BEng (Hons) Architectural Engineering with Foundation Year

Entry year:
2025/26
Start date:
September
Study mode:
Full-time
Course duration:
4 years FullTime, 5 years Placement year
Campus:
City
UCAS Code:
4L63
Grades/points required:
CCD-CCC (88-96)

Why study Architectural Engineering with Foundation Year at Liverpool John Moores University?

  • LJMU ranked 16th in the UK for construction, surveying and planning courses (The Guardian University Guide 2025)
  • LJMU ranked 8th university in the UK for building degrees (The Times UK University Rankings 2025)
  • Course developed in partnership with practising architectural engineers
  • Degree covers both the domestic sector and commercial buildings, new and refurbished
  • Opportunity to undertake a years industrial work placement
  • Dedicated Industry Unit to identify both placement opportunities and potential employers, both in the UK and overseas
  • Annual employers day event helps students find placements and make useful industry contacts
This course is also available as a Foundation Year
99% of graduates are in full-time work within a year
Study abroad at 100+ partner universities worldwide
2,000+ PCs and loan laptops on campus

About your course

The BEng (Hons) Architectural Engineering with Foundation Year at Liverpool John Moores University is the ideal course if you are interested in this subject but lack the necessary qualifications to study it at degree level.

About the Foundation Year

The Foundation Year is ideal if you have the ability to study for a degree but do not have the qualifications to enter directly onto the Architectural Engineering honours degree programme. Once you pass the Foundation Year you will progress directly onto the first year of the honours degree. If you are a full-time UK student, you will qualify for student financial support for the full duration of your course (subject to eligibility criteria).

We recognise that you may not have the required levels of mathematical and technical knowledge and so Foundation Year (Level 3) modules focus on these areas. We also place strong emphasis on transferable skills, such as presentation, teamwork and report writing which will be useful in any career you choose to pursue once you graduate.

About the BEng (Hons) Architectural Engineering Degree

The design of innovative, low carbon buildings can help to reduce the threat of global warming, and the further degradation of the natural environment. The Architectural Engineering profession aims to address the necessity for energy efficient buildings while still providing comfortable and aesthetically pleasing internal environments.

Modern living depends upon the engineering services that are an integral part of buildings, and these systems consume a significant percentage of the energy used in the UK. Architectural engineers operate as part of a professional team alongside architects, structural engineers, quantity surveyors and other construction professionals to ensure that buildings continue to function efficiently while de-carbonising the energy supply. They need to be technically competent and practical in outlook, but also good communicators as they give advice to a wide range of people.

This programme has been developed in partnership with practising professionals and will help you gain the skills required to design and integrate complex building engineering systems within an aesthetically pleasing building envelope, such that internal environmental conditions can be closely controlled and energy use is minimised.

In Level 4, you will be introduced to the basic underpinning engineering, scientific and mathematical principles, plus architectural and design philosophies. The technology focus at this point applies mainly to the domestic sector. In Level 5, your knowledge will be extended to encompass commercial buildings, both new and refurbished, and is applied to the design of systems for complex buildings. You will also have the opportunity to complete an optional placement year with a suitable employer. Level 6 of the BEng course includes the modelling and design of buildings, and the simulation of building services systems within complex buildings.

In addition you will be exposed to real, vocationally relevant project work with a focus on the promotion of sustainability. You will have the opportunity to carry out research in an area that you find particularly interesting. Projects are integrated at all levels of the degree, with materials and supervision provided by employers so you can replicate real-life scenarios in your work.

Additional course costs

There are no travel costs for day site visits. Optional residential study visits in the UK and abroad will have costs involved. Locations of such visits may be subject to change.

Course modules

What you will study on this degree

Further guidance on modules

Modules are designated core or optional in accordance with professional body requirements, as applicable, and LJMU’s Academic Framework Regulations. Whilst you are required to study core modules, optional modules provide you with an element of choice. Their availability may vary and will be subject to meeting minimum student numbers.

Where changes to modules are necessary these will be communicated as appropriate.

Core modules

Algorithms and Computing
10 credits

This module aims to provide an introduction to technical computing and the application of computers in the implementation of simple algorithms.

Engineering and Technology Practice
20 credits

This module aims to introduce the student to some of the academic and practical skills that will support their progression in an engineering and technology focused higher education environment.

Foundation Mathematics for Engineering and Technology 1
20 credits

This module aims to provide you with the mathematical knowledge, understanding and skills which are required to use mathematics as an analytical tool in engineering and technology subjects.

