Mode of Study

Full-time

Start Date

25th Aug 2025, 2 years

Location

City Campus

Applications from International Students Welcome

Overview

This is a technician level qualification that provides a specialist curriculum focused on the application of Computer Aided Design software in a construction specific context underpinned by a Construction Industry specific curriculum. It will equip you with the skills required for employment in this specialist industry sector.

An Architectural Technologist is a specialist in the technological aspects of building design and construction, bridging the gap between design theory and construction practice. 

This course is delivered by highly professional teaching staff with significant Construction Industry experience and a proven track record of bringing out the best in their students.

During your studies you'll:

• Develop your technical knowledge and understanding.
• Develop the Computer Aided Design skills required to excel as an Architectural Technologist.
• Have the opportunity to develop and apply your critical reasoning and analysis skills to solve design problems, using current industry standards and by applying contemporary industry techniques.
• Develop your personal and business skills, equipping you to contribute to the demands of a professional environment.
• You will also benefit from hearing from visiting professionals from a range of disciplines and will have the opportunity to go on site visits around the West of Scotland, giving your learning a strong sense of contemporary relevance.

If you are looking for architectural inspiration? - Our Riverside Campus won ‘The Architectural Excellence Award for a Public Building”.

The course is placed on the Scottish Credit Qualifications Framework at Level 8. 

Entry requirements

Minimum entry requirements

• ​It may be possible to gain entry with an HNC in Computer Aided Architectural Design and Technology. This will depend on the units that have been covered in the HNC.  Students who gain entry with this qualification will require a bespoke infill programme, so each application will be considered on an individual basis.
• You should also have a sound knowledge and be a competent user of ICT.

Additional selection requirements

• You'll be invited for a group and/or individual interview where you will get the opportunity to find out more about the course and tell us why you are interested in this subject area.

ESOL entry requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English should have minimum SQA ESOL National 5 or equivalent for NC/NQ courses and ESOL Higher or equivalent for HNC/D courses.

What you study

• Architectural CAD Tech: Commercial Building Systems.
• Architectural CAD Tech: Advanced Digital Media.
• Architectural CAD Tech: Commercial Buildings Systems.
• Architectural CAD Tech: Structural Design and Detailing.
• Architectural CAD Tech: Animation.
• CAD Model Making.
• BIM: Building Science.
• Conversion and Adaptation of Buildings.
• Fire Safety in Buildings.
• Construction Planning.

After the course

Careers

• Architectural CAD Technician or Building/Civil Engineering Technician.

Continuing Study

• Year 2 or 3 of a related degree programme.
• Chartered Architectural Technologist (MCIAT).