2024/25 entry
BSc (Hons) Architectural Technology
Why study Architectural Technology at Liverpool John Moores University?
- Fully accredited by the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT)
- Opportunity to undertake a year's industrial placement or study abroad
- Opportunity to participate in collaborative interdisciplinary projects
- 6 million investment in developing state-of-the-art teaching facilities
- Stepping stone to a varied career, or to further study
- International Foundation Year course available offering direct progression onto this degree programme - visit LJMU's International Study Centre to find out more
- For more information about the subject, please visit CIAT | Homepage (architecturaltechnology.com)
About your course
The BSc (Hons) Architectural Technology programme is all about creating and understanding design, and turning ideas into reality.
The BSc (Hons) Architectural Technology could be the start of your career as an Architectural Technologist. The course is structured to enable you to develop specialist knowledge in building design, project preparation, construction technology, performance of buildings, contracts and professional practice. You will be given the opportunity to develop expertise in the preparation of architectural drawings using both manual drawing techniques and Computer Aided Design packages, including Revit. You will be given realistic technical design projects that enable you to develop your skills with projects becoming increasingly challenging and varied as you progress through the course.
Architectural Technologists lead the technological design of a project; forming the link between concept, innovation and realisation. They specialise in design, underpinned by building science, engineering and technology applied to architecture within projects, playing a pivotal role in project and design management. They need specialist knowledge of building design, construction technology, sustainable technology, planning control, building regulations and professional practice. They apply their skills within research, academia, manufacturing and processing industries, housing, health and government agencies and work collaboratively with other professionals in the built environment sector. This course will provide an understanding of all these aspects and will enable you to apply this knowledge to relevant design projects at all levels.
The programme provides an introduction to Building Information Modelling (BIM) allowing architectural technology students to work on industry standard software in a multi-disciplinary environment.
Links with industry mean that you will have opportunities to meet architectural technologists and other professionals working in the construction industry through guest lectures and site visits. There are opportunities to undertake a placement year in the sector where you can apply what you have learnt at LJMU out in the workplace before returning to University to complete the course. There are also opportunities to study at an approved overseas partner college that will complement your programme at LJMU.
Additional course costs
There are no travel costs for day site visits. Optional residential study visits in the UK and abroad will have costs involved. Locations of such visits may be subject to change.
Professional accreditation/links
Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT)
This course is accredited by CIAT, which is the global membership qualifying body for Architectural Technology. It's a membership organisation representing 10,000 members practising and studying in the discipline who wish to be professionally recognised.
The Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) <https://architecturaltechnology.com/> is a dynamic, forward-thinking and inclusive global membership qualifying body for Architectural Technology.
CIAT represents those practising and studying within the discipline and profession. It is a membership organisation representing 10,000 members and affiliates within the discipline who wish to be professionally recognised.
CIAT Accreditation ensures that the programme has been assessed in terms of content, structure, resources and has met the Institute’s requirements. The benefit of studying on a CIAT Accredited Programme is that it will support individuals wishing to become Chartered Architectural Technologists.
Fees and funding
There are many ways to fund study for home and international students
Fees
The fees quoted above cover registration, tuition, supervision, assessment and examinations as well as:
- library membership with access to printed, multimedia and digital resources
- access to programme-appropriate software
- library and student IT support
- free on-campus wifi via eduroam
Additional costs
Although not all of the following are compulsory/relevant, you should keep in mind the costs of:
- accommodation and living expenditure
- books (should you wish to have your own copies)
- printing, photocopying and stationery
- PC/laptop (should you prefer to purchase your own for independent study and online learning activities)
- mobile phone/tablet (to access online services)
- field trips (travel and activity costs)
- placements (travel expenses and living costs)
- student visas (international students only)
- study abroad opportunities (travel costs, accommodation, visas and immunisations)
- academic conferences (travel costs)
- professional-body membership
- graduation (gown hire etc)
Funding
There are many ways to fund study for home and international students. From loans to International Scholarships and subject-specific funding, you'll find all of the information you need on our specialist funding pages.
Employability
Do you want a varied professional career with many challenges and good employment prospects? If so then becoming a Chartered Architectural Technologist may be the career for you.
Chartered Architectural Technologists lead the technological design within architecture between concept, innovation and reality. You can set up your own practice, provide a full architectural design service and lead projects of all shapes and sizes from start to finish from new homes and hotels to shopping centres and sports stadia.
