Boost your career prospects by studying in a CIAT Centre of Excellence. Through live projects you’ll gain latest industry thinking in design, technology, architecture, sustainability and construction.
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
93% of students said that they were satisfied with the overall quality of BSc (Hons) Architectural Technology and Practice, according to the National Student Survey, 2020
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
As a CIAT accredited course the content and depth of understanding fostered is outstanding, but what makes the course exceptional is the tutors, who are eclectic, incredibly knowledgeable and generous with their time.
Karaan Sabherwal
Winner of CIAT outstanding graduating student award
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.
The student who redesigned our University
When student Ryan Wheeler steps through the doors at Kedleston Road he feels real pride. Because he helped redesign our main entrance while on work placement with our Estates department.
Traditional design environments engage conventional drafting techniques to relay thoughts and ideas into reality, requiring competent personnel with considerable drafting experience. Any revisions have to be manually amended which impose constraints on resources (specifically time). The emergence of Computer Aided Design (CAD) packages has revolutionised the way designs are transformed into reality, significantly improving efficiency in term of editing and revising drawings.
This module invites you to prepare, modify and enhance designs using CAD software as the principal platform. You will be able to explore various features and functions of CAD software and apply them in the design process. It provides you with an introduction to the knowledge and skills required to use appropriate computer software as an aid to design in the built environment industry.
The aim of this module is to equip you with a wide range of basic skills and competencies that are essential throughout the programme and in the work place. This module introduces you to the principles of drawing techniques and production of two dimensional plan and section drawings and includes the ability to carry out simple internal and external survey work, leading to the production of two dimensional plan and section drawings.
You will be introduced to the free hand drawing and physical modelling techniques and to the principles of axonometric and perspective drawing. Simple concepts of spatial layout and organisation and three dimensional designs will be investigated. You will be developing your professional skills throughout the module with the support of embedded Personal Development Planning.
The module aims to introduce/confirm theory of basic design and explore visual language, which is related to historical and/or contextual analysis of a site as a continuously developing part of a city.
Therefore your design will consider past and present circumstances under the scrutiny of historical and contextual research aiming at finding out innovative and inspiring design concepts.
The effect of legislation on building design and layout will be explored alongside basic concepts of design and design methodologies as well. You will be introduced to design theory through practical experimentation in 3D form and space. You will be developing your professional skills throughout the module with the support of embedded Personal Development Planning.
Practitioners within the construction industry must be able to choose the most effective material for design and build applications with due regard to the material properties, function, method of manufacture and cost.
This module introduces students to fundamental materials concepts that will enable them to understand and choose materials for practical applications within the construction industry. Use will be made of materials selection software and the module will have a practical applications-based slant. The environmental aspects of materials are also considered including sustainability, and the health and safety aspects related to the handling and use of construction materials.
The long term decline in the supply of fossil fuels and their contribution to climate change is resulting in the design of buildings undergoing significant re-analysis.
This module aims to develop a broad understanding of the environmental criteria that contribute to the creation of a healthy environment within a building without imposing more than necessary on natural resources and the local environment.
The module aims to establish and develop a base of knowledge of the technology and structures associated with low-rise buildings and their infrastructure, comprising both predominantly masonry techniques and framed structures.
The learner will study health and safety requirements within a design and construction context. Designers’ concerns in choice and specification of components are considered along with assembly methods, against a background of regulatory controls and safety issues in the approaches and equipment deployed in construction operations. Sustainability and environmental concerns are considered throughout the module wherever appropriate, by looking at the different methods, materials and/or better practices. An illustrative approach is used to support learning, supplemented by site visits.
The emergence of Computer Aided Design (CAD) packages have revolutionised the way that designs are transformed into reality. This powerful and flexible medium offers a forum to create, modify and present ideas/designs in a variety of perspectives.
The evolution of CAD software was even more significant in the Architecture, Engineering and Construction industry, where simple two dimensional drafting programs have been developed into integrated building information modelling (BIM) applications in the past three decades.
This module extends the skills and competencies gained in CAD I module and enables them to prepare, modify and enhance detailed designs using BIM software as the principal design platform.
