Architectural Technology

This is a 4-year BSc Architectural Technology course where you’ll cover a range of topics from theory through to practice. Discover more about what you’ll learn.

Year 1

In Year 1, a large part of the learning is shared across all the undergraduate courses in the School and includes underpinning exercises focusing on knowledge and understanding as well as professionalism. One module is course specific integrating learning throughout the year, but the rest is shared, delivering core technical knowledge. This is supplemented by additional lectures from visiting professionals.

Year 2

In Year 2, you will put your knowledge and understanding developed in Year 1 into application. There is more emphasis on Architectural Technology related skills, focusing on building technology and information technology (BIM) in particular.  The studio projects will focus on existing and new housing, developing core skills from the previous year.

Year 3

Term 1 is academic and provides preparation for your placement in the Term 2. Focusing on the specifics of Architectural Technology, you are expected to take more ownership on project delivery in this year. Support is provided in preparation for work placement with alternatives such as European Exchange and Simulated Professional Practice (where a practitioner delivers office based projects) also encouraged.

Year 4

Half the credits for the final year are spent on a dedicated studio project delivered by practice professionals, supported by other core modules. Opportunities are provided to learn from a wide range of professionals through networking events organised by the local chapter of the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT).

Student stories

Learning Methods

You will learn through design modules that become increasingly thematic and studio-based in successive years of the course.  Teaching is through a blend of directed learning, tutorials and live situations where you will have the opportunity to apply your knowledge and skills in practice.

Our learning is ‘hands on’ and you will work seamlessly between drawings, models, computer packages and note taking, both individually and in groups with students and staff. 

In addition to classroom based lectures and workshops, you will benefit from hearing and connecting with visiting professionals from a range of disciplines and will have the opportunity to travel, whether on study trips to look at the very best of international design or on student exchanges.

Activity Summary

• Lectures - 25-30 students per group, 3 hours per week
• Seminars - 25-30 students per group, 3 hours per week
• Project Supervision - 25-30 students per group, 2 hours per week
• Practical class or workshop - 25-30 students per group, 8 hours per week
• Supervised time in studio / workshop - 25-30 students per group, 8 hours per week
• Independent Study - 25-30 students per group, 8 hours per week

How long is a BSc (Hons) Architectural Technology course?

The Architectural Technology course can be successfully completed in 4 years.

Independent Study

As you progress from Year 1 – 4, the level of independent learning increases significantly within specialist areas of the course. You are expected to have the confidence to apply your knowledge to more complex contexts and work on your initiative as you progress towards graduation.

Staff Delivering on This Course

We operate an open-door policy and enjoy strong relations between our students and staff. All members of staff on the course are Chartered Architectural Technologists, one of which is a graduate of the course as well as completing his PhD in the topic area at RGU. 

All staff have teaching qualifications, including fellowship of the Higher Education Academy, recognising their practice, impact and leadership in teaching and learning.

The academic staff are supported by part-time and ad-hoc practitioners who are all accredited as either Architects or Architectural Technologists and who provide additional teaching support and/or extra-curricular lectures and reviews.

Assessment

Typically students are assessed each year:

Year 1

• 2 written exams, typically for 2-3 hours (depending on module)
• 1 written assignment, including essay
• 2 reports
• 1 oral assessment
• 2 group critiques
• 2 technical booklets or posters

Year 2

• 4 written exams, typically for 2-3 hours (depending on module)
• 2 reports
• 1 set exercise
• 4 oral assessments
• 3 group critiques
• 4 technical booklets or posters

Year 3

• 3 reports
• 2 oral assessments
• 2 group critiques
• 1 technical booklet or poster

Year 4

• 1 report
• 1 dissertation
• 2 oral assessments
• 1 technical booklet or poster

Feedback

We aim to provide you with feedback within 20 working days of hand-in for all written exams, coursework and practical exams.

Academic Support

The Inclusion Centre advises and supports students who disclose a sensory or mobility impairment, chronic medical condition, mental health issue, dyslexia and other specific learning differences. Applicants are encouraged to arrange a pre-entry visit to discuss any concerns and to view the facilities.

