Architecture, Surveying & The Built Environment BTEC Extended Diploma

Course code: FTB056

School of Architecture, Construction & Built Environment

The Programme

This course consists of 18 units related to the construction industry. It gives you an in-depth insight into all aspects of industry such as surveying, drawing, computer drawing, design processes, planning processes, construction technology and the science of building materials. It is 100% coursework assessed through a range of written reports, a portfolio of drawings, practical exercises, work within groups, and presenting design ideas to clients. Areas covered include health and safety, construction and the environment, mathematics in construction, science and materials, construction technology, land and building surveying, control of resources, tendering, graphical detailing, environmental science, building regulations, design procedures, building services and ICT/CAD.

There is an emphasis upon exploring the construction and design processes through role play and design case studies. For example, year one students worked in groups to present their designs to clients for the renovation of some old barns into an outdoor activity centre and managers accommodation. This activity provided students with a practical experience to explore a range of careers linked to construction.

The Programme Content

You will study health, safety and welfare, in particular the applicable law and the risk assessment process, construction science and materials where you will learn about the different materials in use and their properties as well as looking at how buildings behave under load.

You will also study construction and the environment, here you will learn about the environmental aspects of construction such as sustainability, green building and environmental impact, land surveying. In this module you will learn how to measure and draw an existing building, how to take levels and measure angles as well as learning how to set out a small building.

In construction technology and design you will study the design process and those responsible for achieving the design with budget and legal constraints, and how technology affects the design process, in graphical detailing, you will learn to draw using traditional methods such as drawing board and set squares. This leads onto drawing with CAD

Entry Requirements

Five GCSEs at grade C or above in Maths, English and Science. Other qualifications will be considered on a case by case basis.

Costs

You may be required to purchase safety clothing. You will need drawing equipment - pens, paper etc (details will be provided on request). Students are encouraged to buy the text book accompanying the course*.

Venue

Barnstaple, Main Site

Progression

Following completion of the course you will be able to progress to our Higher National Certificate in Construction here at Petroc, or you may wish to progress to university to study for a degree. It is becoming an increasingly important route into architecture that can avoid the high university fees, as students gain local employment and qualify via the workplace.

Length of Study

Two years.

Academic Year

This course starts in the 2013 / 2014 academic year.