ICTQual AB Level 2 International Diploma in Architecture and Design
The ICTQual AB Level 2 International Diploma in Architecture and Design is a globally recognised qualification designed to introduce learners to the creative and technical world of modern architecture. It provides a solid foundation in design principles, architectural drawing, and digital visualisation—ideal for those beginning their journey in the built environment or professionals seeking to enhance their creative and technical skills.
This diploma focuses on developing a strong understanding of spatial awareness, structure, form, and design communication. Learners explore architectural concepts, design methods, and sustainable practices that align with current industry trends. The curriculum integrates both theoretical knowledge and hands-on projects to help learners apply their learning to real-world design challenges.
Over the three-month, 30-credit programme, learners gain exposure to the key tools and techniques used by architectural and design professionals. Topics include architectural drafting, 3D modelling, design documentation, and the use of modern design software. The course also encourages innovative and sustainable design thinking—an essential approach in today’s global construction and design sectors.
The programme is suitable for both freshers with a creative interest and working professionals aiming to strengthen their understanding of architecture and design. By the end of the diploma, learners will have built a professional portfolio showcasing their design skills, creativity, and understanding of industry standards.
Successful learners can pursue roles such as junior architectural assistant, design technician, or visual design support specialist. The qualification also offers a progression route to advanced diplomas within the ICTQual AB framework, supporting long-term career development in architecture, interior design, and related fields.
This internationally aligned diploma empowers learners to transform their creative vision into practical design solutions, preparing them to contribute confidently to architectural projects worldwide.
Level 2 International Diploma in Architecture and Design
To enrol in ICTQual AB Level 2 International Diploma in Architecture and Design learner must meet the following entry requirements:
This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 2 International Diploma in Architecture and Design, consists of 3 mandatory units.
Foundation and Core Knowledge
- Fundamentals of Architectural Design
- Technical Drawing and Design Applications
- Sustainable and Structural Design Practices
Learning Outcomes for the ICTQual AB Level 2 International Diploma in Architecture and Design:
Foundation and Core Knowledge
Fundamentals of Architectural Design
- Understand the core principles and elements of architectural and spatial design.
- Develop creative and conceptual thinking skills for architectural projects.
- Demonstrate the ability to create basic architectural sketches and design layouts.
- Identify the relationship between form, function, and aesthetics in design.
- Apply foundational design theories to small-scale architectural tasks.
Technical Drawing and Design Applications
- Produce accurate architectural drawings using traditional and digital techniques.
- Interpret and prepare basic technical drawings, plans, and elevations.
- Use industry-relevant software tools to support architectural drafting.
- Demonstrate precision, scale, and proportion in technical documentation.
- Understand the importance of accuracy and detail in professional design work.
Sustainable and Structural Design Practices
- Recognise the importance of sustainability and eco-friendly design approaches.
- Identify key materials and construction methods used in modern architecture.
- Apply basic structural concepts to support design functionality and safety.
- Evaluate the environmental and social impact of design decisions.
- Integrate sustainable thinking into architectural and design projects.
The ICTQual AB Level 2 International Diploma in Architecture and Design serves as a strong foundation for learners seeking to advance their skills and knowledge within the architectural, design, and construction sectors. Upon successful completion, learners can progress to higher-level qualifications, specialised diplomas, or industry-specific certifications. This progression supports continuous professional growth and prepares learners for diverse roles within global architectural and design environments.
Progression to Higher-Level Diplomas
- Learners can advance to Level 3 and Level 4 Diplomas in Architecture, Interior Design, or Construction Technology.
- Each higher level builds on design theory, technical drawing, and project management.
- Provides exposure to advanced design software and modelling tools.
- Encourages analytical, technical, and creative problem-solving skills.
- Equips learners to handle more complex architectural design tasks.
- Offers structured academic progression aligned with international qualification frameworks.
- Enhances professional credibility for career advancement.
Progression into Interior and Spatial Design
- Learners can specialise in interior design or spatial planning disciplines.
- Develops expertise in space utilisation, aesthetics, and interior detailing.
- Encourages innovative and functional design thinking.
- Opens pathways to careers such as interior designer or 3D visualiser.
- Promotes creativity in designing sustainable and ergonomic spaces.
- Strengthens understanding of material selection and lighting design.
- Builds a professional portfolio suited for global design firms.
