Why study Architectural Design Technology?
Posted on: 10 September, 2025
Studying for a BSc (Hons) in Architectural Design Technology with the University of the Built Environment is a pathway to an exciting career in the built environment, with excellent job opportunities. As the sector adapts to digitisation and new regulations such as the Building Safety Act, demand for graduates with strong technical expertise has never been higher.
But what sort of jobs does this degree actually lead to?
Architectural technologist
The primary career path would be towards becoming an architectural technologist, a fast-growing profession with excellent employability prospects. In a nutshell, these are the experts who turn an architect’s vision into reality, bridging the gap between creativity and practical delivery. So, while an architect has a vision and will draw up detailed plans, an architectural technologist will scrutinise these plans from a technical perspective: are these plans are safe, functional, efficient and – our University’s key mantra – sustainable?
Architectural technologist role responsibilities
Architectural technologist responsibilities include translating initial designs into detailed technical drawings and specifications using Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software, selecting appropriate materials and construction methods with a focus on environmental performance, and ensuring compliance with building regulations from inception to completion.
Architectural technologists are skilled problem-solvers, identifying and resolving potential design or technical issues before they arise, while also contributing to project management and, in many cases, leading design teams. They collaborate closely with architects, engineers, surveyors, and contractors, ensuring projects run smoothly across the entire lifecycle. Site visits and inspections form part of their role, verifying that construction aligns with technical requirements and sustainability goals.
Architectural designer
An architectural designer creates building designs, working on functional, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing concepts while often collaborating with registered architects or working under their supervision, especially for larger projects.
Architectural designer role responsibilities
Key tasks include understanding client needs, creating project plans and drawings using CAD software, and ensuring designs meet building codes. Unlike a licensed architect, an architectural designer cannot legally approve plans for complex projects but may handle smaller-scale, simpler projects independently.
Other architectural design technology careers:
Building Information Model (BIM) technician – supports project teams by developing, coordinating, and managing BIMs to ensure accuracy, compliance, and efficient delivery of projects.
Design & build manager (also known as a design manager) – oversees the entire design process of a construction project, ensuring designs are practical, meet project requirements, and adhere to budgets, schedules, and regulations.
Project lead in sustainable building solutions – oversees projects focused on reducing environmental impact through methods like energy efficiency, water conservation, and waste reduction in construction and design.
Built environment technical consultant – provides expert advice and services on buildings, infrastructure, and related systems, covering areas like structural engineering, energy efficiency, smart building technology, and sustainability.
Why choose University of the Built Environment?
Choosing to study with a specialist institution such as University of the Built Environment gives you access to first-class tutors with real-world experience, with modules tailored and updated to the current trends and requirements of the sector.
Marc Fleming, Chartered Architectural Technologist and Deputy Dean, brings decades of industry knowledge and a passion for training the next generation of design technologists. His leadership ensures the programme is both academically rigorous and closely aligned with industry needs.
The University is also a global leader in online education for the built environment with a rich international community. This means that our remote, flexible programmes will allow you to study part-time and flexibly from anywhere in the world, whilst also joining a vibrant, international community of like-minded students and professionals.
If you want to combine creativity with technical expertise, and build a career shaping the sustainable, safe and efficient buildings of tomorrow, the University of the Built Environment’s BSc (Hons) in Architectural Design Technology is the perfect pathway.
Interested? Sign up for a webinar and meet the Programme Leader.
