Buckinghamshire New University

What you'll study

Study is organised around core themes: architectural design, construction technology, materials, legislation and project management. Key year‑one modules introduce representational techniques and model making, material behaviour, fundamental building construction, legal contexts for construction, design principles for low-rise buildings, and digital modelling including BIM standards. Year‑two core modules include a placement in Architectural Design and Technology and further study in advanced construction technology focusing on high‑rise construction.

• Design Tools 1 - Model Making and Hand Drawing (20 credits): fundamentals of 3D communication across media; technical competency and creative experimentation.
• Science and Materials for Designers (20 credits): properties, behaviour and application of commonly used materials and how they impact construction performance.
• Building Construction Technology (20 credits): technological concepts across building elements from substructure to completion and functional considerations for selecting solutions.
• Building Regulations and Legal Contexts (20 credits): overview of legal practices, sources of law, dispute resolution and industry legal responsibilities.
• Architectural Design Principles (20 credits): methods for producing detailed design proposals for low‑rise residential or commercial buildings, linking creative design with technological and regulatory considerations.
• Digital Modelling (20 credits): 3D modelling, visualisation and information management tools; introduction to Building Information Modelling (BIM) processes and standards.
• Year 2 core examples: Architectural Design and Technology Placement (20 credits); Advanced Construction Technology (20 credits) which builds on level 4 construction knowledge toward high‑rise technology.

Entry requirements

A typical offer requires a UCAS tariff of 88–112 points, which can be achieved through A levels, T levels, BTEC or an Access to Higher Education course in a relevant subject. A minimum of two full A‑levels (or equivalent) is required. All applications are considered individually and applicants will be asked to complete an interview as part of the selection process.

Career prospects

On graduation you will have practical and technical competence to work as an architectural technologist or in related roles within project teams. The course develops skills in designing, detailing and specifying materials and assemblies, coordinating procurement and contract procedures, and using industry software—preparing you to contribute to the delivery of building projects while meeting time, cost and quality requirements.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

While specific scholarships and bursaries are not detailed on the programme page, prospective students should explore university-wide funding pages, government student finance options, and industry or regional awards relevant to construction and architecture. Early application and checking eligibility criteria can improve chances of securing support.