Foundation Mathematics for Engineering and Technology 2
20 credits

This module aims to build upon the material covered in Mathematics 1 by exploring more advanced topics in Mathematics. This includes an introduction to elementary techniques in Calculus.

Introductory Foundation Physics
20 credits

The aim of this module is to provide basic knowledge of electricity mechanics, materials and waves for those who have not studied A-level physics to be able to study an engineering or technology degree.

Additional Foundation Physics
20 credits

The aim of this module is to provide basic knowledge of mechanics, thermodynamics, materials, fields and electronics for those who have not studied A-level physics to be able to study an engineering or technology degree.

Programming for Engineers
10 credits

This module will help you to become conversant with a range of engineering oriented computer programming environments and their applications. You will develop problem solving skills in computing with applications to engineering and technology and you'll be introduced to the software development process within an engineering context.

Core modules

Introduction to Construction Technology
20 credits

This module introduces students to construction techniques associated with the production of high and low rise commercial and industrial framed buildings, both new build and refurbishment.

Science and Materials
20 credits

This module aims to enable students to apply appropriate scientific and analytical methods to investigate the performance and behaviour of common building materials. We aim to provide students with an appreciation of the common scientific principles associated with environmental conditions inside buildings.

Professional and Digital Skills for Engineers
20 credits

In this module you will be introduced to software that can be used for professional engineering design and simulation. The module will also introduce you to professional behaviour requirements for engineers and the academic and digital literacy skills necessary for further study.

Engineering Mathematics
20 credits

This module develops knowledge and understanding of the mathematics underpinning engineering, and how you would apply these techniques within an engineering context.

Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Principles
20 credits

This module introduces the fundamental concepts and principles of mechanical and electrical engineering, heat transfer, thermodynamics and fluid mechanics, and the application of these to engineering problems in the built environment.

Design Project 1
20 credits

This module introduces the fundamental skills needed for the design process. It will equip you with the fundamental tools, including the necessary IT skills, to carry out a building services engineering design project. You will also develop your written, verbal, graphical and presentation skills.

Core modules

Procurement and Contracts
20 credits

This module provides an comprehensive understanding of contract management, administration and the influence of procuring suppliers and specialists to optimise contract performance.

Mechanical Engineering for Buildings
20 credits

In this module you will develop your understanding of the principles of heat transfer, thermodynamics and general engineering. You will also learn about the application of these principles to sustainable and energy efficient design and the operation of building engineering systems, plant and equipment. You will be able to utilise appropriate mathematical methods to solve mechanical engineering problems.

Electrical Engineering for Buildings
20 credits

This module will help you develop an appreciation of electrical principles and how you relate them to the practical processes applied in the design of electrical engineering services in buildings. Students are provided with the skills and knowledge required to appreciate industry standard data and critically apply this to analyse the theoretical concepts in typical design techniques. 

Site Construction Management
20 credits

This module develops the students' construction management knowledge and skills in the construction production process.

Applied Mathematics
10 credits

This module helps you develop knowledge and understanding of the probability theory and statistics underpinning engineering, and to apply these techniques within an engineering context. You will further develop the knowledge and understanding of relevant mathematical techniques underpinning engineering, and apply these within an engineering context.

Design Project 2
20 credits

This module provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to interpret the mechanical and electrical building services needs and requirements of a range of simple and moderately complex buildings and develop practical schemes. You will refine the skills necessary for the development, management and successful completion of a significant project, including written, verbal, graphical and presentation skills.

The Professional Environment
10 credits

This module allows students to prepare for their transition from classroom learning to operating in professional practice environments. This includes exploration of how engineering fits in the wider construction industry and the various communication methods required to co-ordinate projects and comply with relevant contractual agreements.

Optional Modules

Study Year Abroad - Architectural Engineering
120 credits

The aim is to provide students with an additional year of study at an approved overseas partner that will complement their programme at LJMU. This is an additional year of full-time study at an approved higher education institution. The modules to be studied must be agreed in advance, and must be appropriate for the student's programme of study. Assuming successful completion of this year, mark-bearing credit will be awarded by the Faculty Recognition Group. The grade conversion scale to be used will be made available in advance of the year abroad.

