Architecture, interiors and construction

Many of our courses are accredited by leading professional bodies such as the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), the Chartered Association of Building Engineers (CABE), the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT), and Society of British and International Interior Design (SBID). This ensures that the curriculum meets industry standards and that graduates are highly employable. 

'Accredited', 'endorsed' or 'recognised' all mean a professional body has reviewed your course and confirmed it meets their standards. Each comes with slightly different perks.

• Endorsed means the course content has been checked to ensure it gives you the skills and knowledge employers in that field are looking for.
• Accredited often comes with extra benefits while you study, like professional membership, insurance or exam exemptions.
• Recognised means your degree meets national standards for that profession, showing you're prepared to work safely and effectively once qualified.

Whichever term is used, it's a sign your course has been shaped by the people who hire in that industry, so what you learn lines up with what employers need.

Yes, Solent University has strong industry connections with companies like Ikea and Barrett Homes. You'll have opportunities for work placements, internships, and live project briefs, which can help you build your professional network and gain valuable experience.

Interior designers generally have a background in art, design, graphical communication, product, or interior design. A degree in interior design or a related field is typically required, as it provides the necessary knowledge and skills that employers seek. Interior designers must understand how to make indoor spaces functional while meeting clients' needs in terms of design and layout. They often use computer-aided design (CAD) software and need strong project management skills. Interior decorators, on the other hand, focus more on soft furnishings, surface design, textiles, or interior styling.

Construction management is a broad field. Construction managers are involved from the initial project conception, advising clients on the feasibility and safety of proposals, to the delivery on-site, managing the workforce, and ensuring the safe completion of the build in line with time, cost, and quality requirements. They handle project planning, resource management, budgeting, and risk management, ensuring that construction projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards.

We utilise a range of assessment methods on the courses, including presentations, reports, and exams. The reports and presentations are typically based on live briefs or case studies, allowing students to apply their knowledge to real-world problems.