You will play a pivotal role in the construction process and be complementary to other Chartered disciplines in the built environment sector
The most likely route for new graduates is to secure employment with an architectural practice or construction company to gain experience in the design process and to use technical knowledge and skills acquired at University to provide innovative solutions. You may be involved in various aspects including:
- Preparing and presenting design proposals using CAD/Revit techniques and traditional methods. Leading the detailed design process and co-ordinating detailed design information
- Managing and co-ordinating the design team and associated professional consultants
- Developing the project design, researching problems and producing, developing and advising upon innovative solutions
- Producing, analysing and advising upon specification, materials selection and detailed design solutions in relation to performance and production criteria
- Liaising with and producing documentation for statutory approval authorities
Student Futures - Careers, Employability and Enterprise Service
A wide range of opportunities and support is available to you, within and beyond your course, to ensure our students experience a transformation in their career trajectory. Every undergraduate curriculum includes Future Focus during Level 4, an e-learning resource and workshop designed to help you to develop your talents, passion and purpose.
Every student has access to Careers Zone 24/7, LJMU's suite of online Apps, resources and jobs board via the LJMU Student Futures website. There are opportunities for flexible, paid and part-time work through Unitemps, LJMU's in-house recruitment service, and we also offer fully funded Discovery Internships.
One-to-one careers and employability advice is available via our campus-based Careers Zones and we offer a year-round programme of events, including themed careers and employability workshops, employer events and recruitment fairs. Our Start-Up Hub can help you to grow your enterprise skills and to research, plan and start your own business or become a freelancer.
A suite of learning experiences, services and opportunities is available to final year students to help ensure you leave with a great onward plan. You can access LJMU's Careers, Employability and Start-up Services after you graduate and return for one-to-one support for life.
Go abroad
LJMU aims to make international opportunities available to every student. You may be able to study abroad as part of your degree at one of our 100+ partner universities across the world. You could also complete a work placement or apply for one of our prestigious worldwide internship programmes. If you wanted to go abroad for a shorter amount of time, you could attend one of our 1-4 week long summer schools.
Our Go Citizen Scheme can help with costs towards volunteering, individual projects or unpaid placements anywhere in the world. With all of these opportunities at your feet, why wouldn’t you take up the chance to go abroad?
Find out more about the opportunities we have available via our Instagram @ljmuglobalopps or email us at: goabroad@ljmu.ac.uk.
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What you will study on this degree
Please see guidance below on core and option modules for further information on what you will study.
During level 4, students gain basic knowledge and theory of the architectural technology discipline. They gain an introduction to architectural technology in practice, with an emphasis on developing initial skills in the production of architectural drawings, via traditional manual draughting techniques and via computer aided design. Students will study key themes in construction technology, environmental science and materials, and architectural design and specification. Students will participate in a collaborative interdisciplinary project, and will become skilled in academic and digital literacy.
During level 5, students develop understanding of the regulatory requirements for construction projects and produce architectural drawings for a building refurbishment project. They are introduced to the notion of the architectural technologist as an entrepreneur in property development and will learn about procurement and contracts. Students' progress and enhance their practical IT skills through project work, and involvement in a collaborative interdisciplinary project with a focus on building information modelling (BIM). Students are also introduced to research methods skills as preparation for their final year research project.
During level 6, students focus on key concepts around strategic design and technical detailing appropriate for the architectural technology discipline. This is achieved by a major comprehensive design project for a complex building, for example a school. The project culminates in an end of year presentation, critical review and end-of-year show with students presenting their work to industry experts. During the final year students undertake research as part of a student-led investigation into a specific aspect, and students will learn about professional practice, and the role of the professional body.
Further guidance on modules
Modules are designated core or optional in accordance with professional body requirements, as applicable, and LJMU’s Academic Framework Regulations. Whilst you are required to study core modules, optional modules provide you with an element of choice. Their availability may vary and will be subject to meeting minimum student numbers.
Where changes to modules are necessary these will be communicated as appropriate.
Level 4
Core modules
Architectural Design Studio 1
20 credits
This module provides students with a practical introduction to architectural technology including the preparation and presentation of scaled architectural drawings based on a residential design.
Architectural Design Studio 2
20 credits
This module aims to develop an understanding of the residential design process informed by regulations, technical requirements and inclusive design principles. To use digital software to produce 2D and 3D architectural drawings.
Construction Technology 1
20 credits
This module introduces you to the building process and construction technology associated with domestic dwellings. It will enable you to develop an understanding of the performance of buildings and the influence of alternative methods and materials for sustainable construction.