The aim of this module is to build on the theories and concepts, knowledge, skills and competencies gained by you in the first year modules Studio Design and Personal Development and Design Analysis and Personal Development, within the context of real life client brief. An integrated approach is adopted allowing you to consolidate the knowledge gained on all other modules. This module is intended to extend the abilities in conceptual ideas, process development, site survey, brief analysis, spatial layout planning, and technical and legislative considerations.
The student will be encouraged to creatively explore, analyse, synthesise and technically evaluate elemental aspects of building design. The effect of legislation and specification of materials will be explored alongside concepts of design and design methodologies. The student will be guided and supported to practice personal development planning activities, including reflection and targets set; these activities are embedded inside the learning, teaching and assessment of this module.
The module seeks to help students understand the relationships between parties involved in procuring, designing and delivering construction related services in an environment that reflects clients' changing requirements. Contractual responsibilities of parties are examined, and the central themes of cost, time and output/quality are illustrated to encourage you to think about appropriate administrative methods
This module enhances the capability of students to develop detailed analysis and synthesis skills to the understanding of framed structures and the materials used in their construction.
This is achieved by a clear demarcation between substructure and superstructure elements which is an essential element of the assessment strategy. In addition, you will develop recognition that the construction industry is moving towards greater use of prefabricated components and processes at the expense of traditional craft categorisation to meet the demands for buildings in the future.
A large part of the construction industry's resources is devoted to maintaining buildings in a state fit for their use, and refurbishing them. Design skills are exercised in the choices of materials and methods and you need to be aware of causes of deterioration in buildings and approaches to maintaining them.
The module will discern the choices available for extending a building’s useful life and identify the processes in carrying out the work. The challenges of ensuring a sustainable future for listed buildings will be considered.
The aim of this module is to develop the knowledge and understanding regarding the incorporation of service components within buildings to provide the necessary conditions of comfort and function. The services input within buildings is quite a significant percentage of the capital cost of building projects and therefore an understanding of the subject will complement other modules at this level.
In addition, over recent years, the advent of greater knowledge of resource use and carbon emissions to and from buildings has led to better design in their reduction. Hence, the module shall be structured in such a way that the existing services technology will be delivered with examples of developing technologies / models of sustainable design.
This module provides a framework for the development of “lifelong learning” skills appropriate to all areas of professional practice; including objective setting, planning, negotiating, implementing, demonstrating and reflecting.
The emphasis in this module is on the analysis and evaluation of the work completed within the organisation. This module also gives you the opportunity to relate your academic knowledge to the work environment.
Students need to be aware of the commercial realities and external factors that influence the success of an organisation. This module provides opportunities for students to acquire an understanding of contemporary issues that may impact on industrial and professional practices relevant to a career within their chosen discipline.
During this period of work experience, students can gain a deeper appreciation of the responsibilities arising from both corporate and individual responses to such issues, thus enabling them to relate to the wider world when exploring a personal direction for potential career development.
This module forms the culmination of the design elements that you have undertaken within the three/four years duration of the Programme. You are expected to independently apply knowledge, skills and understanding, with a focus on active and reflective practice and clear evidence of synthesis and integration of the various skills and knowledge acquired throughout the course.
The module is designed to provide you with the opportunity to develop a project that will explore all the main design and technological issues raised by other modules. The project will be rigorous and challenging, and will fully develop and test your ability to critically analyse the issues arising from a specified brief. You will be expected to critically appraise a given brief and produce an appropriate response, demonstrating the awareness of aesthetic, functional and regulatory requirements. This module will provide you with the opportunity to develop a strategic approach to design work.
During the design crits sessions and on completion of the project you will be expected to give a visual presentation of your proposals using appropriate materials and media.
Independent Study and Personal Development (architecture)
The independent study is a rigorous and distinguishing feature of honours degree programmes. It is a vehicle to both fully develop and test your abilities to work independently on a study, critically analyse data, argue rationally, and to draw independent conclusions that are clearly presented.
The study encourages in-depth, detailed study of a topic derived from the student’s own area of special interest in order to expand understanding of cultural, managerial, technological, scientific, or design aspects of the built environment. Topics are selected from subjects included on the programmes and are therefore an extension of the learning experienced on the mainstream curriculum.
