Architecture, BSc (Hons)

Course summary

Architecture remains one of the most enjoyable and rewarding professions; in designing new spaces and buildings around our everyday lives and needs, you will be challenged intellectually, artistically and creatively. Architects make a major positive contribution to society by shaping our environment and surroundings, leaving a lasting impact and legacy.This course is professionally accredited by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and Architects Registration Board (ARB). It adopts a hands-on approach to learning with a focus on imagination, communication and context. We run skills sessions to support drawing and model making as an integral part of studio work.Key Course BenefitsThis innovative course has been designed to respond to the challenges of the environmental, economic and social climate of the early 21st century. Coventry is a vibrant, connected city, internationally known for its Centre of Trust, Peace and Social Relations.

• Based in the School of Art and Design, the course instinctively draws expertise from the wide range of creative disciplines on offer. We believe in collaboration – merging studies in art, history and theory, studio and tectonics – providing opportunities to connect with architects, engineers and built environment professionals.

• Centred around studio practice, teaching will encompass design, technology, cultural contexts and communication, together with professional practice. We will aim to develop your understanding of the relationship between global issues, local context and the reality of architecture.

• We have strong links with a growing network of West Midlands practices, many of whom provide input to course management and development as members of our Architecture Advisory Board.

• We have strong links with a growing network of West Midlands practices and RIBA West Midlands, many of whom provide input to course management and development as members of our Architecture Advisory Board. These industry connections also provide potential opportunities for professional placements and collaborative projects. Previously, students have worked with organisations including Theatre Absolute, The Centre for Peace and Reconciliation and the Coventry Canal Trust*.

Year One The first year introduces you to the fundamentals of architecture including design, technology, communication and cultural context, with a look at the history and theory of architecture. We will teach you methods of hand drawing, sketching, model making and orthographic drawing as generators of creative exploration. Modules Construction and Environmental Fundamentals Experimental Design and Communication Spatial Design Material Cultures and Histories Digital Skills 1 Year Two In the second year, you will have the opportunity to consider the importance of the tectonics of architecture and explore the wider holistic contextual implications of emerging contemporary urban planning. You should start to make informed choices about materials, structure and environmental design, using 3D modelling and digital drawing software as a tool for architectural exploration. Modules Assembly and Environmental Systems Urban Design and Communication Residential Design Architectural and Cultural Critiques Digital Skills 2 Placement Year There’s no better way to find out what you love doing than trying it out for yourself, which is why a work placement* can often be beneficial. Work placements usually occur between your second and final year of study. They’re a great way to help you explore your potential career path and gain valuable work experience, whilst developing transferable skills for the future. If you choose to do a work placement year, you will pay a reduced tuition fee* of £1,250. For more information, please go to the fees and funding section. During this time you will receive guidance from your employer or partner institution, along with your assigned academic mentor who will ensure you have the support you need to complete your placement. Final Year The final year consolidates the modules taught in the previous years and provides an opportunity to undertake a comprehensive design project that incorporates the core subjects of design, technology and environment and reflects your own emerging design philosophy. Modules Design, Planning and Ethics Contemporary Debates and Research Interdisciplinary Collaborative Project Comprehensive Design Applied Construction and Environmental Sciences We regularly review our course content, to make it relevant and current for the benefit of our students. For these reasons, course modules may be updated. Before accepting any offers, please check the website for the most up to date course content. For full module details please check the course page on the Coventry University website. *For further information please check the course page on the Coventry University website.