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

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Entry requirements Degree overview Career outcomes How to apply Study experience

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International students

Start date
February
July

Campus
City West

Duration
2 year(s) full-time

Program Code
DMAE

Fees
2022: AUD$ 35,900 per annum (per 1.0 EFTSL)

English Language Requirements

IELTS total [6.5]
IELTS reading [6.0]
IELTS writing [6.0]

Equivalent English qualifications (PDF)

International Admission by Country
See full entry requirements

CRICOS Code
060208J

Entry requirements
1. Entry into the Master of Architecture program is competitive, based on academic merit, and subject to quota.
2. Entry requires successful completion of the Bachelor of Architectural Studies program at the University of South Australia or a Bachelor degree in a 3 year pre-professional architecture program from a recognised Australian higher education institution or equivalent. Applicants with a Bachelor degree in a 3 year pre-professional architecture program from a non-Australian higher education institution must also submit a portfolio as part of their application.
Alternative Entry

The University may admit other applicants who provide satisfactory evidence of academic achievement which the University recognises as equivalent to a completed Bachelor of Architectural Studies.
English language entry requirements
In addition, international students who speak English as an additional language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at the University of South Australia. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.
English language test
- IELTS total [6.5]
- IELTS reading [6.0]
- IELTS writing [6.0]
See equivalence table for other qualifications and English Language tests accepted by UniSA (PDF)
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Degree overview

Work in award-winning, purpose-designed facilities including dedicated design studios and workshops.
Study in a creative and multidisciplinary setting with students from the related fields of architecture, planning, art, design, journalism, communication and media, film and television, and the creative industries.
Learn from internationally-renowned and experienced teachers with industry-leading expertise and experience.
Pursue and develop specific areas of interest through design-based research and electives study.
Study at the No.1 university in South Australia for Graduate Careers in Architecture¹.
Engage in real-life projects through our award-winning student Design and Construct learning experience - the longest running and largest practice-based teaching program of its type in Australia.
Benefit from our strong relationships with local, national and international architectural practices.
UniSA is home to Australia’s only architecture museum filled with over 200,000 items, including records, drawings and photographs of Australian architecture.
Enhance your employment prospects by also enrolling in the Master of Design after completing the Master of Architecture where you can focus on expanding a specialised career in sustainable design.
UniSA is No.1 in South Australia for student satisfaction in Architecture¹.
Be taught by world-class leaders in research – UniSA's research in design is ranked world class².
UniSA is also No. 1 in South Australia for campus facilities in Architecture³.

¹ComparED (QILT) Graduate Outcomes Survey 2018-20, Architecture and Built Environment - Full-time Employment Indicator (Postgraduate). Public SA-founded universities only.
²Results in Design Practice and Management - 2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA).

³ComparED (QILT) Student Experience Survey 2019-20 – Architecture and Built Environments – Learning Resources Indicator (Postgraduate). Public SA-founded universities only.

Snapshot

This professionally accredited degree provides advanced learning in architecture design and how it relates to the environment, culture, and design and construction technology.

During your studies you will refine your technical and communication skills, and solve increasingly complex design problems. A focus on student-directed learning will also see you specialise in a specific area of interest through your choice of electives and research. In addition, you will have the opportunity to take part in award-winning Design and Construct courses, where you will design and build real-life architectural projects.

Our alumni work across the globe, from small boutique practices to leading international architectural practices.

What you'll learn

This master-level degree will provide you with advanced knowledge and understanding of design principles and methods; building structures and construction systems; digital design and communication methods; sustainable design strategies; how contemporary architectural practice operates; and the social and cultural history that shapes our built environment.

This degree has a strong practical focus – in design studio classes you will design complex projects informed by contemporary architectural practice and construction, as well as undertake research and hands-on learning through industry placements and coursework.

To successfully graduate from this degree, you must complete a total of 8 core courses and 4 electives; including advanced design studios and courses focusing on design-based research, theory, and the practice management. Four elective courses offer the opportunity for you to develop specific areas of interest in Design and Construct, Planning and Urban Design, Construction and Project Management, and Sustainable Design, further complimented by electives focusing on research, cultural experience and collaboration in our international study tours, and industry experience through our internship-based industry projects and placements.

