Undergraduate BSc (Hons)

Architectural Engineering

School of Science, Engineering and Environment

Attendance

Full-time

Course

Three year

Next enrolment

September 2024

Introduction

In a nutshell

Successful architectural design is the sweet spot between technology, science and creativity. As we push design boundaries further, and create buildings that are both sustainable and spectacular, choose to study the engineering brains behind the architectural beauty with our BSc Architectural Engineering degree.

Bringing together the architecture and engineering disciplines, this course will provide you with a comprehensive perspective of building design from day one. Gain robust knowledge of building structures as you learn about leading a multidisciplinary approach to building design. Experience action-learning as you join a vibrant student community, learning alongside other students from architects, design technologists and the built environment. 

Guided by international expert tutors, this course will help you to develop career-focused knowledge and skills. Through live briefs and guest lectures from local architecture, you’ll graduate excited and inspired, ready to help change our built environment for the better.

Unsure about this level of study? We also offer Architectural Engineering with a foundation year entry pathway

Start your study journey

Register for our next Open Day to learn more about studying Architectural Engineering, explore our facilities and meet the course team

You will:

  • Explore interactions between a building and its internal and external environments, and the relationships between shape, material, performance, load, and construction
  • Understand the role of nature, people and technology in design, alongside the economic and environmental dimensions that impact on the building design process
  • Be part of a vibrant multidisciplinary learning environment, working with students from other built environment disciplines, including architects, architectural design technologists, building surveyors, construction managers and quantity surveyors
  • Develop key skills required by an architecture professional, including project appraisal, team working, critical analysis and problem-solving
International

students accepted

This is for you if...

1.

You have a real passion for developing, advancing and shaping the future of architectural design

2.

You are creative and an original thinker, keen to develop technical skills in new areas

3.

You studied a mix of maths/science and humanities/arts subjects at A level

Course details

All about the course

Architecture student measuring

Course Delivery

Delivered full-time over three years, you will study a carefully-designed suite of modules which blend architecture and engineering disciplines. As you learn about structural principles, you will explore architecture theory, developing design awareness and an understanding of integral systems.

Our range of modules will introduce you to the architectural design processes in year one, and you’ll begin to use sophisticated software to develop your design skills and learn how to manage design information by year two. In your final year, you’ll continue to develop a design portfolio and complete a final project of your choice where you can present to industry experts.

Learn more about the current course modules in the section below.

Group of architecture students

Learning Experience

Through our enviable location at the heart of Greater Manchester, our expert academic team draw on close industry links with architecture, engineering and construction sectors, to bring you guest lectures, professional networking opportunities and local architectural projects that will support your knowledge and skill progression. 

During year one of your studies, the Principles of Architectural Structure module will introduce you to architectural design, structural performance, and manufacturing technologies. You’ll study in an inspiring, engaging way, so that you are prepared for real world challenges once you start your exciting career.

Based at our green Peel Park campus, you will thrive in our dynamic studio environment. There’ll be plenty of opportunities to tackle real life creative project briefs, sketch ideas and make models, as you fill your Instagram feed with impressive local architecture. As a student at Salford, you’ll also showcase your design skills at our annual Degree show so you will receive an immersive, rewarding learning experience.

Year one

Design Studio 1A

You will be introduced to architectural design thinking through the understanding of the inter-relationships between people and their immediate environment in place making.

Design Studio 1B

You will develop your architectural thinking and appreciate the implications of the inter-relationships between people, the environment and place making through the development of a building design of a low to medium level of complexity.

Design Representation and Modelling

You will be introduced to the concept and techniques of drawing, modelling and alternative forms of representations of architectural design. The module will develop your ability to interpret and produce 2-D and 3-D architectural representations (e.g. plans, sections, elevations, axonometric and perspective projections) and models (e.g. analogue, physical and digital).