Digital Design and Technology
20 credits
This module aims to enable students to develop academic and digital literacy skills to perform effectively on the architectural technology degree programme. To develop knowledge, understanding and skills in the application of digital technologies that are impacting architectural technology and the built environment.
Passive Design and Specification
20 credits
This module introduce fundamental concepts concerning passive building design with particular reference to dwellings. To introduce students to specification of materials for building projects.
Science and Materials
20 credits
This module aims to enable students to apply appropriate scientific and analytical methods to investigate the performance and behaviour of common building materials. We aim to provide students with an appreciation of the common scientific principles associated with environmental conditions inside buildings.
Level 5
Core modules
Building Refurbishment and Design
20 credits
In this module you will learn to demonstrate awareness of a range of factors affecting a residential building project and to produce detailed design documentation in accordance with building regulations. You will learn to further develop fundamental skills in the preparation and production of architectural drawings for a residential building refurbishment project.
Procurement and Contracts
20 credits
This module provides an comprehensive understanding of contract management, administration and the influence of procuring suppliers and specialists to optimise contract performance.
Property Development
20 credits
In this module you will develop an understanding of the property development process for residential and commercial developments. You will learn how to appreciate and evaluate the impact of planning regulation and controls on property development.
Sustainable Architectural Technology
20 credits
This module will provide you with knowledge, awareness and application of building regulations, environmental standards and codes of practice appropriate to the discipline of architectural technology. You will develop an understanding of sustainable design, materials and emerging technology in contrasting environments.
Sustainable Buildings Project
20 credits
This module aims to enable students to work on a group project that enables the integration and development of a range of professional skills in the context of sustainable building design, maintenance and management.
Construction Technology 2
20 credits
This module explains and analyses the construction techniques of framed multi-storey buildings. Students are enabled to evaluate the relative merits of the various construction forms in any given situation You will be introduced to current and future building services technologies for commercial and industrial buildings.
Optional Modules
Study Year Abroad - Architectural Technology
120 credits
The aim is to provide students with an additional year of study at an approved overseas partner that will complement their programme at LJMU. This is an additional year of full-time study at an approved higher education institution. The modules to be studied must be agreed in advance, and must be appropriate for the student's programme of study. Assuming successful completion of this year, mark-bearing credit will be awarded by the Faculty Recognition Group. The grade conversion scale to be used will be made available in advance of the year abroad.
Sandwich Year - Architectural Technology
120 credits
The aim is to provide students with an extended period of work experience at an approved partner that will complement their programme of study at LJMU. This will give students the opportunity to develop professional skills relevant to their programme of study as well as the attitude and behaviours necessary for employment in a diverse and changing environment. This extended placement forms a key part of a sandwich degree. All placements need to be assessed and approved prior to commencement in line with the LJMU Placement Learning Code of Practice. The Code of Practice requires students to conduct themselves in a professional and responsible manner during the placement - failure to do so may lead to the placement being terminated prematurely. Placements are normally for one calendar year on a full-time basis. Split placements of a shorter duration may be permissible. There is an expectation that a minimum of 1200 hours will be spent in the workplace.
Study Semester Abroad - Architectural Technology
60 credits
The aim is to provide students with a semester of study at an approved overseas partner that will replace one semester of their LJMU programme at level 5.This is a semester of full-time study at an approved higher education institution which will replace one semester of level 5 study at LJMU. The modules to be studied must be agreed in advance, and must be an appropriate substitute for the modules being replaced. Assuming successful completion of this semester, mark-bearing credit will be awarded by the Faculty Recognition Group. The grade conversion scale to be used will be made available in advance of the semester abroad.
Level 6
Core modules
Architectural Technology Dissertation
40 credits
This module aims to enable students to complete a substantial piece of individual work and build on their expertise in a selected area of study related to the discipline of Architectural Technology To develop students' research, time management, presentation and written communication skills.
Design Management and BIM
20 credits
This module aims to enable students to understand, appraise and analyse the complexities of designing and refurbishing buildings by exploring a project’s objectives and aspirations from the client’s perspective. To gain a strategic appreciation of how to manage files and documents within the construction and Common Data Environment Setting (BIM360).
Advanced Architectural Design
20 credits
This module will enable the integration and development of architectural technology skills in the context of a sustainable and inclusive non-residential building design.