Degree structure

Course name	Area and cat no.	Units	Reference
FIRST YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Advanced Architectural Design Studio (Environment)	ARCH 4033	9	Note(s): 4
Research Methods (Creative)	CREA 4004	4.5
Elective		4.5	Note(s): 1,2
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Advanced Architectural Design Studio (Construction)	ARCH 4008	9	Note(s): 4
Research Practices (Creative)	CREA 5001	4.5
Elective		4.5	Note(s): 1,2
SECOND YEAR
First Semester (Study Period 1, 2 or 3)
Architectural Design Research Studio (Context)	ARCH 4002	9	Note(s): 4
Professional Architectural Practice	ARCH 5035	4.5
Elective		4.5	Note(s): 1,2
Second Semester (Study Period 4, 5 or 6)
Architectural Design Research Studio (Integrated)	ARCH 4003	9	Note(s): 4
Contemporary Architectural Practice	ARCH 5034	4.5
Elective		4.5	Note(s): 1,2

Electives

Course name	Area and cat no.	Units
Design and Construct: Elective stream to Master of Design (Design Construct)
Construction in the Workshop	BUIL 2024	4.5
Construction on Site	BUIL 2023	4.5
Construction on Site: Advanced	BUIL 5041	4.5
Construction in the Workshop: Advanced	BUIL 5040	4.5
UO Construction Scheduling	BUIL 2028	4.5
UO Construction Environmental Science	CIVE 2015	4.5
UO Building Surveying	CIVE 3015	4.5
UO Building Estimating	BUIL 1024	4.5
Planning and Urban Design: Elective stream to Master of Urban and Regional Planning
Development Assessment	ARCH 6013	4.5
Urban Regeneration	ARCH 5051	4.5
Environmental Planning, Climate Change and Sustainability	ARCH 5041	4.5
Planning for Healthy Cities	ARCH 5043	4.5
Social Planning and Community Issues	ARCH 5022	4.5
Principles of Urban and Regional Planning	ARCH 5011	4.5
Sustainable Urban Design	ARCH 5013	4.5
Sustainable Urban Design Studio	ARCH 5030	4.5
Construction and Project Management: Elective stream to Master of Applied Project Management
Principles of Project Management	BUSS 5142	4.5
Project Leadership and Teams	BUSS 5102	4.5
UO Construction Scheduling	BUIL 2028	4.5
UO Building Services	CIVE 2013	4.5
UO Development Regulation	BUIL 4030	4.5
UO Project Appraisal	BUIL 3025	4.5
UO Building Estimating	BUIL 1024	4.5
UO Construction Environmental Science	CIVE 2015	4.5
Sustainable Design: Elective stream to Master of Design (Sustainable Design)
Sustainable Urban Design Studio	ARCH 5030	4.5
UO Construction Environmental Science	CIVE 2015	4.5
Social Planning and Community Issues	ARCH 5022	4.5
Project Leadership and Teams	BUSS 5102	4.5
Environmental Modelling of Architecture	ARCH 4045	4.5
Consumer Culture, Technology and Sustainable Design	ARCH 6001	4.5
Nature, Culture and Sustainability	ARCH 6005	4.5
Principles of Sustainable Design	ARCH 6006	4.5
Research electives
Architectural Research Thesis 1	ARCH 4043	4.5
Architectural Research Thesis 2	ARCH 4044	4.5
A list of other electives will be provided at the commencement of each year. Elective offerings are subject to change.
Professional Placement or Project	GRAP 5004	4.5
UniSA Creative Study Tour	ARCH 2045	4.5
Match Studio Projects	ARCH 2027	4.5
Match Studio Projects: Advanced	ARCH 5047	4.5

Rules & notes

Rules

1. Within a particular year students may choose to vary the sequence of study but are not permitted to take two Architectural Design Studios concurrently.