The method of working aims to develop a range of related skills: the discovery, acquisition and searching of relevant information, persistence, determination and organisational ability in the use of study time; the administrative control and production of a substantial document; your powers of perception; and communication.
You will be provided with a Preparation Pack which lays down guidelines for the production and presentation of the study. At the outset, you are encouraged to propose subject areas which are of especially personal interest. Where you are unable to propose a subject area of personal interest, a list of suitable study topics will be suggested. You will develop a theme at individual tutorial sessions until the aim, objectives, and methodology have been clarified in outline. Initial tutorials begin during the latter part of the second semester of Stage 2 of the programme so that you can commence background reading in advance. Professional skills, such as communication skills and advanced professional standards are monitored and developed by following embedded Personal Development Planning procedures.
This module is designed to give you the skills and confidence to work as part of a built environment interdisciplinary team to assess, plan and develop a simulated or real built environment development project brief.
It will enable you to assess the skills, knowledge and experiences gained from your programme and bring these to an interdisciplinary team environment in order to collaborate successfully with other professions to produce a complete design and build solution for a set brief. It further aims to allow you to reflect on the experience of working in an interdisciplinary team and evaluate your professional performance in this scenario.
This module provides a theoretical and practical study of advanced technical architectural design and detailing, including constructional and structural technologies selection methods and appraisal; materials specification, sustainable and environmental building technologies and principles.
During study on this module you will become more proficient in advanced technical design and detailing and be able to critically reflect on the analysis findings, interpret the results and apply them within the context of your integrated project design exercise.
This module provides a theoretical and practical study of sustainable building analysis in relation to a design proposal, inextricably linked with its climate and location. Thus the use of sustainable analysis and energy assessment software is becoming increasingly common, primarily because of Government commitments and consequent continual tightening of legislation governing building performance. This legislation, such as Building Regulations Part L approved document and codes of practice, namely Code for Sustainable Homes, BRE Environmental Assessment Method and PassivHaus PHPP have, within them, incorporated requirements of EU Directive on the Energy Performance of Buildings that specifically called for the development and implementation of methodologies for calculating and modelling the energy performance of buildings.
During study on this module you will become proficient in analysis of sustainable designs using building simulation software, in areas as diverse as whole building energy analysis to thermal, solar, acoustic, visual impact and lighting studies aspects. You will also be expected to reflect on the analysis findings, interpret the results within their context and demonstrate this in a design exercise.
Please note that our modules are subject to change - we review the content of our courses regularly, making changes where necessary to improve your experience and graduate prospects.
Campus Tours
Campus Tours are a great way to explore our campuses, facilities and halls of residence. We’ll be running the tours in two-hour timeslots, giving you the best possible experience while adhering to social distancing guidelines.
Delve deeper into the course with our Virtual Open Day, packed with subject and course information to help you make your choice, including tours of facilities, 360° views of award-winning accommodation plus advice and insight from students and academics.
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.
Personal academic tutoring
Your personal academic tutor will work with you to help you get the most out of your time at university. Having someone to talk to about your academic progress, your university experience and your professional aspirations is hugely valuable. We want you to feel challenged in your studies, stretched but confident to achieve your academic and professional goals.
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.
September 2021 typical entry requirements
Requirement
What we're looking for
UCAS points
112
Specific requirements at A-level
No specific subject requirements
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
Pass Access to HE Diploma with 60 credits: 45 at Level 3 with a minimum of Distinction: 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.
Full-time students applying to start in September should apply for this course through UCAS or you can apply directly to the University for an undergraduate course if you’re not applying to any other UK university in the same year.
Full-time students applying to start in January should apply directly to the University.
Part-time students should apply directly to the University.
Full-time students applying to start in September should apply for this course through UCAS or you can apply directly to the University for an undergraduate course if you’re not applying to any other UK university in the same year.
Students applying to start in January should apply directly to the University.
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.
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.
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).
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, excellent 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.
The information below is correct for entry in the academic year September 2020 - August 2021 only. Entry for future academic years may be subject to change.
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 Compulsory Field trip withing Egnland – 4 day residential: coach, 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 abroad. Student contribution approx. £190 which covers flights and hotel. University contribution of £100 + coach travel from college.
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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