The ICTQual AB Level 6 International Diploma in Architecture & Design is a dynamic and career-focused qualification designed for learners who aspire to build a professional career in the fields of architecture, interior design, and creative construction. This program offers a strong foundation in architectural principles, design methodologies, digital tools, construction technologies, and sustainability practices, empowering learners to transform their ideas into innovative and functional design solutions.
Structured over three years and comprising 36 mandatory units, the diploma takes students on a journey from the fundamentals of architectural drawing, construction methods, and design concepts to advanced practices such as sustainable design, urban planning, digital modelling, project management, and research in design innovation. The curriculum ensures a balance between artistic creativity, technical knowledge, and professional application, preparing graduates to thrive in both local and international architecture and design sectors.
What sets this diploma apart is its emphasis on practical application and industry relevance. Learners engage in project-based work that mirrors real-world architectural challenges, gaining valuable experience in areas such as space planning, building information modelling (BIM), construction technology, and environmental design. The program also highlights professional ethics, leadership, and stakeholder communication, enabling learners to operate effectively in multidisciplinary project teams.
Course Overview
Year 1 – Foundation in Architecture & Design
- Principles of Architecture and Design
- Introduction to Architectural Projects
- Construction Materials and Methods
- Design Theory and Spatial Planning
- Project Planning and Scheduling
- Health, Safety, and Environmental Awareness
- Communication and Stakeholder Management in Design
- Construction Technology Fundamentals
- Financial Management in Architectural Projects
- Quality Assurance and Control in Design
- Legal and Regulatory Frameworks in Architecture
- Professional Ethics and Conduct in Design
Year 2 – Intermediate Architecture & Design Practices
- Advanced Architectural Design Techniques
- Resource Management and Allocation in Projects
- Project Cost Estimation and Budgeting in Design
- Construction Contract Administration
- Procurement and Supply Chain Management
- Project Risk Analysis and Mitigation
- Leadership and Team Management in Design Projects
- Site and Workshop Management in Architecture
- Sustainable Design and Environmental Management
- Project Monitoring and Reporting
- Problem-Solving and Decision-Making in Design Projects
- Communication and Negotiation Skills in Architecture
Year 3 – Advanced Architecture & Strategic Leadership
- Strategic Architectural Project Management
- Advanced Construction and Design Project Planning
- Infrastructure and Urban Design Management
- Innovation and Emerging Technologies in Architecture
- Advanced Risk and Crisis Management in Projects
- Contract Management and Legal Compliance
- Leadership in Architectural Projects
- Advanced Project Control and Performance Measurement
- Project Governance and Compliance in Design
- Research Methods and Project Analysis in Architecture
- Capstone Project in Architecture & Design
- Professional Development and Career Planning
Learning Outcomes – ICTQual AB Level 6 International Diploma in Architecture & Design
Year 1 – Foundation in Architecture & Design
1. Principles of Architecture and Design
- Understand the fundamental principles of architectural design.
- Apply core concepts of form, function, and aesthetics in projects.
- Demonstrate awareness of historical and contemporary design approaches.
2. Introduction to Architectural Projects
- Identify the stages of an architectural project.
- Recognize key roles and responsibilities within project teams.
- Apply introductory project documentation and planning techniques.
3. Construction Materials and Methods
- Understand properties and applications of key construction materials.
- Evaluate construction techniques used in architectural projects.
- Select appropriate materials for different design requirements.
4. Design Theory and Spatial Planning
- Apply theoretical frameworks to architectural design.
- Develop functional and aesthetic spatial layouts.
- Balance creativity with practical usability in design projects.
5. Project Planning and Scheduling
- Use tools and methods for project planning.
- Prepare project schedules and timelines.
- Monitor progress against planned milestones.
6. Health, Safety, and Environmental Awareness
- Identify risks in architectural and construction projects.
- Apply health and safety regulations to design and site practices.
- Promote environmental responsibility in project planning.
7. Communication and Stakeholder Management in Design
- Communicate effectively with clients and stakeholders.
- Develop presentation skills for architectural concepts.
- Manage stakeholder expectations in design projects.
8. Construction Technology Fundamentals
- Understand the use of construction technologies.
- Apply digital tools to support architectural projects.
- Evaluate emerging technologies in construction design.
9. Financial Management in Architectural Projects
- Apply basic budgeting and cost control techniques.
- Manage resources within architectural projects.
- Monitor financial risks and constraints.
10. Quality Assurance and Control in Design
- Understand quality standards in architecture.
- Apply quality assurance procedures in design projects.
- Evaluate project outcomes against benchmarks.
11. Legal and Regulatory Frameworks in Architecture
- Identify legal frameworks governing architectural practice.
- Apply building codes and standards.
- Ensure compliance in design documentation.
12. Professional Ethics and Conduct in Design
- Understand ethical responsibilities in architecture.
- Apply professional codes of conduct.
- Promote integrity and accountability in design practice.
Year 2 – Intermediate Architecture & Design Practices
13. Advanced Architectural Design Techniques
- Apply advanced design processes to complex projects.
- Integrate digital modelling tools into design work.
- Evaluate innovative approaches to architectural design.
