, Casa Mia, Mis Van De Rohen Barcellona Pavillion, Olympic Park with guided tour and Museum. (Students expected to cover cost of meals other than breakfast)
- Any travel for paid placements
Please note: Our courses are refreshed and updated on a regular basis. If you are thinking about transferring onto this course (into the second year for example), you should contact the programme leader for the relevant course information as modules may vary from those shown on this page.
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