ArchitectureCPD: Urban Design Representation

 What is Urban Design Representation?  

The CPD Course in Urban Design Representation is an intensive learning experience offered by the Department of Architecture at the University of Strathclyde. It is tailored for planning and design professionals with little or no experience in graphics and representation software. You will learn to visualise ideas and proposals, from editing the image to concept sketches and 3D modelling. 

The Urban Design Representation CPD is an exciting online learning experience comprising five modules aimed at teaching the basics of five different software packages: AutoCAD, Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign and SketchUp. 

The course is tailored to the needs of professionals who do not have a design background and/or graphic design skills in the relevant software used in an urban and architectural design environment. This course will help you to increase your skills and diversify your portfolio. 

The course is delivered remotely as a set of five modules covering: 

  • the role of computer design software in representing ideas 
  • fundamentals of graphic design 
  • basics of design representation and introductory exercises to relevant software 
  • insights on how to combine different software packages in the representation process. 

How you'll learn 

Each online module will focus on the application of one of the five software packages used in Urban Design and will feature hands-on activities and guidance on software interface and commands. Modules also include short exercises consolidating what is learned in class that can be carried out on your own, and then discussed online with tutors for informal feedback. Tutors will be available for further assistance via email or one-to-one online meetings for the full duration of the course. 

The course can be taken at any time: you make your own schedule! 

Once you subscribe, you will be provided with a unique Strathclyde account. This will give you access to the full course. Each week, a new online module will be released on the course’s MyPlace page. The schedule will follow the structure reported below: 

Module 0 

Introduction 

 Module 1 

Autocad 

 Module 2 

 Photoshop 

 Module 3 

 Illustrator 

 Module 4 

 InDesign 

 Module 5 

SketchUp 

What you'll learn 

Module 1: AutoCAD 

AutoCAD is possibly the most widely used 2D drafting and 3D modelling programme in architecture, planning and urban design. It is particularly appropriate for drawing plans due to its precision and accuracy. This module focuses on 2D drafting and the basics of a good file management practice. 

Module 2: Photoshop 

Adobe Photoshop is today widely recognized among design professionals as the leading image and photo editing software. This course will teach you the basic tools needed to masterfully edit, manage, transform and export your artwork. 

Module 3: Illustrator 

Adobe Illustrator is a vector-based programme extremely valuable for tasks in design, concept and mapping.  This session will teach you how to manage some of the useful tools of vector graphics for planning and concept visualisation. 

Module 4: Adobe InDesign 

Adobe InDesign is used to create, documents, reports and posters, and to export them into several formats, including PDFs. In this module you will create effective layouts for your publications, posters and reports and learn useful tips on how to prepare and manage your documents for sharing and printing. 

Module 5: SketchUp 

SketchUp is the most user-friendly 3D modelling software available. It is simple yet effective, and it will help you create sketchy or photorealistic representations of buildings, public spaces or urban areas. In this module you will see how simple 3D modelling operations can allow you to create sketchy drawings and photorealistic models. 

Pricing 

The full online module is available for a cost of £250*. It will include: 

  • Access to all course material including video tutorials and activities 
  • Access to a dedicated Strathclyde e-account 
  • An exclusive 2-month subscription to all Adobe CC products 
  • Bespoke support and feedback by tutors 
  • A certificate of completion by the University of Strathclyde 

*Prices include VAT. 

Booking 

Book a place on the course at our online shop 

For further information contact:  

Dr Alessandra Feliciotti 
a.feliciotti@strath.ac.uk