Study Master of Design (Interior Architecture) at the University of South Australia (UniSA). Information for Australian students.

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Entry requirements Degree overview Career outcomes How to apply Study experience

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Australian students

Start Date
February
July

Campus
City West

Duration
2 year(s) full-time

Program Code
DMSP

SATAC Code
4CM131 (Internal)
4CM208 (Internal)
4CM220 (Internal)

Study as
Full-time or part-time

Mode
On-campus

Fees
Commonwealth Supported

Entry requirements

Successful completion of a Bachelor degree or Graduate Diploma from a recognised higher education institution, or equivalent, in a related discipline. Applicants must also submit a portfolio of work, curriculum vitae and a written statement of intent.

Applicants who have completed the Graduate Diploma in Design from the University of South Australia are eligible to enter the program with 1.0 EFTSL Advanced Standing and complete the program in 1 year of full time study or equivalent part time study, and are not required to submit a portfolio of work and statement of intent.

Applicants who have completed a Master of Architecture are eligible to enter the program with 1.0 EFTSL Advanced Standing and complete the program in 1 year of full time study or equivalent part time study. Applicants must also submit a portfolio of work, curriculum vitae and a written statement of intent.

Applicants who have completed a Bachelor (Honours) degree in a related discipline are eligible to enter the program with 1.0 EFTSL Advanced Standing and complete the program in 1 year of full time study or equivalent part time study. Applicants must also submit a portfolio of work, curriculum vitae and a written statement of intent.

Applicants who have completed the four year Bachelor of Interior Architecture from the University of South Australia are eligible to enter the program with 0.5 EFTSL Advanced Standing and complete the program in 1.5 years of full time study or equivalent part time study. Applicants must also submit a portfolio of work, curriculum vitae and a written statement of intent.

Related design disciplines include: interior architecture; interior design; furniture design; architecture.

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Degree overview

Gain advanced design and research skills.
Study a specialisation that is directly tailored to your interests.
Graduate with advanced professional and technical skills that extend beyond the knowledge and skills taught at undergraduate level.
Learn from teachers who are established designers, offering insight into what it takes to create sustainable, coherent, visually appealing interiors.
Study at the No.1 university in South Australia for graduate skills in Architecture¹.
Learn in world-class facilities in our custom-built on-campus workshops and studios.
Benefit from our networks and relationships with industry – locally, nationally, and internationally.
Work on real-life projects, gaining valuable practical experience.
UniSA is home to Australia’s only architecture museum filled with over 200,000 items, including records, drawing and photographs.
Use this qualification as a pathway to further study, including PhD studies.
UniSA is No.1 in South Australia for teaching quality in Architecture².
Be taught by world-class leaders in research – UniSA's research in design is ranked world class³.
UniSA is an unstoppable university for unstoppable people. As one of the World’s Top Young Universities⁴, we’ll ensure you get the experience your future profession demands so it’ll feel like you’re studying one minute and in a career the next.

¹ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2021-22, Architecture and Built Environment – Skills Development Indicator (Postgraduate). Public universities.
²ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2020-21, Architecture and Built Environment (Postgraduate). SA public universities.
³Results in Design Practice and Management - 2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA)
⁴UNSTOPPABLE® is a Kellogg Company trade mark used under licence. Ranked #43, 2024 THE Young University Rankings.

Snapshot

With a focus on design research, theory and practice, this degree will prepare you for a career as an interior designer. It will also provide you with an advanced understanding of the innovative, changing world of design.

A major focus of this degree is on design research, and you will complete an individual research-based project where you will be required to critically review, analyse, identify, and propose solutions to complex design challenges. You will also study the development and application of research processes and, in conjunction with industry, will be given the opportunity to work on creative projects, developing skills in writing project proposals and presenting information.

A focus on practical, hands-on learning also means you will not only gain the skills and knowledge needed to design stimulating, sustainable and visually appealing interiors but also the confidence to embark on real-world projects. You may have the opportunity to complete an industry placement as part of your studies.

Advanced Standing

Applicants who have completed a Bachelor (Honours) degree in the same specific discipline may be eligible to enter the program with 1.0 EFTSL Advanced Standing and complete the program in 1 year of full-time study or equivalent part-time study.

Applicants who have completed a 4 year Bachelor degree in Interior Architecture at UniSA are eligible to enter the program with 0.5 EFTSL Advanced Standing and complete the program in 1.5 years of full-time study or equivalent part-time study.