History and Theory of Architecture 1

You will be introduced to the canon of western architectural history and its underlying ideological assumptions. It locates the major practices and sites of western architecture in a wide visual and cultural context and critically examines its relevance to the practicing architect today.

Principles of Architectural Structure

This module aims at providing a fundamental understanding of the design principles and behaviours of structural forms, elements and systems in buildings. You will be introduced to nature as a generator of structure. You'll explore the relationship between shape, material, structural performance, loads, assembly methods and construction technology through modelling, analysis, and case studies. You will be able to understand the mutual dependencies between architectural design, structural performance and manufacturing technologies in the past and present through the knowledge of historical and contemporary structural forms and materials. The module also enables you to investigate the implications of nature, people and technology in the design of architectural structures.

New

Construction Technology in Architecture 2

This module builds on your introduction to structure, materials and fabric by introducing you to the challenges for the built environment of the Climate Emergency, and by introducing principles of Environmental Design, Systems and Services. The module will discuss building physics and a building’s fabric, and how its environmental services and systems need to be combined to provide physiological, thermal, visual and acoustic comfort. It will also introduce the need to attend to the physical and psychological health, safety and wellbeing of the occupants and the welfare of those making and maintaining buildings when making design decisions. You will consider how principles of responsive design (both passive and interactive) can be utilised in relation to the principles, elements and techniques of sustainable design of domestic architecture.

Year two

New

Design Studio 2A

This module comprises the further development and formation of an iterative architectural design methodology. It builds on the formation of spatial and formal vocabulary and the interpretation and communication of ideas developed in the Design Studio 1A and 1B modules. You will undertake projects for commercial uses and public spaces and design buildings of moderate complexity. In addition to these non-domestic architectures, you will also be introduced to modularisation and modern methods of construction and the challenges and opportunities these pose to architectural form, function and conceptualisations of space and programme, and of the problem of the particular, from the scale of the architectural detail to the specificities of a place or neighbourhood. You will explore the possibilities they afford for producing innovative architectural designs, which address functional, social, and environmental needs in the context of an historic urban fabric. The brief requires you to produce a medium scale building by introducing your own understanding of users’ technical and environmental needs and create your own specifications for the spaces and activities required. The module will further develop your and ability to apply the principles of architectural design, in relationship to the structural, technological and environmental requirements and deepen your understanding of an iterative and integrated building design process.

History and Theory of Architecture 2

You will gain a broad understanding of the history and theory of architecture focused on the examination of the histories of modern architecture.

Architectural Engineering Design

You will develop your ability to select and apply structural assemblies and stability systems. You will also understand how to apply mechanics to the analysis of continuous structures and analyse soil retaining systems.

New

Design Studio 2B: Performance Modelling and Integrated Design

This module comprises the further development and formation of an iterative architectural design methodology. It builds on the integrated Design approach introduced in Design Studio 2A and further develops this via the notion of performative and performance-based design. Through the module you will undertake projects for public use and design buildings of moderate complexity and further your abilities to contribute to the creation of place in urban, peri-urban or rural contexts. In addition, you will also you will gain the skills and ability to deploy digital technologies such as BIM and Computational Design in the development of design alternatives in a further development of your and ability to apply the principles of architectural design, in relationship to the structural, technological and environmental requirements and deepen your understanding of an iterative and integrated building design process.

New

Construction Technology in Architecture 3

This module further develops your understanding of technological innovation in architecture integrating the parallel strands of Structure and Services introduced to you in year 1 through two core themes central to Building Fabric Design: Design for Climate and Sustainability and Design for Human and Life Safety. Through these themes you will develop competencies in more advanced construction techniques, systems and assemblies for non-domestic buildings, and through this you will extend and develop your technical vocabulary and grasp of building physics and building fabric design for more complex building forms in terms of scale, multiple storeys, and for medium as well as long clear spans.

