National Technician Diploma in Architecture
HoD
Mr. Turyakira Moses
Course Description
The National Technician Diploma in Architecture (Competence Level 4) is designed to prepare competent architectural technicians to support the design, documentation, and coordination of building projects in the built environment sector.
The architecture and construction industries require skilled personnel who can translate architectural concepts and engineering requirements into accurate technical drawings, digital models, and construction documentation. Architectural technicians play a critical role in assisting architects, engineers, and construction teams by preparing architectural drawings, interpreting design information, coordinating technical documentation, and supporting the implementation of building projects.
This programme equips trainees with competencies in architectural drafting, building construction documentation, structural and building services coordination, digital modelling using Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Building Information Modelling (BIM), and technical documentation management. Graduates will be able to support multidisciplinary design teams, prepare architectural drawings and construction documentation, and contribute effectively to the delivery of building projects in the construction sector.
The construction sector continues to experience strong demand for competent craft-level workers who can accurately execute on-site construction tasks. Many construction challenges, such as poor workmanship, structural defects, material wastage, and unsafe working conditions, arise from inadequate practical training at the technician level. This programme directly addresses these skills gaps by equipping trainees with the core competencies needed to carry out building works accurately and safely.
At this level, a technician in Architecture is expected to work with minimal supervision, performing tasks related to Design, basic interpretation of building drawings, site inspection, and supervision, and adhering to building control laws and contract law. The programme prepares trainees to contribute effectively to large-scale building projects and to support skilled artisans, craftspeople, and supervisors in more complex construction activities.
The programme also recognises the importance of basic drawing interpretation and communication in modern construction practice. As such, trainees are introduced to fundamental building drawings and site documentation to enhance coordination, reduce execution errors, and support quality control. The National Technician Diploma in Architecture, therefore, provides a solid foundation for employment, self-reliance, and progression into higher-level construction trades and advanced TVET qualifications.
Course Curriculumn
The National Technician Diploma in Architecture is developed in response to the growing demand for competent architectural professionals to support Uganda's expanding construction industry, urbanisation, housing development, and national infrastructure programmes. As public and private investments in the built environment continue to grow, there is a corresponding need for skilled personnel to prepare architectural drawings, develop building designs, coordinate construction documentation, apply digital design technologies, ensure compliance with building regulations, and support sustainable, environmentally responsible construction practices.
This programme uses the Competence-Based Education and Training (CBET) approach to address these gaps by integrating practical learning with industry-relevant knowledge, technical skills, and professional attitudes. Through competency-based training, workplace learning, and authentic assessment, the programme prepares graduates who are employable, innovative, and able to support quality architectural practice and sustainable infrastructure development. In doing so, it contributes to Uganda's socio-economic transformation by strengthening the country's human resource capacity in architecture.
This programme is at UTQF Level 4. On completion of this level, a technician is expected to demonstrate a high degree of autonomy in performing complex tasks and making decisions in dynamic environments, while coordinating their own work and that of others. The graduate shall be responsible for managing craftsperson teams and resources to achieve organisational objectives and continuous improvement.
Course Programme Structure
The National Technician Diploma in Architecture (Level 4) lasts two academic years, delivered over four semesters. Each semester comprises 17 academic weeks of training and assessment. Actual training and learning will cover no more than 15 weeks per semester; this duration provides adequate time for trainees to acquire the required knowledge, skills, and attitudes.
Year I, Semester I |
||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Module Code | Module Title | FWH | TH | PH | NH | CU |
| TBCM111 | Communication Skills | 30 | 60 | 30 | 3 | |
| TTAR111 | Architectural Design Fundamentals 1: Hand Drawing | 50 | 100 | 50 | 5 | |
| TTAR112 | Building Materials I | 40 | 80 | 40 | 4 | |
| TTAR113 | Construction Technology | 40 | 80 | 40 | 4 | |
| TTAR114 | Mathematics for Architects | 40 | 80 | 40 | 4 | |
| TTAR115 | Land Surveying I | 30 | 60 | 30 | 3 | |
| TTAR116 | History of Architecture: World Architecture | 30 | 60 | 30 | 3 | |
| TTAR117 | Environmental Design | 30 | 60 | 30 | 3 | |
| TTCM111 | Digital Literacy | 40 | 80 | 40 | 4 | |
Course Entry Requirements
Admission into the National Technician Diploma in Architecture programme shall be open to applicants who meet any of the following requirements:
a) TVET Qualification (Direct Entry Route)
An applicant who holds a National Craftsman Certificate in Architecture or any other related field or its East African and international equivalent.
b) Secondary School Qualification Route
An applicant shall be eligible for admission if he or she possesses the Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) with at least one (01) Principal Pass in any essential subject and two Subsidiary Passes, or East African and international equivalents.
c) Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
All persons assessed through the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) system and certified competent to UTQF Competency Level 3.
Course Lecturers
Fees Structure not available at the moment
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