Architectural Design Technology is an interdisciplinary course that blends architecture with building engineering, building technology and construction management. Our team of architects, architectural technologists, and engineers will equip you with all the skills and knowledge you need for a rewarding career in this growing field. You will benefit from the contribution of architects and professionals from world-renown practices such as Foster and Partners, Zaha Hadid Architects, Make Architects, SOM, Rogers Stirk Harbour, ARUP, and Atkins.

The programme can be studied in either full-time (3 years or 4 years if you choose to do a placement year) or part-time mode (6 years). Apprenticeship routes have also been introduced in 16/17, in which employers within the construction sector have approached the University to offer Construction Design Management as an apprenticeship route on a part-time basis.Download our yearbook to see our former students' work

The course has a strong grounding in design projects and is particularly recognisable by its ‘hands-on’ approach to architectural design. There is a strong focus on technical studies as well as computer software for Computer Aided Drawing (AutoCAD, Revit, BIM, Adobe Illustrator, Rhino), and building design and energy performance simulations (Integrated Environmental Solutions (IES), and Design Builder). We have world class laboratories and workshops including digital and robotic manufacture (laser cutters, 3D printers, robotic arm).

Much of your learning will focus on project work, and you’ll sometimes be expected to work as part of a multidisciplinary team (with architects, civil engineers, construction managers) to emulate how projects are completed in industry. The course adopts a ‘hands-on approach’ to learning through which you will learn to design and evaluate the technological factors that produce the most efficient building designs.

You’ll learn a variety of physical model making techniques and workshop skills, using a range of media (hand drawing, models, and computer software) to develop your ideas and create project proposals. You’ll also learn how to manage a project from conception to completion, taking into account sustainability aspects as well as regulatory and technical aspects.

Architectural design technology is a subject that could only be fully understood when you see how things works in practice, so you’ll go on many supervised site visits. Our superb connections with industry giants enable us to facilitate sponsored field-trips and real-live design projects that will allow you to experience architectural technology in action - not just in the classroom. We also host industry professionals who provide stimulating guest lectures and networking opportunities. At the end of the academic year, you’ll exhibit your work at our summer showcase.

Students have benefited from trips to prestigious construction projects such as the Tate Modern Phase 2 Extension and the Canary Wharf Crossrail station. You will also have the opportunity to join the prestigious Constructionarium field trip where you’ll plan and partner with a major contractor - in recent years P.J.Careys - to build a real building in a real-life environment.  Each year there is an overseas study trip, where you get to learn from building technologies across the world.

You’ll have opportunities to gain valuable work experience during the course to improve your practical skills, understanding and CV. If you take the work placement option, you’ll benefit from a year’s paid work with a relevant company in your third year.

Guided independent study

We are investing in key areas beyond your studies including our career services, library and well-being, to be available both face-to-face on campus and online with many of these available 24/7. We have new, modern library facilities on both campuses offering inspirational environments for study and research. Libraries contain resources in print and digital formats, a range of study spaces and dedicated librarian who can assist with your learning.

Academic support

Students are supported with any academic or subject related queries by an Academic Advisor, module leaders, former and current UEL students.
If you need a bit of extra help with certain skills such as academic writing, maths or IT, our Skillzone and English for Academic Purposes we offer workshops, drop-in sessions and one-to-one appointments to help our students achieve their potential. You can receive advice and guidance on all aspects of the IT systems provided by the university from our IT Service Desks located on all three campuses. Our Student Support hubs in Docklands and Stratford feature centralised helpdesks to cater for your every need. UEL provides also support and advice for disabled students and those with specific learning difficulties (SPDs).

Workload

Each year you will spend around 300 hours of timetabled learning and teaching activities. These may be lectures, workshops, seminars and individual and group tutorials. Contact hours may vary depending on each module.

The approximate percentages for this course are:
Year 1: scheduled teaching – 300 hours; guided independent study – 900 hours.
Year 2: scheduled teaching – 300 hours; guided independent study – 900 hours.
Year 3: scheduled teaching – 300 hours; guided independent study – 900 hours.

The size of classes can vary depending on the nature of the course, module and activity. This can range from large groups in a lecture theatre setting, to smaller groups taking part in seminars and collaborative work. You will receive your personalised timetable at the beginning of the academic year dependent on your course.

Who will teach on this course

Arman Hashemi (Programme Leader); Alfonso Senatore (Senior Lecturer); Niall Healy (Lecturer); Shahrokh Zandi (Lecturer).

The teaching team includes qualified academics, practitioners and industry experts as guest speakers. Full details of the academics will be provided in the student handbook and module guides.

By completing this course successfully, you are eligible to apply and receive an Associate member status of the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (ACIAT). With appropriate work experience, you can then progress to become a chartered member of the CIAT (MCIAT) and set up your own practice.

With a degree in architectural design technology, you’ll be perfectly placed to provide the crucial link between architects and other professionals and managers in the construction industry. You will apply your expertise in building science and technology to architectural and construction projects. Because of your highly specialist skills, you’ll be involved in managing the design process and using your technical knowledge to come up with innovative solutions to problems.

As an architectural technologist, you have an excellent base for exploring a variety of employment opportunities and for further study related to architectural technology field. You could work for an architectural practice, a large construction company, a design consultancy or a local authority.

Explore the different career options you can pursue with this degree and see the median salaries of the sector on our Career Coach portal