Applicants must submit a portfolio of work, curriculum vitae and a written statement of intent.

2 years- SATAC CODE 4CM131

1 year- SATAC CODE 4CM208

What you'll learn

By studying the Master of Design (Interior Architecture) you will develop an advanced and comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of designing and maintaining interior environments that are environmentally responsive and socially adaptable. You will also graduate with a sound knowledge of research methods.

During your first year you will complete multi-disciplinary core design courses, advanced research methods, an introduction to sustainable design, business practices, and your choice of electives. During your second year, you will undertake a yearlong project resulting in a professional standard presentation/exhibition.

Degree structure

Course name	Area and cat no.	Units	Reference
FIRST YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Research Studio 1	GRAP 5005	9		Rule(s): 1,2,3
Research Methods (Creative)	CREA 4004	4.5		Rule(s): 1,3
Nature, Culture and Sustainability	ARCH 6005	4.5		Rule(s): 1,2,3
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Research Studio 2	GRAP 5006	9		Rule(s): 1,3
Business Practice for Artists and Designers	VSAR 5006	4.5		Rule(s): 1,2,3
Elective		4.5	Note(s): 1,2	Rule(s): 1,3
SECOND YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Masters Project 1	GRAP 6001	9
Masters Project Report 1	ARCH 5036	4.5
Elective		4.5	Note(s): 1,2
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Masters Project 2	GRAP 6002	9
Masters Project Report 2	ARCH 5037	4.5
Elective		4.5	Note(s): 1,2

Electives

Course name	Area and cat no.	Units
Electives
Communication Contexts	COMM 5004	4.5
Campaigns and Crises	COMM 5005	4.5
Design, Production, Presentation	VSAR 5005	4.5
Entrepreneurial Foundations	BUSS 5298	4.5
Entrepreneurial Commercialisation	BUSS 5299	4.5
Consumer Culture, Technology and Sustainable Design	ARCH 6001	4.5
Principles of Sustainable Design	ARCH 6006	4.5
Professional Placement or Project	GRAP 5004	4.5
Construction on Site: Advanced	BUIL 5041	4.5
Construction in the Workshop: Advanced	BUIL 5040	4.5
Design Communication for Construction	ARCH 5048	4.5
Social Media Management	COMM 5069	4.5
Managing Digital Design	COMM 5068	4.5
Communication and Media: Advanced	COMM 4005	4.5
Industry 4.0 and Society	COMM 4006	4.5
Digital Entrepreneurship	COMM 4004	4.5
Content Creation	COMM 5084	4.5

Rules & notes

Rules

1. Students who have completed a Bachelor (Honours) in a related discipline are eligible to enter the program with 1.0 EFTSL Advanced Standing in lieu of these courses and complete the program in 1 year of full time study or equivalent part time study.

2. Students who have completed the four year Bachelor of Interior Architecture from the University of South Australia are eligible to enter the program with 0.5 EFTSL Advanced Standing in lieu of these courses and complete the program in 1.5 years of full-time study or equivalent part-time study.

3. Students who have completed a Master of Architecture or equivalent are eligible to enter the program with 1.0 EFTSL Advanced Standing in lieu of these courses and complete the program in 1 year of full time study or equivalent part time study.

Notes

1. Electives are selected from those listed above. Electives are designed to extend and expand students' intellectual and professional abilities in core and cognate areas of the curriculum and to provide scope for individual development in particular areas of professional and academic interest. A selection of electives will be offered each year, depending on staff availability and student demand. Students may choose to enrol in alternative electives with approval from their Program Director.

2. Students who have a Grade Point Average of 4.5 or more and wish to independently pursue a topic of interest not available in the electives offered in any one study period may choose a research or project based individual elective with the approval of the Program Director.

3. This program forms part of a nested suite of programs consisting of 72 units as follows: Graduate Diploma in Design comprising 36 units; Master of Design comprising a further 36 units.

Study hours

For each course you study, you will need to allocate time for various classes such as lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Plus you will need additional hours to study in your own time to complete assignments, readings and projects, as well as to contribute to online discussion forums. So as a general rule, if you are studying full-time you would need to allocate 12–26 hours of study when at university and 14–28 hours of independent study per week.

