Description
Course overview
This course has been designed to support architects, architectural designers and design-focused built-environment professionals in developing the skills needed to use AI tools effectively, appropriately and safely within architectural design.
You’ll gain practical experience using free-to-access generative AI tools across RIBA stages 0-7, applying AI in areas such as:
- Feasibility studies and early-stage briefing
- Concept and developed design
- Coordination and technical refinement
- Visualisation and communication
- Post-occupancy insight and evaluation
Learning focuses on using AI to enhance professional creativity, critical judgement and authorship, rather than replace them. Ethical, professional and data-safety considerations are integrated throughout.
Who should study this course?
This course is suitable for:
- Architectural Designers and Architects
- Part I, Part II and Part III professionals
- Senior designers and design leads
- Built environment professionals with design responsibilities
- Practices seeking AI upskilling for design teams
The course is relevant for both UK and international professionals, with content aligned to UK professional standards and the RIBA Plan of Work.
Aims
This course aims to provide architectural design professionals with:
- A clear understanding of what AI can and cannot be used for in architectural design
- Practical experience of applying AI across RIBA Stages 0–7
- Confidence to use AI tools without compromising professional standards, ethics or authorship
- A structured approach to verification, quality assurance and professional accountability
- A foundation for ongoing professional development in AI-enhanced design practice
Learning objectives
By the end of the course, you’ll be able to:
- Evaluate the capabilities and limitations of generative AI tools in architectural design
- Use AI tools appropriately and effectively during early-stage tasks (RIBA Stages 0-2), including feasibility and briefing
- Apply AI to support concept design development and refinement in RIBA Stages 2-4
- Critically analyse and verify AI-generated content using established quality-control techniques
- Integrate ethical, professional and data-security considerations into design workflows
- Develop a personal professional development plan for using AI safely and responsibly
Learning and assessment
Learning is delivered through:
- Five interactive two-hour Zoom workshops
- Practical exercises and scenario-based activities using free-to-use generative AI tools
- Guided discussion, peer learning and tutor support
There’s no formal exam for this course. You’re encouraged to retain outputs for CPD and professional portfolios.
Time commitment
Boarding week: 3 May 2026
Live workshops: 8 May – 19 June 2026 (five sessions)
This course offers 10 hours of live learning delivered flexibly to support full-time professional practice.
Key features
- Fully online, tutor-led delivery
- Designed specifically for architectural design practice
- Structured around the RIBA Plan of Work
- Strong focus on ethics, authorship and professional standards
- Practical, hands-on learning using real design tasks
- Delivered by an established built-environment education provider
- Suitable for individual professionals or whole practice teams
Participation requirements
Although there’s no formal application process, you’re expected to have:
- Experience in architectural design through study or practice
- A basic understanding of design principles
- Access to a computer with a reliable internet connection
- A willingness to create accounts on free AI platforms (with guidance on data privacy)
Technical requirements
To participate, you’ll need:
- A computer, laptop, tablet or mobile device with audio and video playback capability
- Internet access (broadband recommended)
- An up-to-date web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari or Edge)
- Software for opening PDF documents
- A smartphone with an authenticator app for secure sign in
Please note that systems with firewalls may require pop ups and YouTube access to be enabled.
Enrolment
To enrol in the next cohort, add the course to your basket or contact aademy@ube.ac.uk for group bookings.
For general enquiries:
UK (Free): 0800 019 9697 (Press 1)
International: +44 (0)118 921 4696 (Press 1)
Email: enquiries@ube.ac.uk
Cancellation policy
The University recognises that a change in circumstances can sometimes be unavoidable and that delegates who register for a scheduled event may need to withdraw or change their original registration. If you are unable to attend this scheduled CPD course you are booked on, you may request to substitute another person to attend in your place provided you notify us in writing at academy@ube.ac.uk at least five working days before the event.
Refunds are calculated as follows upon receipt of the written request to academy@ube.ac.uk
- More than 28 days before the course start date: Online Academy will retain 20% of the fees due
- 28-14 days before the course start date: Online Academy will retain 50% of the fees due
- Less than 14 days before the start date: Online Academy will retain 100% of the fees due
In the unlikely event of the University of the Built Environment withdrawing a course, all course fees paid will be refunded, however the Online Academy will not be liable for any other costs or losses incurred.
Data Protection
As stated in Clause 13 of the Online Academy Conditions of Sale; University of the Built Environment Online Academy warrants that in processing Personal Data relating to or provided by you (“the DELEGATE”)
- It will comply with the University of the Built Environment Privacy and Data Protection Policies
- It will comply with its obligations under the General Data Protection Regulation 2016 and the Data Protection Act 2018
- It has in place appropriate technical and organisational security measures against unauthorised or unlawful processing of Personal Data and against accidental loss or destruction of, or damage to, Personal Data
In this Clause 13, Personal Data has the meaning given in the General Data Protection Regulation 2016.
