Skip to Content

Courses

Postgraduate Programme Specification

PgCert Professional Practice in Architecture

Academic Year 2022/23

A programme specification is required for any programme on which a student may be registered. All programmes of the University are subject to the University's Quality Assurance processes. All degrees are awarded by Queen's University Belfast.

Programme Title PgCert Professional Practice in Architecture Final Award
(exit route if applicable for Postgraduate Taught Programmes)
Postgraduate Certificate
Programme Code ARC-PC-PP UCAS Code HECoS Code 100122 - Architecture - 100

ATAS Clearance Required

No

Health Check Required

No

Portfolio Required

Applicants are required to provide a CV and complete a questionnaire as part of the application stage and should be submitted via the DAP

Interview Required

--

Mode of Study Part Time
Type of Programme Postgraduate Length of Programme Part Time - 1 Academic Year
Total Credits for Programme 60
Exit Awards available No

Institute Information

Teaching Institution

Queen's University Belfast

School/Department

Natural and Built Environment

Quality Code
https://www.qaa.ac.uk/quality-code

Higher Education Credit Framework for England
https://www.qaa.ac.uk/quality-code/higher-education-credit-framework-for-england

Level 7

Subject Benchmark Statements
https://www.qaa.ac.uk/quality-code/subject-benchmark-statements

The Frameworks for Higher Education Qualifications of UK Degree-Awarding Bodies
https://www.qaa.ac.uk/docs/qaa/quality-code/qualifications-frameworks.pdf

Architecture (2010)

Accreditations (PSRB)

ARB

Date of most recent Accreditation Visit 01-07-21

RIBA

Date of most recent Accreditation Visit 30-11-21

Regulation Information

Does the Programme have any approved exemptions from the University General Regulations
(Please see General Regulations)

N/A

Programme Specific Regulations

N/A

Students with protected characteristics

N/A

Are students subject to Fitness to Practise Regulations

(Please see General Regulations)

No

Educational Aims Of Programme

This programme meets the requirements of the RIBA, ARB and EU Directive 85/334 to qualify as an Architect under the 1997 Architects Act. The main aims are:

To transpose into practice the academic professional studies input provided at Parts 1 and 2.

To provide a wider understanding of the full responsibility of the architect in contractual, administrational, managerial, legal and procedural aspects of professional life.

To engender a high level of competence commensurate with the professional accountability of the architect, and an appreciation of the role of the architect in society and the construction industry.

To instill ethical attitudes and responses.

To impact a concept of professional judgement with integrity and trust.

To inculcate the attitude towards continuing professional development as an on-going and essential requirement for the architect.

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes: Cognitive Skills

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

Demonstrate an appreciation of the architect's obligation to society and the profession

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

Demonstrate a sufficient awareness of the limits of their competence and professional experience to ensure they are unlikely to bring the profession into disrepute.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

Demonstrate an overall competence and the ability to behave with integrity, in the ethical and professional manner appropriate to the role of architect.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

Learning Outcomes: Transferable Skills

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

Demonstrate effective communication and presentation

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

Demonstrate effective personal organisation and self-management

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

Demonstrate an ability to work autonomously.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

Learning Outcomes: Knowledge & Understanding

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

A knowledge of the briefing process

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

A knowledge of forms and terms of appointment

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

A knowledge of the means of professional remuneration

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

A knowledge of methods of dispute resolution, conciliation, adjudication, arbitration, and litigation

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

A knowledge of the execution of appropriate programmed and coordinated project tasks.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

A knowledge of relevant law, legislation, guidance and controls relevant to architectural design and construction.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

A knowledge of the nature of legal business entities, office systems, administration procedures and the relevant legislation

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

A knowledge of site organisation, mobilisation and the establishment of appropriate lines of communication in relation to the specific responsibilities of the building team

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

A knowledge of legislation on health and safety and its application to design and construction

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

A knowledge of the range of ongoing specialist panels of advisory, consultative or government bodies which have the responsibility for developing policies which guide or control construction industry practices

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

A knowledge of the size and relative importance of the construction industry to other sectors of the national and international economy and the role of the profession relative to the industry

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

A knowledge of the overlapping interests of organisations representing the built environment and their relation to the role of the architect

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

Professional ethics

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An awareness of the various techniques for the marketing of professional services and how architects commissions are obtained

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An awareness of national and international trends for the distribution and commissioning of architectural projects

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination..

