Department of Architecture & Civil Engineering, Unit Catalogue 2009/10 |
AR40340: Professional studies: management, practice and law |
 Credits:
| 6 |
| Level:
| Masters |
| Period: | Semester 1 |
| Assessment:
| CW 100% |
| Supplementary Assessment: | Like-for-like reassessment (where allowed by programme regulations) |
| Requisites:
| |
| Description: | Aims: To further the students' understanding of the strategies, processes and mechanisms that inform the practice of architecture and the procurement and delivery of architectural projects. To confirm the students' awareness and knowledge of the standards and principles required for the practice of architecture and to demonstrate an ability to manage individual learning needs to prepare for and maintain professional standards commensurate with qualification. Learning Outcomes: On completion of this unit students will have demonstrated knowledge of: * How cost control mechanisms operate within the development of an architectural project Understanding of: * The basic principles of business management and factors related to running a design practice and how architects organise, administer and manage an architectural project, recognising current and emerging trends in the construction industry such as partnering, integrated project process, value engineering and risk management * The inter-relationships of individuals and organisations involved in the procurement and delivery of architectural projects, and how these are defined and effected through a variety of contractual and organisational structures * The fundamental legal, professional and statutory requirements as they are relevant to building design and practice, with particular reference to matters relating to health and safety and universal design for access * The professional duties and responsibilities of architects, as defined and described in the Codes and Standards relating to their professional practice * The contribution of other professionals in the design process showing an appropriate use of team working skills, recognising the importance of current methods in the construction industry And ability to: * Identify and manage individual learning needs so as to prepare for and maintain professional standards commensurate with qualification. Skills: Candidates are required to demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of the basic principles of professional practice and project administration in accordance with the RIBA criteria for Part II, to convey an ability to apply this knowledge in a relevant manner, and to demonstrate an understanding of the duties and responsibilities of the architect in practice. Content: The unit will develop the candidates' knowledge and understanding of the overall structure and management of professional practice and the legal and legislative matters that impact upon the practice of architecture through the appreciation of the ethical, legal, legislative and practical attributes required for practice and the administration of construction projects. The programme will deliver the following subjects on which the candidates will be examined through the process of an office-based examination paper and written assignments: * Professional Standards and Ethics: Professional duties and responsibilities; Professional Practice and the Codes of Conduct; the architect and the Employer; design team structure and organisation. * Project procurement and administration: Types of contract, Procurement, Project Management, Project team structure and organisation, quality management and cost control. Information flow, programme monitoring and management. * Constraints and Law: Legislation, Regulations, Risk management, control and the Duty of Care; Health and Safety and the principles of Construction Design and Management and their impact upon universal design for access as applied to the processes of design and construction. * Professional Practice: Forms of Practice, administration, staffing and organisation; Project organisation and team structures; integrated project process and Risk management; Appointments and fees; Insurances, payment and financial control. Recognition of current and emerging trends in the construction industry. |