Architectural technologists take a building from concept to completion, designing and detailing buildings to bring ideas to life. On this course, you will enhance your flair for design and combine it with an in-depth technical understanding of how buildings work.

You will work on a variety of design projects, from small domestic to large-scale commercial buildings. 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.

This course offers the opportunity to take a ‘sandwich’ year – a year of paid employment in industry which will build your skills and experience. This is usually taken between the second and third year of your degree, typically making your course four years in total. Students who choose the sandwich route find it helps with both their studies and getting a job after graduation. It can build your confidence, contacts, and of course your CV. Leeds Beckett advertise lots of placement opportunities and provide support in helping you find the right placement for you.

You are strongly encouraged to join CIAT and undertake a placement year – it is an opportunity for invaluable industry experience, helping you in gaining employment on graduation. Site visits and live projects, running in conjunction with other courses in the built environment, will further enhance your understanding of working in the field. You will have the opportunity to exhibit your work to visiting professionals from industry.

You will make contacts in the industry through professional development sessions, where experts will review and feedback on your work, and presentations from CIAT (Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists).

The dedicated Computer Aided Design (CAD) suite and specialist software, such as REVIT, will allow you to develop skills in 3D design and building information modelling.