Online Learning & Support

All undergraduate and postgraduate students, whether you are learning on campus or by online learning, benefit from using our collaborative virtual learning environment, CampusMoodle. You will be provided with 24/7 online access to your learning material and resources, along with the ability to interact with your class members and tutors for discussion and support.

Study Skills Support

The Study Support Team provides training and support to all students in:

• Academic writing
• Study skills (note taking, exam techniques, time management, presentation)
• Maths and statistics
• English language
• Information technology support

Library Support

The Library offers support for your course, including the books, eBooks, and journals you will need. We also offer online reading lists for many modules, workshops and drop-ins on searching skills and referencing, and much more.

Placements

In Year 3 you will have the opportunity to undertake a compulsory paid industry placement for one term allowing you to gain valuable professional experience in any related professional field. For instance, you could learn how to become an Architectural Technologist.

Engaging with the industry during work experience is an essential part of this course. It will also allow you to gain hands-on skills that will help you in your career further down the line. Our Placement Office can support you in securing a placement, however most students achieve placement from their own independent networking.

Previous students have undertaken placements locally, nationally and internationally with architecture firms, contractors, manufacturers and visualisation experts, as well as in the energy sector.

Study Abroad

In Year 3 you will have the opportunity to study at one of our partner institutions in order to broaden your horizons and enhance your architectural education. Exchange opportunities for architectural technology include universities in Denmark, Finland, Italy, The Netherlands or Spain. All are English speaking excluding Barcelona.

Job Prospects

On completion of the course you will have developed skills and knowledge in understanding application, analysis, synthesis and evaluation relating to design, technology, management and practice.

Is Architectural Technology a good career choice?

Our Architectural Technology graduates go on to work for small and large practices around the world, as well as across a range of professional environments including architectural practice, built environment consultancies, contracting organisations and the manufacturing industry.

Previous BSc Architectural Technology graduates of Robert Gordon University have gone on to pursue the following careers:

• Architectural Technician
• Graduate Design Manager
• Trainee Site Manager

Early career development will invariably focus on achieving full membership of the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT).

What is needed for an Architectural Technology course?

Standard Entry Requirements

• SQA Higher: BBCC to include English (or a written subject requiring the use of English). Maths or a science subject is required at National 5 grade C or above if not held at Higher.
• GCE A Level: CCC to include English (or a written subject requiring the use of English). Maths or a science subject is required at GCSE grade 5/C or above if not held at A Level.
• Irish Leaving Certificate Higher: H3H3H3H3 to include English (or a written subject requiring the use of English). Maths or a science subject is required at grade O3 or above if not held at Higher.
• IB Diploma: 26 to include Higher Level English (or a written subject requiring the use of English). Maths is required at Standard Level grade 4 or above if not held at Higher Level.

Minimum Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirements for widening access applicants are:

• SQA Higher: BCC/CCCC to include English or a written subject requiring the use of English. Maths or a Science required at National 5 C if not held at Higher.

Applicants from Partner Colleges

A relevant HND from one of our partner colleges will be considered for entry into Year 3 subject to meeting requirements.

Advanced Entry

All other applicants who are interested in applying for advanced entry will be considered on an individual basis.

English Language Requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English should have an IELTS of 6.0 overall, with no component lower than 5.5, or an equivalent.

We accept a variety of in-country and secure English language tests, find out more:

Please note, some courses may require a higher standard of English than stated in this page. Contact admissions@rgu.ac.uk for further information.

Additional Costs

• Printing and Binding (average): Year 1 £30, Year 2 £120, Year 3 £60, Year 4 £120
• Models (average): Year 1 £10, Year 2 £40, Year 3 £40
• Travel: £20 (site visit for Year 4)
• Materials: £140 (average in Year 4)
• International Travel: £300 (optional in Year 2 or 3)
• Laptop: £800 (guidance on system requirements should be sought before purchase)