2. Students must normally complete the degree within 4 study periods of full time study (or its equivalent of part-time study) from the date of their initial enrolment, not including any periods of approved leave of absence or enforced suspension

Notes

1. 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 are required to undertake one elective stream from the Elective Stream offerings. Students are required to complete a minimum of two stream electives in their chosen elective stream. Details for each elective stream can be viewed on the program learnonline web site including all stream electives available each year. Students enrolled in the Master of Architecture may select from the specified electives listed, or as approved by the Program Director. With Program Director approval, students can undertake no more than 2 advanced undergraduate courses as electives.

2. Students intending to apply for a Higher Degree Research program are advised to select ARCH 4043 Architectural Research Thesis 1 and ARCH 4044 Architectural Research Thesis 2 as their electives.

3. Each design studio will require students to demonstrate an ability to integrate research and all other subject areas of the program into the design process.

4. Course offered in SP2 and SP5.

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 (independent study). 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 assessment through both speculative and practical learning activities that are designed to provide you with professional agility to respond to any challenge your careers in Architecture throw at you, primarily in the form of:

Design-based architectural and urban projects of varying scales and complexities presented and assessed as portfolios and oral presentations; and
Research and analysis into architecture history and design precedent presented and assessed as essays, reports, and oral presentations
Research and analysis into contemporary architectural practice and the professional regulations that impact on its operation through reports and assignment
Demonstrating 2D and 3D skills in composing digital and analogue drawings and models.

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 Architecture

Not all architects are the same, nor do they design the same types of architecture. In this degree, you will have the opportunity to customise your own areas of interest through elective studies in design and construct, environmental sustainability, project and construction management, urban planning and design, as well as architectural history and heritage conservation, and digital technologies and environments.

With a strong balance between design thinking and practicality, a widely recognised industry focus on graduate employability, you will develop your advanced skills and knowledge of architecture through design studio work, national and international field trips and collaborations, industry-led workshops and internships, and expert-led master classes.

You will also have the opportunity to take part in award-winning Design and Construct courses, where you will design and build community projects in remote locations in Australia and overseas with students from other design disciplines, just like in the real world. Some of the projects students have completed include the visitor accommodation at Port Resolution (Tanna Island, Vanuatu); Aboriginal ranger accommodation and research facilities in Fish River (Northern Territory, Australia); and accommodation and research facilities at Witchelina Station (South Australia, Australia).

Real-world connections

Our courses are supported by an extensive teaching team of over 100 practising architects from industry. Projects in design studios are drawn from industry, developing real-world skills and knowledge that enable students to connect with and lead in the evolution of the design and construction industry.

Additional networks are formed through multi-disciplinary coursework between students across multiple discipline areas and during national and international field trips, where you will learn first-hand what it’s like to work as an architect in other cultures and countries.

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

Hear what it is like to study Architecture at UniSA

Hear about Malavika's experience studying the Master of Architecture at UniSA.

Career outcomes

Your career

Architects are creative problem solvers by nature. They immerse themselves in new design technologies and construction materials, and push the boundaries of what is possible. A career in architecture is rewarding – you get the opportunity to shape and transform the world around you. Our graduates are also in demand, with UniSA ranked No.1 in South Australia for graduate careers in architecture¹. Careers to consider:

• Architect: combine creative design with technical knowledge to create sustainable solutions for the built environment
• Urban designer: design at the urban scale and participate in educating civic leaders and the public about the shaping of our cities
• Heritage consultant: develop sustainable practices in design to protect and maintain heritage sites of important ongoing cultural value
• Project or construction manager: involves initiating, planning, and managing a team to deliver project of varying scales and complexities.

* This degree does not lead to registration as an Architect in any State or Territory in Australia. The Bachelor of Architectural Studies is a pathway program to the Master of Architecture is an accredited Australian architecture qualification and provides a pathway to future registration as an architect. Only those practitioners registered with architectural registration boards, including the Architectural Practice Board of South Australia, are entitled to use the title ‘architect’ by law.

¹ComparED (QILT) Graduate Outcomes Survey 2018-20, Architecture and Built Environment - Full-time Employment Indicator (Postgraduate). Public SA-founded universities only.