14. Resource Management and Allocation in Projects
- Plan and allocate resources efficiently.
- Monitor the use of labour, equipment, and materials.
- Balance project requirements with resource limitations.
15. Project Cost Estimation and Budgeting in Design
- Develop cost estimates for architectural projects.
- Prepare and monitor project budgets effectively.
- Apply cost control methods to design work.
16. Construction Contract Administration
- Understand types of construction contracts.
- Administer contract obligations and variations.
- Manage disputes and compliance issues.
17. Procurement and Supply Chain Management
- Apply procurement strategies in architectural projects.
- Evaluate supplier and contractor performance.
- Manage supply chains for efficiency and reliability.
18. Project Risk Analysis and Mitigation
- Identify risks in architectural and construction projects.
- Develop risk mitigation strategies.
- Monitor and control project risks effectively.
19. Leadership and Team Management in Design Projects
- Apply leadership styles to design teams.
- Manage collaboration across multidisciplinary groups.
- Resolve conflicts within project teams.
20. Site and Workshop Management in Architecture
- Manage site operations for architectural projects.
- Apply safety and efficiency practices in workshops.
- Oversee on-site design implementation.
21. Sustainable Design and Environmental Management
- Apply sustainable design principles.
- Incorporate green technologies into projects.
- Evaluate environmental impacts of design decisions.
22. Project Monitoring and Reporting
- Track project progress against objectives.
- Prepare accurate project reports.
- Use digital tools for project monitoring.
23. Problem-Solving and Decision-Making in Design Projects
- Apply structured problem-solving techniques.
- Make informed decisions in complex design scenarios.
- Evaluate outcomes of design decisions.
24. Communication and Negotiation Skills in Architecture
- Apply professional communication skills.
- Negotiate effectively with clients and contractors.
- Build strong relationships through design communication.
Year 3 – Advanced Architecture & Strategic Leadership
25. Strategic Architectural Project Management
- Apply strategic management principles to architectural projects.
- Lead architectural projects from concept to delivery.
- Align projects with organizational objectives.
26. Advanced Construction and Design Project Planning
- Develop detailed project planning frameworks.
- Apply advanced scheduling and resource tools.
- Monitor complex project performance.
27. Infrastructure and Urban Design Management
- Apply principles of urban planning in architectural projects.
- Manage infrastructure-related design requirements.
- Evaluate the impact of architecture on communities.
28. Innovation and Emerging Technologies in Architecture
- Explore the role of innovation in architecture.
- Apply emerging technologies such as BIM and AI.
- Evaluate the impact of digital transformation on design.
29. Advanced Risk and Crisis Management in Projects
- Identify and respond to project crises.
- Develop advanced risk management plans.
- Lead recovery strategies in challenging situations.
30. Contract Management and Legal Compliance
- Administer advanced contract management processes.
- Ensure compliance with legal requirements.
- Resolve contractual issues effectively.
31. Leadership in Architectural Projects
- Lead architectural teams with vision and strategy.
- Apply transformational leadership techniques.
- Develop future leaders in architecture.
32. Advanced Project Control and Performance Measurement
- Apply advanced control systems in project delivery.
- Measure performance against key indicators.
- Improve project outcomes using performance analysis.
33. Project Governance and Compliance in Design
- Apply governance frameworks in design projects.
- Monitor compliance with policies and regulations.
- Promote accountability and transparency in projects.
34. Research Methods and Project Analysis in Architecture
- Apply research methods to architectural studies.
- Collect and analyse project data.
- Present findings to support design innovation.
35. Capstone Project in Architecture & Design
- Integrate knowledge across architectural disciplines.
- Apply skills to a comprehensive design project.
- Present solutions to real-world architectural challenges.
36. Professional Development and Career Planning
- Identify personal strengths and career goals.
- Develop a professional growth plan.
- Engage in lifelong learning for architecture careers.
Course Benefits of ICTQual AB Level 6 International Diploma in Architecture & Design
- Develops a strong foundation in both creative design and technical construction knowledge.
- Enhances critical skills in project planning, risk management, and sustainability.
- Provides hands-on learning in architectural design, digital tools, and emerging technologies.
- Builds leadership and team management capabilities tailored for design and construction projects.
- Offers comprehensive knowledge of legal, regulatory, and ethical frameworks in architecture.
- Equips learners with financial and resource management skills specific to design projects.
- Encourages innovation and adaptability in modern architectural practices.
- Prepares learners with advanced research and analytical skills through the Capstone Project.
- Strengthens professional communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management abilities.
- Enhances employability and career advancement opportunities in global architecture and design sectors.
After completing this course, learners can progress in the following ways:
- Progress to postgraduate studies such as a Master’s in Architecture, Urban Design, or Construction Management.
- Advance into specialized certifications in Building Information Modelling (BIM), Sustainable Architecture, or Project Management.
- Gain membership in professional bodies such as RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) or CIOB (Chartered Institute of Building).
- Pursue roles such as Architectural Designer, Project Architect, Urban Designer, Design Manager, or Construction Project Leader.
- Establish a pathway towards chartered status and professional recognition in architecture and design fields.
- Enhance career prospects in international construction, consultancy, and design firms.
