Curious about studying Architectural Design and Technology with Foundation Year - BSc (Hons)at Bucks New University? We've gathered all the key details—entry requirements, modules, fees, and more. Hear from real students by checking out reviews, or take the next step by booking an open day to explore it for yourself.
Bachelor of Science (with Honours) - BSc (Hons)
High Wycombe Campus
Full Time
Sep 2027
4 Year
This course is designed to provide you with a comprehensive knowledge of the architectural design process, and opportunity to acquire the necessary skills required to become a professional architectural technologist. Focusing on these three core areas; design, technology and management of building projects. By the time you graduate you will be able to ensure optimal functionality of structures and buildings, positioning you as a valuable candidate for potential employers. This course is also offered as a four-year programme, including an initial Foundation Year. The Foundation Year will allow you to develop your academic study skills and build confidence in your abilities, identifying your own strengths and development needs for progression onto an undergraduate programme.
Why study BSc (Hons) Architectural Design and Technology at BNU?Taught by the IndustryThe BSc (Hons) Architectural Design and Technology degree is led by a dedicated and experienced course team. Benefit from their industry knowledge and the industry links they bring to the course. Many of our guest lecturers are industry-experts and alongside your lecturers, they’ll nurture your learning and professional development. As well as this we seek provide you with industry brief opportunities, where you’ll apply your knowledge, skills and understanding into real-world contexts. This is gives you the opportunity to network with professionals and get a feel for what a career in the industry is really like.
Holistic LearningThis architectural design and technology course focuses on practical, in-demand skills. Your time spent experiencing studio practices will mirror the professional practices so not only can you ensure buildings function as they are intended to, but you also understand how business within the sector functions.At all levels of the course, employability skills have been built into the programme to prepare learners to gain work experience and acquire skills to secure employment on graduating. These activities will include practitioner visits, CV preparation, mock interviews, and production of a personal portfolio.
Inspiring FacilitiesAt BNU we have a range of state-of-the-art-facilities for you to get hands-on with whilst studying your architectural design degree. You’ll undertake and develop computer-aided design (CAD), data analysis and environmental modelling skills in our dedicated studios - all essential skills for Architectural Technologists to acquire and apply to project work. You will learn AutoCAD, Revit, 3D Studio Max, Rhino and Photoshop through structured lessons in IT/CAD suites and studios. For independent study we offer a four-storey library filled with all the articles, books, research papers, computers and printers.
What will I study?Whilst delving into the three core themes; design, technology and management of building projects, you’ll gain skills in design, using both manual and digital methods, as well as emerging technologies used in the construction of buildings and structures.Central to your learning will be the time you will spend in the design studio using industry-standard design suites to develop and apply your skills on building design projects. You will study a variety of subjects to become proficient in construction technology, materials, legislation and management. You’ll learn how to negotiate and manage the design process, whilst also understanding how to implement technical knowledge in developing practical and creative solutions, which meet existing working practices and legislation.On completion of the course, you will know how to design and detail many kinds of buildings and communicate your designs effectively using the latest industry-standard software. You will learn to specify materials, components and assemblies to satisfy agreed briefs and standards in terms of time, cost and quality.
This module aims to introduce you to the fundamentals for the communication and representation of 3D Design through a variety of mediums and techniques. The projects which you’ll undertake will encourage skilled technical competency as well as creative experimentation.
This module aims to develop an appreciation of the characteristics, properties, behaviour, and application of materials commonly used in design-based disciplines. You’ll be introduced to the relationship between materials for various projects and the properties impacting construction and performance in use. The module includes a laboratory component, and you are expected to participate in hands-on activities.
This module will introduce the different technological concepts used to enable the construction of building elements, from substructure to completion. You will build an understanding of the functional characteristics of building elements and design considerations to be borne in mind when selecting the most suitable technological solution.
The module commences with an investigation of general legal practices and procedures – sources of law, courts and legislation and the nature of dispute resolution. The module also provides an applied appreciation of the range of legal protections and responsibilities faced by those within the construction industry.
This module aims to enable you to develop and justify methods and techniques for preparing detailed design proposals for low-rise residential or commercial buildings using various drawings and other visual presentation techniques. The module links creative architectural design processes with technological, environmental, regulatory, social, and historical contexts.
This module covers digital and innovative technologies with a focus on software applications for 3D modelling, visualisation, and information management. The module will introduce you to the standards and processes used for using Building Information Modelling (BIM) throughout the life cycle of the built facilities.
The module builds upon the knowledge and understanding developed from the level 4 'Building Construction Technology' module with a focus on the technology of high-rise construction. The module will give learners a deeper understanding of how construction technology principles are applied to complex buildings.
This module aims to develop your employability skills and provides opportunities for personal and professional development in relation to the demands of graduate employment. You’ll work in groups on a live brief issued by a construction client to achieve sustainable development.
Upon successful completion of this module, you’ll develop a good understanding of the methods of surveying buildings, in particular methods, procedures, and practices used for recording drawings of buildings (measured survey) and the ways of assessing and identifying defects in buildings and compile design proposal solutions for refurbishment and adaptation.
This module introduces you to the principles and practices of architectural conservation and refurbishment. You'll develop the skills to analyse and assess the historic significance of buildings, understand traditional and contemporary approaches to conservation, and design appropriate interventions that balance preservation with adaptation for new users.
This module aims to enable learners to develop and justify methods and techniques for preparing detailed design proposals for high-rise residential or commercial buildings using a range of drawings and other visual presentation techniques.
This module will enhance your understanding and appreciation of the roles, relationships, and responsibilities that can play a major part in progressing and sustaining your professional practice. Extending their work in relation to career aspirations, learners will develop visual, verbal and written presentation skills to support communication within a range of business, financial and professional frameworks.
Construction projects are complex and dynamic; the management of contracts needs to be thorough and systematic. Effective procurement and agreements are essential to the success of construction projects. You’ll have an overview of procurement strategies and contracts in building projects in national and international contexts.
This module allows you to work as a team to deliver innovation in the design, production, and operation of complex buildings. You are expected to examine the principles underpinning sustainable design, inclusive design, innovative/alternative technologies such as modern construction methods, and the use of renewable energies or new materials.
Using the knowledge and skills developed in previous levels, this module provides an opportunity for you to work on a project idea and utilise a unique design and innovative approaches to formulate and present an appropriate design proposal for a residential or commercial building or facility.
Through a number of workshops, seminars, and one-to-one supervision tutorials, this module provides you with the support required for writing their contextual report on practice. This self-directed theoretical/critical and evaluative piece of written work consists of a detailed account of the critical references surrounding your final major project, evidencing the in-depth research conducted towards the materialisation of their project.
Foundation Year
4.4Bucks New University (BNU) is a student-focused university based in High Wycombe, with over 130 years of educational his...