Progression into Construction and Building Technology
- Enables learners to explore the technical side of architectural development.
- Focuses on construction systems, materials, and site management.
- Prepares learners for roles such as architectural technician or site coordinator.
- Strengthens coordination between design and practical construction processes.
- Enhances understanding of safety, structure, and regulatory standards.
- Encourages collaboration with engineers, planners, and contractors.
- Builds confidence in implementing design plans into real projects.
Progression into Digital Design and CAD Technologies
- Introduces learners to advanced computer-aided design (CAD) and 3D modelling.
- Builds technical competence with design software and visual presentation tools.
- Encourages precision and innovation through digital drafting techniques.
- Supports roles in design visualisation and architectural rendering.
- Enhances understanding of building information modelling (BIM) systems.
- Promotes digital literacy essential for modern design industries.
- Enables participation in digital transformation within architecture.
Progression into Sustainable Design and Green Architecture
- Focuses on eco-friendly and energy-efficient design practices.
- Encourages sustainable material use and renewable technologies.
- Strengthens awareness of environmental impact in architecture.
- Prepares learners for roles in green building consultancy or design.
- Promotes understanding of global sustainability standards.
- Develops critical thinking for future-ready and responsible design.
- Contributes to the global movement towards sustainable construction.
Progression into Design Project Management
- Develops leadership and coordination skills in design execution.
- Provides insight into budgeting, scheduling, and project supervision.
- Enhances communication and teamwork in design and construction environments.
- Prepares learners to manage small-scale architectural or interior projects.
- Strengthens organisational and client-handling skills.
- Builds understanding of procurement and quality control processes.
- Lays the foundation for future roles in design management and consultancy.
Progression into Professional Practice and Employment
- Opens entry-level opportunities in architectural firms and design consultancies.
- Supports employment as architectural assistant, junior draughtsman, or design technician.
- Builds confidence for client engagement and presentation of design ideas.
- Encourages ongoing professional development and certification.
- Strengthens learners’ readiness for competitive job markets.
- Promotes adaptability to international industry standards.
- Establishes a lifelong learning mindset for sustainable career growth.
To deliver the ICTQual AB Level 2 International Diploma in Architecture and Design effectively, approved centres must maintain the highest standards of academic quality, learner support, and resource availability. Centres are responsible for ensuring that both teaching and assessment meet international benchmarks and reflect the professional standards of the architecture and design industry.
Centre Approval and Accreditation
- Centres must hold official approval from ICTQual AB before delivering this qualification.
- Accreditation ensures that the institution meets ICTQual AB’s quality assurance and compliance standards.
- Centres must maintain valid approval status through regular reviews and audits.
- Documentation of facilities, staff qualifications, and learning resources must be submitted during the approval process.
- Centres should demonstrate commitment to continuous improvement and learner satisfaction.
- Any changes in centre management, location, or resources must be reported to ICTQual AB for validation.
Qualified Teaching and Assessment Staff
- Tutors and assessors must possess relevant academic qualifications in architecture, design, or construction.
- Staff should have proven teaching experience and current knowledge of industry trends and software tools.
- Continuous professional development (CPD) must be encouraged to maintain teaching excellence.
- Assessors must be trained to evaluate both theoretical understanding and practical design skills.
- Internal quality assurers (IQAs) must oversee the assessment process to ensure consistency.
- Centres should keep records of staff qualifications and professional experience.
Learning Resources and Infrastructure
- Centres must provide well-equipped classrooms, studios, and design labs to support practical learning.
- Access to computers with up-to-date design and drafting software (such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, or Revit) is mandatory.
- Learning environments should support both creative and technical skill development.
- Centres must ensure internet connectivity for online learning, research, and digital submission of projects.
- Libraries and digital repositories must include architecture and design references, journals, and e-resources.
- Facilities must comply with safety and accessibility standards for all learners.
Learner Support and Guidance
- Centres must offer academic counselling, mentoring, and study support to all learners.
- Clear guidance should be provided on course structure, assessments, and progression opportunities.
- Learners must receive feedback on their work to support skill enhancement and confidence building.
- Centres should maintain open communication channels between staff and learners for academic queries.
- Equal opportunity policies must be implemented to promote diversity and inclusion.
- Support must be available for learners with additional educational needs.
