Architectural Design and Technology
Architectural design and technology sits at the boundary between architecture and building engineering, combining the creative and spatial thinking of design with the technical knowledge needed to turn architectural concepts into buildings that are safe, efficient and well-built. Where architecture degrees focus on design as a studio-led artistic and cultural practice, architectural technology is concerned with how buildings are specified, detailed and constructed, making it a discipline with strong links to the construction industry and professional building practice.
At Southampton Solent University, this three-year programme is professionally accredited and delivers industry-specific skills and experience alongside a clear progression path to postgraduate study. The programme includes a foundation year for students who benefit from additional academic preparation before the main degree. You will develop skills in architectural drawing and design, building information modelling, technical specification, construction technology, project management and the regulatory frameworks that govern how buildings are designed and built.
The programme's professional orientation means that you are developing competencies that are directly applicable to employment in architectural practices, construction companies, local authorities and property development.
Graduates in architectural design and technology typically pursue careers as architectural technologists, building information modelling managers, technical architects, project managers and building surveyors. The professionally accredited route provides a direct pathway to chartered status with the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists, which is a recognised professional qualification in the construction and built environment sector. Postgraduate study in architectural technology, building engineering, construction project management or sustainability in the built environment is available for those who want to deepen their expertise or specialise.
The construction industry offers consistent demand for technically competent architectural professionals.