Sandwich Year - Architectural Engineering
120 credits

The aim is to provide students with an extended period of work experience at an approved partner that will complement their programme of study at LJMU. This will give students the opportunity to develop professional skills relevant to their programme of study as well as the attitude and behaviours necessary for employment in a diverse and changing environment. This extended placement forms a key part of a sandwich degree. All placements need to be assessed and approved prior to commencement in line with the LJMU Placement Learning Code of Practice. The Code of Practice requires students to conduct themselves in a professional and responsible manner during the placement - failure to do so may lead to the placement being terminated prematurely. Placements are normally for one calendar year on a full-time basis. Split placements of a shorter duration may be permissible. There is an expectation that a minimum of 1200 hours will be spent in the workplace.

Core modules

Environmental Analysis
20 credits

This module develops an understanding of the theory, principles and practices of building energy systems modelling and simulation techniques and helps students to use analytical approaches to the appraisal of environments and design proposals.

Commissioning and Facilities Management
20 credits

This module offers a comprehensive understanding of commissioning, maintenance, and facilities management for Architectural and Building Services Engineers, with a focus on key issues in these areas.

Low Carbon Systems and Sustainability
20 credits

This module investigates the environmental consequences of energy use in buildings with particular reference to building engineering systems and services. You will critically evaluate the environmental and economic benefits which are consequent on the specification of various building engineering systems, including low and zero carbon technologies. You will also examine the processes for the assessment of building energy loads at feasibility and post construction stages.

Design Project 3
20 credits

This module enables you to work both collaboratively and individually on realistic projects that facilitate the development and integration of a range technical and professional skills, within the context of building services.

Building Engineering Research Project
40 credits

This module enable students to complete a substantial piece of individual work and build on their expertise in a Building Engineering subject. Students will develop their research, time management, presentation and written communication skills.

Your Learning Experience

Excellent facilities and learning resources

We adopt an active blended learning approach, meaning you will experience a combination of face-to-face and online learning during your time at LJMU. This enables you to experience a rich and diverse learning experience and engage fully with your studies. Our approach ensures that you can easily access support from your personal tutor, either by meeting them on-campus or via a video call to suit your needs.

Teaching on the course accounts for approximately 2.5 days of the week in the form of lectures, tutorials, online activities, workshops and practical sessions, and you will be expected to supplement this with your own research using our library and the web. The rest of your time should be spent in private study, some of which will be encouraged as working in multi-disciplinary teams.

Dedicated personal tutor, plus study skills support

There is a high level of support for students on this course, particularly if you choose to undertake a work placement. The Built Environment Industry Unit will help you to identify potential employers, both in the UK and overseas (though overseas placements are less common), and will support you during your placement, with occasional visits from a tutor to check on your progress.

The Unit acts as a link between you and a large number of organisations that take part in our annual employers day and get involved in employer interest/support groups. Activities like these give you the best possible chance of securing a placement and making useful contacts for your future employment.

Assessment varies depending on the modules you choose, but will usually include a combination of exams and coursework.

All students perform differently depending on how they are assessed which is why we use a combination of assessment methods. These include exams (open and closed book), coursework (projects, laboratory and technical reports) and oral presentations.

Your tutors will give prompt and constructive feedback via Canvas (our virtual learning environment), face-to-face or in writing. This will help you to identify your strengths as well as the areas where you may need to put in more work.

Where you will study

What you can expect from your School

This programme is delivered in the Byrom Street complex of LJMUs City Campus. Here you'll find high quality lecture theatres, meeting and seminar rooms plus social spaces and a large cafe. The Avril Robarts Library is just minutes away on Tithebarn Street.

Gain the skills required to design and integrate complex building engineering systems within an aesthetically pleasing building envelope.

Course tutors

Our staff are committed to the highest standards of teaching and learning

Career paths

Architectural Engineering is closely allied to Building Services Engineering and is all about the design, installation and maintenance of sustainable systems that bring buildings to life.

Graduates work alongside other professionals such as architects, construction managers, quantity surveyors and building services engineers in the design of new buildings and the maintenance and refurbishment of existing buildings.

Architectural Engineering graduates are employed around the world with consulting engineers, architectural practices, contractors, public authorities and manufacturers.

Student Futures - Careers, Employability and Enterprise Service

A wide range of opportunities and support is available to you, within and beyond your course, to ensure our students experience a transformation in their career trajectory. Every undergraduate curriculum includes Future Focus during Level 4, an e-learning resource and workshop designed to help you to develop your talents, passion and purpose.

Every student has access to Careers Zone 24/7, LJMU's suite of online Apps, resources and jobs board via the LJMU Student Futures website.