Advanced Detailed Design
20 credits
This module aims to apply and integrate core architectural technology skills to translate concept design scheme into a detailed building design.
Architectural Technology Professional Practice
20 credits
This module aims to develop an awareness of the context and factors that inform and influence the practice of architectural technology nationally and internationally. You will develop an awareness of current topics, practices and professional ethics which inform the discipline of architectural technology.
Teaching and work-related learning
Excellent facilities and learning resources
We adopt an active blended learning approach, meaning you will experience a combination of face-to-face and online learning during your time at LJMU. This enables you to experience a rich and diverse learning experience and engage fully with your studies. Our approach ensures that you can easily access support from your personal tutor, either by meeting them on-campus or via a video call to suit your needs.
You can expect on average 15 hours of direct contact time per week at Levels 4 and 5 which may be in the form of lectures, tutorials, online activities and workshops in either the design studio or IT room. In addition you should spend around 35 hours per week in private study which may be at home or in the library.
Support and guidance
Dedicated personal tutor, plus study skills support
If you decide to take up a third year work placement, there is plenty of support available from the Built Environment Industry Unit, both in finding and securing the placement, and during the year when one of your tutors will visit you in your workplace to check on your progress.
Assessment
Assessment varies depending on the modules you choose, but will usually include a combination of exams and coursework.
All students perform differently depending on the type of assessment they are asked to do, and so a variety of assessment methods are used. These include exams (open and closed book), coursework (projects, technical reports, reviews, etc), and presentations (individual and group).
Your tutors will give prompt and constructive feedback via Canvas (our virtual learning environment), face-to-face or in writing. This will help you to identify your strengths as well as the areas where you may need to put in more work.
Course tutors
Our staff are committed to the highest standards of teaching and learning
Facilities
What you can expect from your School
This programme is delivered in the Byrom Street complex of LJMUs City Campus. Here you'll find high quality lecture theatres, meeting and seminar rooms plus social spaces and a large cafe. The Avril Robarts Library, open seven days a week during semester, is just minutes away on Tithebarn Street.
Entry requirements
Please choose your qualifications below to view requirements
Grades/points required from qualifications: BCC-BBB (104-120)
Qualification requirements
GCSEs and equivalents
Grade 4 or grade C or above in English Language and Mathematics/ Numeracy.
GCSE Equivalences accepted:
• Key Skills Level 2 in English/Maths
• NVQ Level 2 Functional skills in Maths and English Writing and or Reading
• Skills for Life Level 2 in Numeracy/English
• Higher Diploma in Maths/English
• Northern Ireland Essential Skills Level 2 in Communication or Application of Number
• Wales Essential Skills Level 2 in Communication or Application of Number
A levels
BCC-BBB
BTECs
Extended Diploma: DMM
Access awards
Acceptable on its own and combined with other qualifications
Pass overall with a minimum of 104 points
International Baccalaureate
Acceptable on its own and combined with other qualifications
OCR Cambridge Technical
Extended Diploma: DMM
Irish awards
Acceptable on its own and combined with other qualifications
International requirements
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IELTS
6.0 overall with no component below 5.5, taken within two years of the course start date.
https://www.ljmu.ac.uk/study/courses/international-entry-requirements
Please Note: All international qualifications are subject to a qualification equivalency check.
Application and selection
Securing your place at LJMU
UCAS is the official application route for our full-time undergraduate courses. Further information on the UCAS application process can be found here https://www.ljmu.ac.uk/study/undergraduate-students/how-to-apply.
We are looking for students who are keen to learn new skills and develop those they already possess. We want students with the ability to: be creative with ideas and concepts, moderate their creativity with logic, be enthusiastic and thirsty for knowledge, communicate effectively and confidently and understand and adapt to a wide range of issues connected with the subject.
It is also important that students are able to manage time and tasks effectively as an individual and as part of a team, use appropriate sources to find and organise information and select and critically evaluate information in order to analyse problems.
If you would like to develop these skills further, have a strong interest in this subject area and want to work effectively within it, then this is the course for you. International applications will be considered in line with UK qualifications.
The university reserves the right to withdraw or make alterations to a course and facilities if necessary; this may be because such changes are deemed to be beneficial to students, are minor in nature and unlikely to impact negatively upon students or become necessary due to circumstances beyond the control of the university. Where this does happen, the university operates a policy of consultation, advice and support to all enrolled students affected by the proposed change to their course or module.
Further information on the terms and conditions of any offer made, our admissions policy and the complaints and appeals process.