Introduction
Use your creative skills to turn architectural designs into sustainable, liveable buildings – and learn to take the lead on major construction projects.
Architectural technologists are a key part of any construction team, qualified to lead construction projects from design through to completion.
At ARU, our Architectural Technology degree course focuses on the link between building design and production. It gives you the technical understanding to bridge the two – and take the lead on major built environment projects.
In our specialist model-making studios and out on site visits, we’ll explore the technology of architecture. You’ll become adept at fine-tuning the design of buildings so that they’re truly usable, liveable and sustainable.
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Architectural technology has four main themes: technology, design, management and practice. By studying in the School of Architecture at ARU, you’ll get the skills you need to work in each area. Together, we’ll explore the scientific and technical aspects of building design. Focusing on materials, function, production and the environment, our course will help you to think about building design in terms of ‘buildability’, sustainability and performance.
You’ll learn to turn designs into reality using traditional and digital modelling and testing techniques.
We don’t just learn in the classroom, though. Regular site visits and field trips give you first-hand insight into the industry, and the chance to make professional contacts.
As well as looking at the practical side of construction, we’ll cover business and management, regulatory issues, procurement and contract administration – so that, as a graduate, you’re ready to play your part in a successful architectural practice.
Specialist studios
At ARU you’ll be based in our School of Architecture, with use of:
- model-making studios
- industry-standard software for computer-aided design work
- construction and surveying equipment
- a fully equipped workshop with cutting-edge digital fabrication machinery and skilled staff.
Our University is renowned for its medical engineering and specialist 3D printers are available to all students.
Learn outside the classroom
All our Architectural Technology students can take part in:
- site visits
- a European field trip
- team activities such as designing and building structures on campus
- our end-of-year Architecture and Planning Exhibition.
There’s also the chance to take an optional placement year as part of this course, and gain practical work experience.
Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists
Our three-year degree is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT), and designated as a Construction Industries Board course in the built environment.
Careers
As an expert in the technical side of architectural design, you’ll be ready to work in a range of architectural and construction roles.
There are plenty of options to choose from. You might manage building projects, making sure that budgets and deadlines are met, the correct materials are used, and regulations are satisfied. You might pursue opportunities in manufacturing and processing, town planning, management, or Government institutions.
You could set up a practice on your own, join an established architecture or design practice, or take freelance jobs with firms such as property developers.
Whichever path interests you most, you can be sure that you’ll graduate with the knowledge, skills and abilities that industry needs. We work with employers, and they help us review what we teach and how we teach it – offering hands-on, practical opportunities to learn through work-based projects, internships or placements.
Graduation doesn't need to be the end of your time with us, of course. If you’d like to continue your studies, we offer a range of postgraduate degrees including our MSc Construction Management and MSc Town Planning. Take advantage of our Alumni Scholarship and get 20% off your fees.

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