The course is structured around design module projects present in every year, increasing in complexity from the domestic to the urban development scale, with the integration of Computer Aided Design and construction technology modules in particular informing the design process.
You will be assisted, in the Design Studio, in applying the concurrent knowledge gained in the other modules you study in the same year to your designs. For example the domestic construction technology you study in Year 1 will help you develop your own designs for shelters and houses in the design module you’ll complete in that year.
You will continue this process in Years 2 and 3 as well by developing your cumulative knowledge across the all the years so by the time you get to the final design project in your third year, you’ll be applying specialisms from across your whole time as a student.
Year 1 (Foundation Year)
In the Foundation Year you will study learning styles and methods, show your awareness of current affairs and reinforce your ability to work with quantities and materials. Other modules will introduce sketching and drawing, awareness of the built and natural environment and group work on projects relating to the built environment.
You will be expected to attend lectures on two days each week and then do your reading and assignment writing on other days. Each of two semesters will have up to 14 weeks of teaching.
Modules
- Graphical Communication in the Built Environment
- Number in the Built Environment
- Sustainability and the Environment
- Built Enviroment Project
- The Skills You Need
- Contextual Studies
Year 1 (Level 4)
At Level 4 studies are introductory and broad. For example, Construction Technology 1, will explore construction at a domestic level and supplies the technical knowledge which directly underpins the Architectural Design & Technology 1 module. The design module, progressed through a series of domestic scaled projects, also incorporates a significant amount of dimensional surveying, and traditional drawing and model making techniques, enabling the exploration of three dimensional forms.
Modules
- Architectural Design & Technology 1
- Construction Technology 1
- Computer Aided Design
- Site Appraisal
- Sustainable Development
- Academic and Professional Development
Year 2 (Level 5)
At Level 5 the Architectural Design & Technology 2 module is centred on the development of a non-domestic building and other projects, undertaken individually and in groups, which examine alternative environmental strategies and explore the influence of existing buildings on the environment. Project development is subject to a rigorous series of tutorials and peer group critiques. The technological theme is broadened to encompass Architectural Structures as well as deepened by the Construction Technology 2 module which focuses on commercial buildings.
Modules
- Architectural Design & Technology 2
- Architectural Structures
- Construction Technology 2
- Planning and Building Control
- Development Management
Year 3 (Level 6)
The core of the Level 6 work is centred on the main individual and group projects in Architectural Design & Technology 3 which contains the research and analytical elements associated with a dissertation. The intention at this level is to widen the student’s awareness of the increasing complexity of the design process and its integration with more complex technology through the Construction Technology 3 module, which explores modern methods of construction.
Modules
- Architectural Design & Technology 3
- Construction Technology 3
- Inter-Professional Studies
- Health & Safety
- Urban Renewal
All the modules are CORE to your course, with the Architectural ones being specific to just Architectural Design Technology students, and further modules being shared with other students from the Built Environment. These shared modules allow you to mix with students with a broad range of experiences in the construction industry, as well as school leavers, part time students, and European and International students.
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.
BSc (Hons) Architectural Design Technology
UCAS code: 28L4
Experience of the Construction Industry or design of some kind is one way to access this course and each potential student will be offered an interview at which they can state their case for admission to the course.
Older academic qualifications that may not ordinarily be considered may also be taken in to account.
If you have studied in another European country, please check the Entry Requirements for your qualification.
Part-time applicants should apply using this form.
International Students
If you are an international student please visit the countries page and select your country to see the relevant Academic and English language entry requirements.
Click here for more information on the Chartered Institute of Building Wales branch.
Foundation year assessment will be by a variety of methods including presentations, portfolio of observations, worksheets and written work. The Glyndwr Virtual Learning Environment will support your learning and will be a repository of learning materials.
The overall strategy for the Built Environment as a whole is to ensure that assessment:
- provides the opportunity for learners to demonstrate achievement of the learning outcomes at each level of study;
- allows learners to demonstrate achievement at the threshold and exemplary levels;
- reflects the requirements of practice;
- increases employability;
- is sufficiently varied in order to accommodate different learning styles; and
- provides opportunities for diagnostic, formative and summative feedback.
Your work will include design presentations, group and individual presentations relating to non-design modules, the creation of portfolios, essays and technical reports as well as practical assessments relating to surveying etc.
All your work is assessed by these methods and there are no examinations; something we were congratulated on by the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists who view practical assessments as a far better learning method for Architectural Technologists. Therefore methods of assessment have an emphasis on practical tasks based on the simulation of ‘real life’ situations to prepare you for the working world, and gain abilities valued by potential employers.
Teaching and learning
Wrexham Glyndŵr University is committed to supporting our students to maximise their academic potential.
We offer workshops and support sessions in areas such as academic writing, effective note-making and preparing for assignments. Students can book appointments with academic skills tutors dedicated to helping deal with the practicalities of university work. Our student support section has more information on the help available.
With all assessments you will be fully supported by the teaching team; including assigning you a personal tutor you can speak to about any issues you have during your time on the course.
Work is undertaken both individually and in groups. You will be encouraged to think independently, critically and logically to effectively communicate appropriate design solutions. The course aims to inspire professionalism, design flair, technological competence and originality.
The Careers & Zone at Wrexham Glyndŵr University is there to help you make decisions and plan the next steps towards a bright future. From finding work or further study to working out your interests, skills and aspirations, they can provide you with the expert information, advice and guidance you need.
While the aim of this course is for you to become an Architectural Technologist, and then when you’ve gained experience, a Chartered Architectural Technologist, graduates of the course have gone on to become:
- Project Managers
- Construction Site Managers
- Computer Aided Design Technologists
- Designers specialising in restoration work, interior design, and product design
You do not have to pay your tuition fees upfront.
Wrexham Glyndŵr University’s tuition fees for 2019/20 for a full-time undergraduate degree course are £9000 per year.
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 FAQs section of those pages.
You can see the full programme specification here.
If you’re looking for a place to stay while you study then why not take a look at our accommodation section to get more information, including prices.
Those studying at our Mold Road campus have the choice of Wrexham Village or Snowdon Hall, while students at our Northop campus can stay at Corbishley Hall, our on-campus halls of residence.