Assessment

Your studies will incorporate practical, professionally focused and research-based learning, so assessment types will vary. You can expect them to include:

research proposals
projects
artefact reviews
project reports
assignments and essays

Global opportunities

Enrich your studies and your life – make overseas study part of your qualification. You may have the option to undertake an exchange, short-term program or study tour overseas while you study. We have links with universities worldwide, as well as a range of travel grants available to make going overseas much more accessible.

You can choose short-term or semester-long study from a range of universities and countries depending on your area of study and cultural interests.

Take a look at the global opportunities available.

Why Master of Design (Interior Architecture)

This dynamic, highly creative degree offers a unique blend of hands-on experience and solid theoretical knowledge, ensuring you graduate with the tools needed for a successful career in this competitive field.

UniSA boasts purpose-built studio spaces and five floors of impressive workshops that feature state-of-the-art digital equipment. In addition to these world-class on-campus facilities, you will also benefit from:

our strong industry links when you embark on industry placements
industry master classes hosted by national and international industry professionals. We are also one of only two universities in Australia to combine art, architecture, design and planning principles, making us a great choice for students with a specific interest in these fields.

Our teaching staff have extensive professional design experience, so the curriculum is industry-relevant and mostly practical in nature. You will also work alongside world-class researchers in design¹.

This is a nested degree, which means that if for whatever reason you decide you want to exit the master degree before completion you may be eligible to graduate with a Graduate Diploma in Design.

It’s a very good time to choose UniSA for your postgraduate study.

¹Results in Design Practice and Management - 2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA)

Real-world connections

Our teaching staff are highly trained industry professionals who bring with them years of experience. They have strong industry links and many hold professional positions with national and international organisations. For you, this means links to industry and the opportunity to build important networks.

We also have well over 2,500 national and international industry partnerships University-wide – providing further opportunities for you to build important industry relationships. As part of your studies, you may have opportunities to take part in industry placements and attend master classes hosted by industry professionals.

UniSA offers an extensive range of career-related events and workshops online, on campus and around Adelaide to develop your skills and increase your knowledge.

Career outcomes

Your career

This master's degree consistently records high graduate employment rates. You could find work in architectural practices, interior design practices, building companies, other organisations supplying the design and building industry, such as corporate furniture suppliers and architectural practices, or public relations and marketing organisations. Careers to consider:

interior designer: design, implement and refurbish interior spaces
design consultant: help clients to best utilise living spaces by advising on how to arrange lighting, furniture, and other fixtures
event designer: oversee and direct the overall look and visual appeal of an event
furniture designer: develop design concepts, experiment with different materials, liaise with clients and build sample models for either mass produced furniture prototypes or one-off exclusive pieces

Industry facts

Employment for interior designers in Australia is projected to increase by 19.9 per cent by November 2020¹.

¹Australian Government Department of Employment, Occupational Employment Projections 2015

The architectural services sector in Australia is projected to grow and reach $7.1 billion in annual revenue by 2020¹.

¹IBISWorld’s Architectural Services market research report 2017

Employment for architects, designers, planners and surveyors in Australia is projected to increase by 17,500 (14.7 per cent) by November 2020¹.

¹Australian Government Department of Employment, Occupational Employment Projections 2015

UniStart - your 100% online pathway to a degree

Just starting out on your university journey, don’t meet the entry requirements for your chosen degree, or want to refresh your study skills? Set yourself up for success and pave the way to a degree with UniStart, UniSA Online’s six-month pathway program launching in 2025.

Apply now

How to apply

Applying to study with us:

go to the top of this page and make note of the SATAC code, then click Apply
you will be redirected through to the SATAC website to continue your application

Alternative Pathways

Australian
There are other pathways you can follow to study this degree, including:

Graduate Diploma in Design
Bachelor (Honours) degree in a related discipline

This degree is part of a nested suite of degrees, which means you may be able to exit early and graduate with a Graduate Diploma in Design.

Credit Transfer

Get a head start on your degree. Find out if you're eligible for credit from previous studies.

Go to credit assessor

Entry pathway

We believe in equal access to further education, so we offer a range of pathways to university.

Find a Pathway

Scholarships

Every year, over 2,500 UniSA students are supported in their studies through scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. Check out the scholarships below. One of them may be perfect for you. Visit our scholarships page for more.

More scholarships

Scholarship for student leadership

Available for students who are interested in undertaking specified activities with the aim of enhancing the overall student experience at UniSA.

