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MODULE DESCRIPTOR
Module Title
Architectural Thesis Project
Reference ACM101 Version 3
Created October 2023 SCQF Level SCQF 11
Approved November 2017 SCQF Points 60
Amended January 2024 ECTS Points 30

Aims of Module
To enable students to develop design skills in relation to a themed area, and to demonstrate the ability to interpret and apply relevant theoretical concepts to a defined physical, cultural, social, and economic project context through architectural design.

Learning Outcomes for Module
On completion of this module, students are expected to be able to:
1 Apply appropriate research methods to develop a proposal.
2 Critically appraise a design brief and generate design or process-led solutions that demonstrate clear and consistent architectural design or a key enabling process.
3 Demonstrate a high degree of resolution within creative solutions in a manner that maintains integrity of design intention, and a clear evolution of architectural or management thinking.
4 Critically and objectively appraise the final outcome in relation to theoretical concepts, and the selected context and setting for the project.
5 Communicate design intentions effectively by verbal presentation and multi-media techniques, to a professional level.

Indicative Module Content
The module is student-led, encompassing the definition of a brief situated in a specific context of the student's choosing. It is a studio-based module with introductory lectures, individual and group tutorials, private study and design work. Students develop work through self-directed research and design development, and through tutor consultation. Students are expected to consult regularly with tutors and present their work to staff, other students, and invited critics at periodic reviews. Final design work will be presented verbally and by using multi-media techniques in open forum. Tutors provide feedback at tutorials and reviews. Designs must be rigorously underpinned by research, and must demonstrate a high degree of resolution within the context of contemporary architectural and professional practice, all situated within the chosen setting. Students should clearly demonstrate a depth of independent thinking in relation to their individual project.

Module Delivery
This module is delivered full time on campus.

Indicative Student Workload Full Time Part Time
Contact Hours 150 N/A
Non-Contact Hours 450 N/A
Placement/Work-Based Learning Experience [Notional] Hours N/A N/A
TOTAL 600 N/A
Actual Placement hours for professional, statutory or regulatory body    

ASSESSMENT PLAN
If a major/minor model is used and box is ticked, % weightings below are indicative only.
Component 1
Type: Coursework Weighting: 100% Outcomes Assessed: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
Description: Working individually, students will develop appropriate projects and produce thorough design solutions, which will be presented in appropriate media. Work is assessed formatively at interim reviews and summatively at a portfolio review at the end of the semester.

MODULE PERFORMANCE DESCRIPTOR
Explanatory Text
The overall module grade is based on 100% weighting of Component 1 (Coursework). An overall minimum grade D is required to pass the module. Non-submission will result in an NS grade.
Module Grade Minimum Requirements to achieve Module Grade:
A A
B B
C C
D D
E E
F F
NS Non-submission of work by published deadline or non-attendance for examination

Module Requirements
Prerequisites for Module SUM550 Innovative Strategies: Sustainable Design and Process and SUM551 Innovative Strategies: Project Management and Process
Corequisites for module None.
Precluded Modules None.

INDICATIVE BIBLIOGRAPHY
1 Reading lists are issued with the project brief and vary depending on the type of project selected.
2 Detail Practice construction series, Birkhauser
3 Constructing Architecture: Materials, Processes, Structures (Paperback) by Andrea Deplazes (Editor), G. H. Soffker (Translator)

Robert Gordon University, Garthdee House, Aberdeen, AB10 7QB, Scotland, UK: a Scottish charity, registration No. SC013781