BSc (Hons) Architectural Design Technology (with Foundation Year)

What you will study

YEAR 1 (FOUNDATION YEAR)

This year of study ensures that students from all subject backgrounds and life experiences get a foundational course of study that both prepares for subject specific and wider, university skills at an undergraduate level. You will spend time with a subject specific teaching team and a wider support network to ensure you get the support for a wide range of skills.

MODULES

• Study Skills for Success (Core): Develop the essential academic, digital, and organisational skills you will need to thrive at university. From managing your time and structuring assignments to researching and referencing, you will build the confidence to study independently and successfully.
• Collaborative Practice (Core): Work with students from other subject areas to explore cross-disciplinary challenges. You will develop key skills in teamwork, communication, and research while tackling relevant themes across different fields.
• A Day in the Life (Core): Explore the range of career paths linked to your chosen degree. You will gain insight into professional roles in your field and start creating a portfolio to support your development as a future graduate.
• Engineering Principles (Optional): Build your understanding of core topics in physics, mechanics, and electrical circuits. The module also introduces sustainable energy technologies and their role in modern engineering.
• Engineering Practice (Optional): Take a practical approach to engineering by working on a design and prototyping project. You will also explore the ethical, social, and environmental responsibilities of engineers in today’s world.

YEAR 2 (LEVEL 4)

The second year of the Architectural Design Technology course comprises seven core modules and one optional module that combine to provide an informed introduction to the range of aesthetic, functional, legal and environmental considerations that contribute to the design and construction of buildings.

MODULES

• Architectural Design Technology 1 (Core)
• Digital Technologies in Drawing and Modelling (Core)
• Digital Technologies in Surveying (Core)
• Legal Principles, Compliance and Liability (Core)
• Science and Materials (Core)
• Construction Technology (Core)
• Professional Practice 1 (Core)

Choice of one:

• Building Surveying 1 (optional)
• Civil Engineering Design (optional)
• Construction Management 1 (optional)
• Quantity Surveying 1 (optional)

YEAR 3 (LEVEL 5)

The third year of the course builds upon the first through modules that explore important technical and procedural considerations in the development of architectural projects. Modern Methods of Construction considers opportunities for prefabrication and the use of modular design systems, and Procurement and Contract Practice addresses the ways in which building designs are commissioned and implemented towards completion and use.    

MODULES

• Architectural Design Technology 2 (Core)
• Modern Methods of Construction (Core)
• Building Services (Core)
• Procurement and Contract Practice (Core)
• Commercial Management (Core)
• Professional Practice 2 (Core)

YEAR 4 (LEVEL 6)

The final year of the course provides an opportunity to research a particular area of interest in Individual Research Project, and to define and develop a significant architectural design proposal in Major Project. 

All nineteen modules combine to engage students in their chosen field of study and are intended to encourage confidence and enthusiasm in the development of their expertise.   

MODULES

• Project Management (Core)
• Design for Climate Resilience (Core)
• Individual Research Project (Core)
• Professional Practice 3 (Core)
• Major Project (Core)

The information listed in this section is an overview of the academic content of the programme that will take the form of either core or option modules. Modules are designated as core or option in accordance with professional body requirements and internal academic framework review, so may be subject to change.

Entry requirements & applying

Our general requirement for the foundation year is UCAS tariff points of 48-72 but all applications are considered individually and we consider work experience, vocational training/qualifications, as well as motivation and potential to succeed.

Teaching & Assessment

Modules are delivered using a variety of teaching and learning techniques, including traditional lectures, practical ‘hands-on’ activities, tutorials and group discussions, laboratory work, construction site-based observation and peer appraisal. The main priority is to ensure that you feel comfortable within the academic learning environment and feel able to contribute to the discussion of subject matter within any class, tutorial or other learning activity that forms part of your studies – teaching and learning is fundamentally a two-way process within which your opinion is vitally important.

A range of assessment methods are used within the programme to simulate the sorts of written, practical, visual and oral communication skills that are expected of architectural technologists; written reports, the practical use of technical equipment, visual presentations, laboratory analyses, in-class tests, examinations, coursework and oral presentations are all important ways in which you can demonstrate your understanding. The types of assessment selected for each module have been chosen to best-suit the nature of the technical content in each subject, and collectively provide a range of opportunities for you to demonstrate your interest, enthusiasm and interpretation of content during your studies. 

In terms of particular assessment needs, the University’s Inclusion Services department can provide appropriate guidance and support should you require reasonable adjustments to be made to assessment processes because of a recognised prevailing disability, medical condition, or specific learning difference. 

Career prospects

The BSc (Hons) Architectural Design Technology course provides a qualification that is recognised as a comprehensive, informed and valuable measure of the technical abilities of the Wrexham University graduate in the design of architectural projects.

Opportunities for architectural technologists exist within the construction industry in many varied contexts, from ‘new-build’ developments to heritage and refurbishment projects of all scales and types – developing a career as an architectural technologist can therefore lead to many rewarding experiences, not least due to the fact that no two architectural projects are the same, and that architectural technologists are likely to spend as much time on site as they are at their desks. These circumstances mean that a career in architectural technology can often be challenging, particularly rewarding, but never routine.     

The BSc (Hons) Architectural Design Technology qualification will therefore provide a sound basis upon which to develop a career in the professional and technical aspects of building design in a range of architectural contexts. Graduates of the course continue to establish themselves as architectural technologists, construction project managers and design consultants not least because of the experience and understanding gained whilst following the BSc (Hons) Architectural Design Technology programme at Wrexham University.      

Fees & funding

You do not have to pay your tuition fees upfront.

The fees you pay and the support available will depend on a number of different factors. Full information can be found on our fees & finance pages. You will also find information about what your fees include in the fee FAQs.

All fees are subject to any changes in government policy, view our undergraduate fees.

Programme specification

Accommodation

At Wrexham University, we offer on-campus en-suite rooms within our Wrexham Student Village. These private, fully furnished spaces are conveniently located, providing easy access to campus facilities, study areas, and social spaces. Plus, you’re just a 10-minute walk from the city centre!

With all bills included, free Wi-Fi, 24/7 security, and large social areas, you’ll find everything you need for a great student experience.

Explore our student accommodation options to find your perfect home away from home.