From A levels to Architecture:
How DEC gave me a head start

Studying DEC alongside her A Levels gave Annabelle early insight into the built environment, helping her develop technical confidence before starting university in architecture and construction.

Xin Yan (Annabelle) Ang
Prince of Wales Island International School (Malaysia)

TQUK Level 3 International Diploma in Design, Engineering, and Construction in the Digital Built Environment (RQF)

CAREER PATHWAY:
Architect

“Now in university, I find that this early exposure has given me a strong foundation, as I am more confident with technical skills and familiar with industry terminology compared to many of my peers.”

CURRENT UNIVERSITY AND COURSE
University of Melbourne
Double major in Architecture and Construction

A LEVEL RESULTS
A Level in Design and Technology- A
A Level in Geography- A
A Level in Maths- B
Level 3 International Diploma in DEC -A*

Why I studied DEC

I chose to pursue A Levels to keep my university options open, while knowing that my long-term interest has always been rooted in the built environment, whether in building design or project management.

To deepen this interest, I decided to pursue the DEC qualification alongside my A Levels, allowing me to gain a more practical and comprehensive understanding of building processes and project lifecycles. Through this, I was able to explore the responsibilities of different roles at each stage of development.

Now in university, I find that this early exposure has given me a strong foundation, as I am more confident with technical skills and familiar with industry terminology compared to many of my peers.”

My aims for the future

I want to be a licensed architect in Victoria, Australia and be involved in social architecture organisations, such as ‘Australian Architects Declare’ and  ‘Architecture without Frontiers’.

I’d like to continue to shape positive change for our community through more sustainable and equitable living spaces.