Learn more

International travel grants

Travel Grants are available to participate in our Study Overseas Programs. UniSA has agreement with over 80 institutions globally.

Learn more

Your study experience and support

Our campuses have fantastic facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, tech zones, and spaces that simulate real work environments. You’ll also find student gyms and campus sport activities to keep you active. We also offer flexible study options, with online resources available for accessing lecture recordings, virtual classrooms, library resources and learning support.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit different requirements and budgets. Options include dedicated student accommodation and private rentals. See our long-term accommodation pages, or explore our student accommodation by Scape on Bank Street in Adelaide’s lively cultural precinct, an ideal location for students. It is within easy reach of UniSA’s city and metropolitan campuses, Rundle Mall shopping, the Central Market, Chinatown, and the West End’s vibrant nightlife. It is also across the road from the Adelaide train station, and on bus and tram routes.

Student services

Our student services provide you with all the support you need at university. You can access a full range of support services including academic and personal counselling, career advice, social support services, as well as those through our student association, USASA. When you become a UniSA student, you can also contact Campus Central for help with anything related to your degree. They will help you with your enrolment, ID cards, fees, timetables and more.

24/7 digital environment

Our learnonline facilities include a personal learning environment with virtual classrooms, lecture recordings, emails, learning support, administration, library access and results. The environment is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so you can tailor your learning to your life. We are continually investing in innovative digital technologies for a high-quality student learning experience.

Your campus

We have six campuses in metropolitan and regional areas, each with modern facilities including lecture theatres, libraries and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments.

Your study spaces

As a design student, you will have access to:

dedicated design studios and workshops
Australia’s only Architecture Museum

Your program director

I’m passionate about increasing awareness of Indigenous knowledges and providing expansive opportunities for students to engage in the educational process.

Mr Peter Walker

Program Director

Enquire

Mr Peter Walker

Program Director

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Ask UniSA

How do I apply?

The way you apply for UniSA will depend on the undergraduate or postgraduate coursework degree you're interested in studying.

The majority of applications are made via the South Australian Tertiary Admissions Centre (SATAC). Check out more information on the SATAC website and follow the appropriate process for your degree of interest.

There are a small number of degrees that you need to apply for through direct application processes. The process you need to follow will be listed on the 'How to Apply' section of the degree homepage, but you'll also be taken to where you need to go if you hit the 'apply' button.

If you are interested in studying one of our 100% online degrees you'll need to apply directly to UniSA Online.

You can find more information about the application processes for UniSA on our How to Apply webpage.

If you're more interested in applying for a postgraduate degree by research, check out and follow the information in our step by step guide to applying.
Is there a closing date for applications?

Applications for all degrees will close ahead of study commencing, but the timelines may vary for undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.

Undergraduate

The deadline to apply to study a degree at UniSA for semester one (commencing late February) and be guaranteed equal consideration is generally in very late November or early December. While you may be able to apply after this date, you are not guaranteed to be considered equally with other applicants and your application may not be assessed in time for the main round of offers. More competitive degrees may not make any offers after the main offer round. Find more information on the Key Dates section of the SATAC website, but you can also call the Future Student Enquiries team for more information on 08 8302 376.

Postgraduate

Many postgraduate by coursework degrees do not have set closing dates. The exceptions are highly competitive degrees, so it is best to check – either on the degree homepage on the SATAC website or by checking with our Future Student Enquiries team.

As most postgraduate applications are assessed as they are submitted and offers are continuous, there are no set closing dates for applications. Degrees can be filled and closed with little notice so it is best to apply as soon as possible to avoid missing out on a place. For more information, please contact our Future Student Enquires team on (08) 8302 2376 or submit an enquiry.
What credit can I receive for previous studies?

You may be eligible for credit or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area and completed within a certain timeframe. Receiving credit or RPL will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree. You can read more about our pre-existing credit agreements through our online Credit Assessor. If you have related industry experience, you may also be eligible to receive recognised prior learning (RPL) for this experience. Credit and RPL is assessed by the Program Director once you've received an offer, and you apply through UniSA's current student experts, Campus Central.
Can I speak to someone regarding my study options?

Future Student Enquiries welcomes the opportunity to meet with you to discuss your study options at UniSA. We can discuss degree information, entry requirements and pathways, applications, general career outcomes and student life, so you have the information to make the best study decision for your future. Head to our Book an Appointment webpage to find a date and time to speak with us, and take your next steps on journey to university study.