Architectural visualisation course to launch at RGU
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A new course which focuses on architectural visualisation techniques is being launched at Robert Gordon University’s (RGU) Scott Sutherland School of Architecture and Built Environment this year.
RGU will add an MSc in Visualisation in Architecture and Built Environment to its portfolio, covering the rapid development of digital visualisation techniques in the industry, their implications for design, construction and collaboration and the ways in which they will impact on working practices.
The new course, which will start in September 2014, reflects the increasing use of building information modelling (BIM) and visualisation techniques within a rapidly changing industry, from 3D laser scanning and photogrammetry to planning visualisation and energy modelling.
Course leader, Professor Richard Laing, said: “The manner in which computers, digital models and virtual collaboration have been used in the construction industry has evolved rapidly in recent years.
“This has been partly at the behest of government policy, but has also been driven by contractors recognising the apparent benefits in terms of the construction process, supply chains and organisation.
“There are techniques emerging which will allow those involved in developing a site, whether they are an architect, urban planner or in construction, to develop full 3D models of the existing site using photographs and 3D scanning, in addition to traditional sketching and drawing.
“These techniques can be used together to produce material which is visually accessible, informative, and which can be produced in a cost effective manner.”
He added: “What sets this course apart from others of a similar nature is the mix of research expertise that we have at the Scott Sutherland School, central to which has been the rapid development of IT applications within the evaluation of environments.
“As a result, we are in a position to draw on cutting edge research examples as part of the course, rather than second hand knowledge, which will give students a deep understanding of the development of visualisation techniques within the sector.”
The course, which will be delivered online over three years, will give students hands-on experience of a range of software packages, providing a foundation upon which they can develop their ideas and project work. It also recognises the importance of collaboration within the design team, and applicants from across the architecture and built environment team are welcome to apply.
Prof. Laing said: “The course will take students through the different techniques that can be employed throughout the design and building process and explain which are appropriate for a range of scenarios – some will be useful for a public display, others are more accurate so will be useful to the design team and others will be of value when it comes to the building process.”
The course is aimed at applicants holding an Honours degree in Architecture, Architectural Technology, Surveying, Engineering, Planning or any associated discipline. It will also be of interest to graduates from a design background, including interior design and product design.
Prof. Laing added: “Those graduating with this degree will be coming into the industry at a time when a lot of these techniques will be in demand in the mainstream. My hope is that because it is a part-time, distance learning course, students will continue to work in the industry and apply these techniques to live projects which will be extremely interesting.”
For more information and details on how to apply for the MSc in Visualisation Architecture and Built Environment, visit www.rgu.ac.uk/visualisation