Architecture & Surveying

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National Diploma in Architectural Technology Level 6

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Meet our students and graduates »

This course of study will suit you if you're creative and like the idea of working with people to create their dream home or building. The course content is relevant and fun, you'll get work experience in the architectural industry, and even the opportunity to apply for our awesome student exchange programme with VIA University College in Horsens Denmark.

On completion of this two year industry standard programme you’ll be able, with the appropriate supervision, to work as an architectural technician on small and medium scale building projects from first client contact (including research and design, documentation, tender, contract and administration) through to completion.

We’ll equip you with the skills and knowledge to produce both presentation and contract architectural drawings. You’ll be using modern architectural drawing facilities, Mutoh Track drawing machines and computer aided design equipment.

You’ll benefit from modern architectural drawing facilities, very competitive fees, industry experience including regular local industry field trips, industry-leading CAD technology and facilities.

Content Details

Year One

Course 1 - Construction Elements
Gain knowledge of methods and materials used in construction.

Course 2 - Communication Skills
Develop your communication skills for working with clients.

Course 3 - Building Law and Environment
Learn about legislative requirements in the construction industry.

Course 4 - Design and Preparation
Develop CAD, drawing skills, design skills and drawing documentation in preparation of a small building construction project.

Course 5 - Small Buildings
Use CAD and drawing skills, and apply your cumulative knowledge and competence to produce working drawings for a domestic scale project.

Year Two

Course 6 - Contract Administration
Learn about administrative processes for the construction site.

Course 7 – Design Principles
Extend your knowledge of the history and principles of design.

Course 8 – Construction Methodology
Learn construction methodology for medium to large buildings.

Course 9 – Medium Buildings
Use CAD and drawing skills, and apply your cumulative knowledge and competence to produce working drawings for medium buildings.

Course 10 – Large Buildings
Develop the knowledge and skills to prepare location, assembly and component drawings as well as schedules of finishes for large buildings.

Work Experience

Included in each year of the programme is a work experience component in industry. Details will be advised at the information meeting and in class.

Student Exchange Programme

We have an exchange programme with VIA University College in Horsens Denmark. Graduates of our diploma can apply to continue their studies for one semester or a year, towards VIA’s Bachelor of Architectural Technology and Construction Management (Constructing Architect).

If you are interested in this international opportunity, please contact the Programme Coordinator for further information.

Entry

  • At least 48 credits towards the NCEA Level 2 in four subjects, including credits in English and maths
  • OR sixth form certificate with a total of 20 points or less in the best 4 subjects, including a grade of 5 or less for English
  • OR tertiary qualifications/trade certificates deemed relevant (e.g. NZCE, BE, Carpentry).

Mature students with life skills and/or work experience who do not meet these requirements but have the equivalent ability and experience are encouraged to apply.

English Language Requirements
If you are an overseas student or a new resident and English is not your first language, please note that study at tertiary level requires both written and oral participation.

You will be required to have an IELTS score of 6 or TOEFL score of 550.

Indicative Fees

  • $6,102 - Year 1 incl. course related costs
  • $5,641 - Year 2 incl. course related costs

The standard published fee is applicable for New Zealand citizens and permanent residents only.

An international fee is payable for non New Zealand citizens/permanent residents.

Qualifications Gained

  • National Diploma in Architectural Technology Level 6
  • Site Safe Induction Passport

Career Opportunities

Draughting, architectural project management, construction management, CAD operation/instruction and related careers.

Study Pathways

Bay of Plenty Polytechnic Pathways

Alternative Pathways