Professional accreditation/links

In principle Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE)

This programme is designed to provide the academic requirement for ACIBSE and IEng.

Fees and funding

Tuition Fees:

Home fee:
£9,535
Placement year:
£1,905

There are many ways to fund study for home and international students

Fees

The fees quoted above cover registration, tuition, supervision, assessment and examinations as well as:

  • library membership with access to printed, multimedia and digital resources
  • access to programme-appropriate software
  • library and student IT support
  • free on-campus wifi via eduroam

Additional costs

Although not all of the following are compulsory/relevant, you should keep in mind the costs of:

  • accommodation and living expenditure
  • books (should you wish to have your own copies)
  • printing, photocopying and stationery
  • PC/laptop (should you prefer to purchase your own for independent study and online learning activities)
  • mobile phone/tablet (to access online services)
  • field trips (travel and activity costs)
  • placements (travel expenses and living costs)
  • student visas (international students only)
  • study abroad opportunities (travel costs, accommodation, visas and immunisations)
  • academic conferences (travel costs)
  • professional-body membership
  • graduation (gown hire etc)

Funding

There are many ways to fund study for home and international students. From loans to International Scholarships and subject-specific funding, you'll find all of the information you need on our specialist funding pages.

International fee:
£18,250
Placement year international:
£3,830

International Scholarships and payment plans

Liverpool John Moores University is committed to supporting international students by providing a range of scholarships and flexible payment plans to help students manage their tuition fees.

Scholarships

LJMU provides a variety of scholarships to support international students. Scholarships are available to self-funded students who have accepted their offer and met all the conditions outlined in their offer letter. Students must also demonstrate that they can cover living costs, travel, and other expenses associated to studying at the university. Postgraduate scholarships include tuition fee reductions and are often offered in partnership with external funding organisations.

All self-funded international students are eligible for an automatic scholarship worth up to £4,000. For more details and to view our full list of scholarships, visit the international scholarship webpages.

Deposit

All students must pay a £5,000 deposit before they can receive their CAS letter.

For more information view our deposit page.

Tuition Fee Payment Plan

After paying their £5,000 deposit, students have the option to pay their fees in full or in three equal instalments minus any internal scholarships and discounts. There are two payment options available for international students. You can either pay your tuition fees in full before enrolment or opt for a payment plan. With the payment plan, you can pay your fees in three instalments after making your £5,000 deposit. The first instalment is due before enrolment.

All payments should be made through Flywire. Full details can be found in the How to Pay Guide.

Early Bird Tuition Fee discount

We are excited to introduce a £500 Early Payment Discount to all self-funded international students. Eligible self-funded students who pay their fees by the required deadlines will get a discount which will be automatically deducted from the 1st year of tuition fees.

To see the required deadlines please visit the webpage

Entry requirements

Please choose your qualifications below to view requirements

Grades/points required from qualifications: CCD-CCC (88-96)

Work out how many UCAS points your qualifications are worth using the UCAS Tariff Calculator.

Qualification requirements

GCSEs and equivalents

Grade 4 or grade C or above in English Language and Mathematics/ Numeracy.

GCSE Equivalences accepted:
• Key Skills Level 2 in English/Maths
• NVQ Level 2 Functional skills in Maths and English Writing and or Reading
• Skills for Life Level 2 in Numeracy/English
• Higher Diploma in Maths/English
• Northern Ireland Essential Skills Level 2 in Communication or Application of Number
• Wales Essential Skills Level 2 in Communication or Application of Number

A levels

CCD-CCC

BTECs

Extended Diploma: MMM (96)

Access awards

Acceptable on its own and combined with other qualifications

Pass overall with a minimum of 88 points.

International Baccalaureate

Acceptable on its own and combined with other qualifications

OCR Cambridge Technical

Extended Diploma: MMM (96)

Irish awards

Acceptable on its own and combined with other qualifications

T levels

Acceptable on its own and combined with other qualifications.

You need to obtain the required UCAS points from a related subject area.

International requirements

IELTS

6.0 overall with no component below 5.5, taken within two years of the course start date.

https://www.ljmu.ac.uk/study/courses/international-entry-requirements

International entry requirements

Please Note: All international qualifications are subject to a qualification equivalency check.

How to apply

Securing your place at LJMU

UCAS is the official application route for our full-time undergraduate courses. Further information on the UCAS application process can be found here https://www.ljmu.ac.uk/study/undergraduate-students/how-to-apply.

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