Estimated Annual Tuition Fees: A$21,120

The Master of Architecture offers advanced study in three majors: Architectural Design, History/Theory and Computing. The program is suitable for members of the design profession wishing to develop significant leadership potential in the profession. It also serves as a pathway leading towards academic and research careers. The program is cosmopolitan in its scope and Asian-Pacific in its emphasis. The program provides students with a provocative intellectual experience and world-class opportunities for real-life professional engagement in architecture. This is achieved through theoretical as well as practical urban projects in architectural design studios and in intensive history and theory, as well as technology seminars.

This program is suitable for recently graduated design-orientated architects as well as professionals who wish to enhance their conceptual abilities and refine their design skills. The first semester design studio offers studies of architectural precedents and theoretical projects, sometimes via a competition, and the second semester studio offers a current or topical project, usually a complex urban project based in Australia and the Asia-Pacific region. Taught by the Faculty’s internationally recognised academics and renowned adjunct and visiting architects and professors, the program is an effective way of elevating design excellence and disciplinary knowledge in architecture, as well as developing future leadership capacity in the profession, both locally and internationally.

Computing major

This major focuses on the development of knowledge, expertise and skills in the use of computing technology to support design practice. Some courses have more of a theory base, addressing basic principles in the areas of computer graphics programming, design computation and theory, CAD management and the wide range of technologies related to the management and dissemination of information. These are supplemented by a range of courses that have a more hands-on approach to developing advanced skills in the use of computer graphic tools such as multimedia, web design, visualisation, animation, modelling and simulation.

This major provides scope for students and professionals in various disciplines to develop skills in thinking and writing about architecture. Several themes are addressed including the history of architectural theory, the relationship of architecture to cities and current concepts of design. Although students need not be trained in design, they will have the opportunity to consider and comment on the progress of the studios, which run parallel with courses dedicated to Architectural History and Theory.

Key teaching methods include in-class lectures and seminars with strong emphasis on class participation in topical discussion. In some cases student-led seminars are presented where students report and discuss their research in class. In courses where computers or other tools are used, relevant laboratory-based sessions are held to provide hands-on skills in those areas. Design studios are comprised of occasional lectures, student discussions and project critiques. Where appropriate, assessment includes peer review, exams and quizzes, design studio critiques, assignment papers and project assessment by the instructor.

A recognised four-year Bachelor degree or equivalent and additional requirements apply to different majors.

Design applicants must have a recognised degree in Architecture, and submit a design portfolio and personal and employer declarations. One year of post graduation professional experience in architectural practice is desirable.