Programme overview
Want a career as an Architectural Technologist or Technician? In this field you’ll use the latest technologies and work alongside architects and construction specialists to turn design concepts into the documents used to construct a building. The New Zealand Diploma in Architectural Technology will give you the skills to design and produce construction documentation for both residential and commercial buildings. This is a high demand field where practical application of knowledge is valuable to kick start your career.
Highlights
- Emphasis on real-world applications using the latest technology of CAD(Computer-Aided Design) and BIM (Building Information Management)
- This qualification is nationally recognised and endorsed by professional organisations
- Good graduate employment opportunities
- Great preparation and easy transition into further Level 7 study in the Bachelor of Construction and the Bachelor of Architectural Studies: cross-crediting available
- Gain exposure and experience to a wide number of construction software
Recommendation on studying full time
Studying full-time is like doing a full-time job. You might only be in lectures and workshops for 16 hrs a week but you are expected to spend another 24 hours a week on self-directed study, doing quizzes, re-reading lecture content and working on assignments. That makes 40 hours.
We recognize many of you want or need to work whilst you are studying but we would not recommend you to do any more than part-time study if you have a full-time job, and don’t let your working hours overlap with your lecture times.
Preparing for study
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Courses and programme content: Look at what courses you'll study in the "Courses and timetables" section.
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Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Prepare for your study by purchasing your PPE. You'll need the right equipment to meet health and safety requirements on-site visits. This includes:
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Safety boots (steel-capped shoes)
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A high-visibility vest
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Hard hat
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Admission requirements
What you will need to study this programme.
Domestic students
International students
Academic requirements
As a part of this requirement, you must be at least 16 years of age and meet one of the following;
- All applicants must be at least 16 years of age when they begin their studies, and they should meet the country-specific admission requirement or
- Successful completion of relevant programme
And English entry requirements;
If English is not your first language, you will also need at least one of the following qualifications:
- Evidence of an IELTS (Academic) band score of at least 6 with no band score lower than 5.5 or
- Evidence of English language proficiency as outlined in the NZQA Rules on the Unitec English Language Requirements for International Students Web-page.
Don’t meet these Academic requirements?
- If you don’t meet the academic criteria, our Bridging Education Programmes can help you qualify. Simply apply online, and we’ll discuss your next steps.
- If you don’t meet the above criteria, special or discretionary admission may apply; your eligibility will be determined at the interview.
For more information, download the programme regulations (PDF 256 KB)
Courses and timetables
For more details on the courses including timetables, please click on the course names below.
| Courses | Credits | Aim |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction to Construction (CONS5001TP) | 15.0 credits (0.125 EFTS) | The aim of this course is to develop knowledge of roles, responsibilities, documentation and communication in the construction environment. |
| Materials and Structural Principles (CONS5002TP) | 15.0 credits (0.125 EFTS) | The aim of this course is to develop knowledge and skills of structural principles and the properties of materials and finishes applicable to building projects. |
| Environment (CONS5003TP) | 15.0 credits (0.125 EFTS) | The aim of this course is to develop the knowledge and skills to evaluate site and building limitations including environmental impacts and sustainable methods of construction. |
| Services (CONS5004TP) | 15.0 credits (0.125 EFTS) | The aim of this course is to develop knowledge and skills relevant to the purpose, operating principles, coordination, and legislative requirements required to manage a range of services in small, medium, and large buildings. |
| Construction 1 Residential (CONS5005TP) | 15.0 credits (0.125 EFTS) | The aim of this course is to develop and apply knowledge and skills related to structures, building envelope and the interior for a small building. |
| Drawing 1 (CONS5706TP) | 15.0 credits (0.125 EFTS) | The aim of this course is to develop graphical skills and knowledge to prepare design and construction documentation. |
| Scoping and Preliminary Design 1 (CONS5707TP) | 15.0 credits (0.125 EFTS) | The aim of this course is to develop the knowledge and skills to develop a preliminary architectural design for a small building project. |
| Documentation 1 (CONS5708TP) | 15.0 credits (0.125 EFTS) | The aim of this course is to develop the knowledge and skills to prepare the documentation required for the construction of small buildings. |
| Construction 2 Commercial (CONS6001TP) | 15.0 credits (0.125 EFTS) | The aim of this course is to develop the knowledge and skills to select and incorporate foundation methods, structural systems, building envelope and the interior for medium and large buildings. |