An understanding of professional ethics

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of the architect's obligation to society and the protection of the environment

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of professional regulation, conduct and discipline

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of institutional membership, benefits, obligations and codes of conduct

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of attributes of integrity, impartiality, reliability and courtesy

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of time management, recording, planning and review

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of effective communication, presentation, confirmation and recording

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of flexibility, adaptability and the principles of negotiation

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of autonomous working and taking responsibility within a practice context

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of continuing professional development.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of the range of services offered by architects and delivering those services in a manner prioritising the interests of the client and other stakeholders:

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of types of clients, their priorities and the management of the relationship

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of briefing, organising and the programming of services appropriate to appointment

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of architects' contracts, terms of engagement, scope of services and relevant legislation

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of obligations to stakeholders, warranties and third party rights

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of communication, progress reporting and the provision of appropriate and timely advice

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of budget and financial awareness and cost monitoring or control

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of responsibility for coordination and integration of design team input

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of invoicing, payment of fees and financial management

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of intellectual property rights and copyright law

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of duty of care, professional liability, negligence and professional indemnity including insurance.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of the legal context within which an architect must operate, and the processes undertaken to ensure compliance

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of the relevant UK legal systems, civil liabilities and the laws of contract and tort

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of planning and Conservation Acts, guidance and processes

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of building regulations, approved documents and standards, guidance and processes

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of land law, property law and rights of other proprietors

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of terms within construction contracts implied by statute

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of health and safety legislation and regulations

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of statutory undertakers and authorities, their requirements and processes

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of environmental and sustainability legislation

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of historic buildings legislation

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of accessibility and inclusion legislation.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of business priorities, required management processes and risks of running an architectural practice, and the relationship between the practice of architecture and the UK construction industry.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of the roles of architectural practice in the construction industry

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of external factors affecting construction and practice at national and international levels

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of practice structures, legal status and business styles

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of personnel management and employment-related legislation

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of practice finance, business planning, funding and taxation

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of marketing, fee calculation, bidding and negotiation

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of resource management and job costing

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of administration, quality management, Quality Assurance (QA) systems, recording and review

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of staff development, motivation, supervision and planning

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of team working and leadership

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of UK construction and contract law, construction procurement processes and the roles of built environment professionals, contractual relationships, the obligations upon an architect acting as contract administrator, job-related administrative systems and the management of projects in the context of the candidate's professional experience

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of the effect of different procurement processes on programme, cost, risk and quality

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of collaboration in construction and provisions for team working

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of tendering methods, codes, procedures and project planning

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of forms of contract and sub-contract, design responsibility and third party rights

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of application and use of contract documentation

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of roles of design/construction team members and their interaction

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of duties and powers of a lead consultant and contract administrator

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of site processes, quality monitoring, progress recording, payment and completion

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

An understanding of claims, litigation and alternative dispute resolution methods.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

Learning Outcomes: Subject Specific

On the completion of this course successful students will be able to:

Demonstrate the necessary skills to behave with integrity, in the ethical and professional manner appropriate to the role of architect.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

Demonstrate the necessary skills to provide a competent service, both singly and as part of a team, including understanding of client needs, appropriate communication, programming, coordination and competent delivery.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

Demonstrate the necessary skills to positively interact with statutory and private bodies or individuals, and competently deliver projects within diverse legislative frameworks.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

Demonstrate the necessary skills to engage in business administration and ability to resource, plan, implement and record project tasks to achieve stated goals, either individually or within a team.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

Demonstrate the necessary skills to plan project-related tasks, coordinate and engage in design team interaction, execute effective contract communication and resolve construction-related challenges and disputes.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Lectures, seminars and workshops.

Methods of Assessment

Written examinations, case study, practical training record, CV, evaluation of experience and oral examination.

Module Information

Stages and Modules

Module Title Module Code Level/ stage Credits

Availability

Duration Pre-requisite

Assessment

S1 S2 Core Option Coursework % Practical % Examination %
Professional Practice in Architecture ARC7002 7 60 YES YES 10 weeks N YES -- 50% 0% 50%

Notes

No notes found.