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The cities we live in shape our well-being more than we might realise. Thoughtfully designed urban spaces, with access to nature, encourage movement, reduce stress, and boost mental health. In fact, research in Wales found that people living within 200 to 300 metres of green and blue spaces had a lower risk of anxiety and depression.
But what happens when we neglect these factors? Traffic congestion, pollution, and poor access to essential services – all of which contribute to increased health risks.
At Ulster University’s Belfast School of Architecture and the Built Environment, you gain the tools to create a brighter future. Its undergraduate programmes, with a focus on UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), equip architects and planners with the knowledge and skills to design more sustainable communities.
Energy – BSc (Hons)
If you’re passionate about shaping a greener future, the Energy – BSc (Hons), accredited by the Energy Institute, is the ideal platform to turn that ambition into expertise. Covering conventional and renewable energy technologies, such as wind, bio-energy, solar, tidal and wave power, heat pumps, smart grids, fuel cells, and energy storage systems, the programme gets you to design, monitor, and optimise energy systems to ensure they are cost-effective and environmentally friendly.
Employers value these skills — 70% of graduates apply their knowledge directly in their current roles, while 85% secure jobs or further study within 15 months of graduation. Career pathways include roles as energy analysts, technology designers, and business consultants, with alumni working at organisations such as AECOM, Belfast City Council, and Harvey Group.
Architectural engineering students focus on energy-efficient design, thermal modelling, and zero-carbon buildings. Source: Ulster University
Architectural Engineering – BEng (Hons)
The award-winning Architectural Engineering – BEng (Hons), accredited by the Chartered Institute of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) and the EI, provides the technical and creative skills to design spaces that enhance comfort while reducing environmental impact. You’ll gain knowledge in energy systems, building services, engineering, sustainability, and project management, developing the skills to create safe, efficient, and low-carbon buildings.
This degree is built with your career in mind, ensuring you are ready for professional accreditation and real-world challenges. Graduates have been successful in a number of roles, from design consultant to project engineer and facility manager at companies like ARUP, Semple McKillop, and Mott MacDonald.
Architectural Technology and Management – BSc (Hons)
Interested in a career where creativity meets cutting-edge technology? The Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT)-accredited Architectural Technology and Management – BSc (Hons) teaches you everything from Building Information Modelling (BIM) software to building materials and statutory requirements, helping you bring buildings to life.
Current modules include Introduction to the Built Environment, Digital Construction and Communication, Technical Development, Professional Practice and Management, Green Building Design, and many more. These courses, delivered by industry-experienced faculty, ensure you stay ahead in a competitive landscape.
As a result, Architectural Technology and Management graduates are highly employable, with 70% securing work or further study within 15 months after graduation. Many have found success at firms such as WDR & RT Taggart, Hall McKnight Architects, and Keystone Group, while others have started their own businesses.
Planning, Regeneration and Development – BSc (Hons)
The Planning, Regeneration and Development – BSc (Hons) gives you the skills to shape the cities and communities of tomorrow. With Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) and Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) accreditation, the programme prepares students to become chartered town planners or surveyors, leading projects that drive sustainability, economic growth, and urban renewal.
What sets this programme apart is how hands-on it is. You will learn about urban design, sustainability, and placemaking firsthand through live projects across Northern Ireland and field trips abroad.
At the same time, expert faculty help you build confidence in land and property development, financial valuation, and community-driven planning, ensuring you’re industry-ready. With these skills, graduates unlock diverse career opportunities in the UK and internationally across the public, private, and community sectors.
By the time you graduate, you’ll be ready for the Assessment of Professional Competence (APC) and professional membership with the RICS. Source: Ulster University
Building Surveying – BSc (Hons)
Turn your passion for building and construction into a rewarding career with the Building Surveying – BSc (Hons). Bridging theory and practice, you’ll explore core topics including technology, maintenance management, and building conservation, while gaining expertise through hands-on projects.
Learning from industry experts is a key part of the experience. For example, Mr. Ken Boston, a Fellow of RICS and a Building Surveying Professional Practice Group member, shares expertise from his work with the Historic Buildings Council of Northern Ireland.
With a strong foundation in technical knowledge and professional development, graduates leave with the skills to succeed in various roles. They find careers as building control surveyors, development officers, or estate surveyors in government agencies and commercial organisations, including Malcolm Hollis and VB Evans.
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