Assessment and Quality Assurance
- Centres must follow ICTQual AB’s prescribed assessment and verification procedures.
- Assessments should be fair, transparent, and aligned with learning outcomes.
- Internal moderation must be carried out regularly to maintain consistency in grading.
- Centres must maintain secure records of learner assessments and portfolios.
- External verification visits by ICTQual AB will ensure compliance with qualification standards.
- Continuous improvement processes must be in place based on feedback and verification outcomes.
Health, Safety, and Ethical Standards
- Centres must ensure a safe and supportive learning environment for all participants.
- Proper safety measures must be implemented in workshops and design labs.
- Ethical standards in design work, originality, and academic integrity must be maintained.
- Centres should foster a culture of creativity, respect, and professionalism.
- Environmental responsibility and sustainable practices should be encouraged in all activities.
Technology Integration and Digital Learning Support
- Centres must facilitate access to online learning platforms and digital collaboration tools.
- Virtual learning environments (VLEs) should be used for sharing course materials and assignments.
- Learners should have opportunities to develop digital literacy and design presentation skills.
- Centres must support hybrid or remote learning if required by local or international learners.
- Technical assistance should be available to ensure smooth digital operations.
- Continuous updates of software and digital tools should align with industry requirements.
Approved centres play a vital role in delivering high-quality education under the ICTQual AB framework. By maintaining strong infrastructure, qualified staff, learner-centred support, and rigorous assessment processes, centres uphold the credibility and international value of the ICTQual AB Level 2 International Diploma in Architecture and Design. These standards ensure that every learner receives a professional, practical, and globally relevant learning experience.
Route for Candidates with No Experience
This pathway is designed for learners who are new to the field of architecture, interior design, or construction and wish to develop the fundamental skills and knowledge needed to begin a professional career in architectural drafting, design support, or spatial planning.
- Admission: Learners enrol at an ICTQual AB approved centre to begin the 3-month, 30-credit programme.
- Training:The course is delivered through three key study units — Fundamentals of Architectural Design, Technical Drawing and Design Applications, and Sustainable and Structural Design Practices. Training includes classroom instruction, design studio practice, project-based learning, and digital drafting exercises. This blend of theory and hands-on experience ensures learners gain both creative and technical skills applicable to real-world design environments.
- Assessment:Learners are evaluated through design projects, drawing portfolios, practical assignments, and coursework submissions. Assessments measure creativity, technical accuracy, problem-solving, and design communication skills aligned with industry standards.
- Certification:Upon successful completion, learners are awarded the ICTQual AB Level 2 International Diploma in Architecture and Design. Graduates are prepared for entry-level roles such as Architectural Assistant, Junior Draughtsman, Design Support Technician, or Interior Design Assistant, and may progress to higher-level diplomas within the ICTQual AB qualification framework.
Route for Experienced and Competent Candidates
This pathway is designed for professionals with prior experience in architecture, drafting, construction design, or related roles who wish to formalise and validate their existing expertise through an internationally recognised qualification.
- Eligibility:Learners must provide verified evidence of at least two years of professional experience in architectural drafting, technical design, or construction planning. Acceptable documentation includes employer references, project samples, design portfolios, or verified workplace achievements that align with the diploma’s learning outcomes.
- Assessment of Competence:Experienced learners are assessed through professional discussions, portfolio evaluations, and practical demonstrations that reflect their design proficiency and technical understanding. This approach recognises existing knowledge while identifying any skill gaps requiring short bridging modules or targeted assessments.
- Evidence Submission:Learners must submit a professional portfolio demonstrating previous design work, technical drawings, project documentation, and digital drafting examples. All evidence is verified by the approved centre to ensure authenticity and alignment with ICTQual AB standards.
- Knowledge and Understanding:Where knowledge gaps are identified, learners may complete bridging workshops, refresher classes, or supplementary assessments to achieve full competency and meet qualification standards.
- Certification:Upon successful validation of competence, learners are awarded the ICTQual AB Level 2 International Diploma in Architecture and Design, recognising their professional capability and readiness for advanced roles in architectural drafting, project support, or design coordination.
This dual-route structure ensures flexibility and accessibility for all learners—whether they are entering the field for the first time or looking to certify their professional experience. It offers a clear, internationally aligned pathway that promotes both career development and practical expertise in the global architecture and design industry.