New

Multi-Disciplinary Design Project

The multidisciplinary module allows you to engage in a multidisciplinary practice-based environment and gain an insight into industrial practice. Utilising a real-world scenario you will work collectively to communicate a project solution to a panel of assessors through varying forms of media. This module is supported with a series of industrial guest speakers to offer real-life practices, procedures, technologies and communication techniques.

Year three

New

Design Studio 3A

This module comprises the development of an inventive approach to architecture and the continued formation of an iterative design methodology. It builds on the formation of spatial and formal vocabulary and the interpretation and communication of ideas developed in previous design modules and asks that you both build upon and challenge accepted performance and evidence-based modes of integrated design. In this module you will investigate the power of design in all its complexity in instigating social, cultural, aesthetic, historical and technological change through proposals that are both inventive and interventionist, whilst evidencing care for the future.

Design Research Project

You will learn to write and deliver an extended and coherent study on a design related topic. On completion, you will demonstrate competency in research skills in support of future learning development. This module will help you to develop the skills of reflective practice through engagement with contemporary architecture and urbanism.

Re-creating the City - Re-use and Regeneration

You will explore the theme of regeneration and application of architecture practice in the regeneration of cities and urban environments.

New

Design Studio 3B

You will develop, apply and test your architectural design skills in the context of a complex design project. You will apply the necessary skills, competencies and understanding of a selected range of theoretical, technical, cultural, historical and professional issues, and the ability to integrate them into your designs. You will expand your design methods to include (fine) art practices, in particular those which focus on the development of spatial interventions.

Applied Architectural Engineering

This module aims to develop your ability to propose structural schemes to bridge voids, build tall and cover space. You will learn to apply risk management to the selection of schemes and understand the effects of accidental loading

Practice Management and Law

This module aims to prepare you for your first year in industry by equipping you with a comprehensive understanding of the profession of architecture. You will develop an understanding of the role of the architect in society. You will learn about the management of the construction industry, the role of the architectural practice and responsibilities of each within the regulatory legal context within which architecture operates

Please note that it may not be possible to deliver the full list of options every year as this will depend on factors such as how many students choose a particular option. Exact modules may also vary in order to keep content current. When accepting your offer of a place to study on this programme, you should be aware that not all optional modules will be running each year. Your tutor will be able to advise you as to the available options on or before the start of the programme. Whilst the University tries to ensure that you are able to undertake your preferred options, it cannot guarantee this.

What Will I be Doing?

TEACHING

As an Architectural Engineering student, you will spend a lot of time in the Architecture studios, where you will develop your knowledge and skills through a blend of theoretical, collaborative and practical formats:

  • Studio projects
  • Projects with other students
  • Lectures
  • Tutorials
  • Directed study
  • One-to-one tutorials (by appointment)
  • Guest lecturers and visits to construction sites, completed buildings etc.

ASSESSMENT

Assessment type will be determined by its ability to meet the desired learning outcomes in each module. Typical assessment types will include:

  • Design projects
  • Essays
  • Case study analysis
  • Precedent studies
  • Design portfolios
  • Examinations

Architecture students also receive the opportunity to take part in our annual degree show and yearbook

School of Science, Engineering and Environment

Rising to the challenge of a changing world, our degree courses are designed to shape the next generation of urbanists, scientists, engineers and industry leaders.

Driven by industry, and delivered by supportive programme teams, you can develop the knowledge and skills to become unstoppable in your career.

Facilities

As an Architectural Engineering student, you will learn in our carefully designed architecture studios provide an inspiring environment to develop ideas, work collaboratively and share best practice.

We also have workshops which house high specification equipment, including laser cutters and 3-D printers, to help you bring your ideas and concepts to life.

Industry Collaboration

When you start this degree with Salford, you are also joining a community making a difference in industry, our local region and in our wider society.

Many of our academics and technicians who support your course also deliver collaborative, interdisciplinary, high-impact work in a range of local and global built environment issues and challenges.

Discover how you are part of something bigger.

Employment and stats

What about after uni?

EMPLOYMENT

This course is designed to help you to develop a range of personal and professional skills which will make you highly employable. These include report writing and presentation skills, IT skills and team work and project management skills.

By successfully completing an architectural engineering degree, a wide range of exciting career opportunities will be open to you. By knowing how to the apply engineering principles and technology to building design, you can use these skills to build a successful career.

Architectural engineering graduates are in demand because of the importance placed on the design, construction and operation of sustainable buildings. Typical employers include architectural practices, central government, local authorities, property developers and construction contractors such as MHA Architects, Walker Simpson Architects, and Mason Gillibrand Architects.

FURTHER STUDY

If you decide to take your studies further, we offer a range of related postgraduate built environment courses. Salford graduates and alumni will also receive a generous fees discount.

MArch Architecture

MSc Project Management in Construction

MSc BIM and Digital Built Environments

MSc Real Estate and Property Management

A taste of what you could become

An Architectural engineer

A Designer

An Urbanist

An Architect

a design project lead

and more...

Requirements

What you need to know

APPLICANT PROFILE

In addition to our academic entry requirements, we also look for certain characteristics in each applicant. Having these characteristics will not only help you to fulfil your academic potential, but they are also essential if you want a successful built environment career.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

All of our courses are taught and assessed in English. If English is not your first language, you must meet our minimum English language entry requirements. An IELTS score of 6.0 (no element below 5.5) is proof of this, and we also accept a range of equivalent qualifications.

Read more about our English language requirements, including information about pathways that can help you gain entry on to our degree courses. If you do not have the English language requirements, you could take our Pre-Sessional English courseor the International Foundation Year to gain entry onto this degree.

ADDITIONAL ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

All candidates must submit a portfolio. Letters of verification confirming that the portfolio is your own work must accompany the portfolio. For example, the letter can use school/college headed paper and be signed by your tutor. For mature students, the letter should be written and signed by someone with an industry connection. 

Please read our guidance for portfolio preparation and submission. Your portfolio must be sent to the Admissions Team: admissionsSEE-UG@salford.ac.uk

Standard entry requirements

GCSE

English Language and Mathematics at grade C/level 4 or above (or equivalent). You must fulfil our GCSE entry requirements as well as one of the requirements listed below.

UCAS tariff points

112 UCAS points

A Level

112 UCAS points

BTEC National Diploma

DMM in a related discipline

BTEC Higher National Diploma

Please contact Admissions for further information.

Access to HE

112 UCAS points

Foundation Degree

Please contact Admissions for further information.

Scottish Highers

112 UCAS points

Irish Leaving Certificate

112 UCAS points

European Baccalaureate

Please contact Admissions for further information.

International Baccalaureate

30 points

Other Qualifications

Please contact Admissions for further information.

International students

We accept qualifications from all around the world. Find your country to see a full list of entry requirements. If you do not have the English language requirements, you could take the International Foundation Year to gain entry onto this degree.

Alternative entry requirements

Salford Alternative Entry Scheme (SAES)

We positively welcome applications from students who may not meet the stated entry criteria but who can demonstrate their ability to pursue the course successfully. Once we receive your application, we'll assess it and recommend it for SAES if you are an eligible candidate.

There are two different routes through the Salford Alternative Entry Scheme and applicants will be directed to the one appropriate for their course. Assessment will either be through a review of prior learning or through a formal test.

Please contact Admissions for further information.

How much?

Type of study Year Fees
Full-time home 2024/25 £9,250.00per year
Full-time international 2024/25 £17,040.00per year

Additional costs

You should consider further costs which may include books, stationery, printing, binding and general subsistence on trips and visits.

International student scholarships

If you are a high-achieving international student, you may be eligible for one of our scholarships. 

Learn more about our latest international scholarships.

Apply now

All set? Let's apply

Enrolment dates

September 2024

UCAS information

Course ID K132

Institution S03