Professional accreditation and recognition

This program is professionally accredited by the Architectural Practice Board of South Australia, endorsing the architecture qualifications of graduates required for registration as an architect. Accreditation demonstrates the achievement of relevant competencies from the AACA National Competency Standards in Architecture.

The Australian Institute of Architects recognises the program, endorsing architecture qualifications required for membership of the AIA, including student and graduate membership. Recognition of the program demonstrates compliance with the Institute's Education Policy Performance Criteria.

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 is projected to increase by 17,500 (14.7 per cent) by November 2020¹.

¹Australian Government Department of Employment, Occupational Employment Projections 2015

In 2014-15 there were an estimated 13,555 businesses in the Australian architectural sector (including sole practices) with an income of $6.4 billion, generating a profit of $603 million¹.

¹IBISWorld, Industry Profile: Architectural Services in Australia, August 2014.

How to apply

How to apply for international students will give you helpful information about the application process at the University of South Australia. When you are ready, apply through our International Application System. If you would like to talk to someone near you about studying at the University of South Australia, we have agents all over the world who can assist you. Find an Education Agent in your country.

Credit transfer

You could be eligible for credit for previous studies you have undertaken. Find out online.

Go to credit assessor

Life in Adelaide

Current international students talk about living in Adelaide and studying at UniSA.

Hear from our students

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

Vice Chancellor's International Excellence Scholarship

Recipients can get a 50% reduction on tuition fees for up to four years of full-time study for selected degrees.

Learn more

International Merit Scholarship

Recipients can get a 15% reduction on tuition fees for the duration of their chosen degree.

Learn more

Your study experience and support

As a UniSA student, you will have unique access to work placement opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events, internships, guest speakers and more.

Our campuses are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform. We have health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and great student lounges. You will also gainaccess to a range of community clinics, which provide professional and cost effective services in areas of health, business, law and psychology. There are campus sport activities to keep you active, and if you are keen to explore the social side of university life, there are movies, cooking demonstrations, parties and lots more.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit different requirements and budgets should you need, from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. See our long-term accommodation pages or explore our student accommodation by urbanest on Bank Street in Adelaide’s lively cultural precinct, an ideal perfect 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 international student services provide you with all the support you need at university. We want you to succeed, and if you need help, we're here to assist. You can access a full range of support services, including:

career advice and mentoring
help with student visas and health cover
personal counselling
academic counselling
fees and finance help
common rooms
prayer rooms
security officers
accommodation services
as well as services offered through our student association, USASA

We also offer study support from our Learning Advisers face-to-face or online. They are here to help you develop academically and professionally during your studies, and can offer help with the English language too. 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 advanced facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries and laboratories, as well as spaces that simulate real work environments.

Your study spaces

As an architecture student, you will have access to:

dedicated safe and secure design studios accessible 24/7
Australia’s only Architecture Museum
digital and traditional workshops
specialised computer suites and access to industry-leading software on your own computers

Your program director

Architects fulfil a critical role in society through shaping the environment in which we live. Architecture brings together the technical, the cultural and the creative – a combination that makes studying and working in architecture challenging, and incredibly rewarding.

Dr Chris Brisbin

Program Director

Enquire

Dr Chris Brisbin

Program Director

Enquire

Ask UniSA

How to apply?

There are a number of ways to apply to study UniSA's undergraduate and postgraduate coursework degrees.

You can access our online International Application System through our How to Apply page. The International Application System is an easy and secure online application and acceptance process. You will have visibility of your application through the secure online portal with the ability to download offer documents, submit your acceptance and make a payment.

Alternatively you can submit an application through one of the University's registered Education Agents.

If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC http://www.satac.edu.au/.

If you are applying for the UniSA Study Abroad or Study Abroad Plus program, you can submit your application online here.

Postgraduate study by research
For information on applying to do postgraduate study by research, including Masters by Research, PhDs or Doctorates, please visit http://unisa.edu.au/resdegrees.
Is there a closing date for applications?

There is no closing date for submitting your application however the admissions process takes between one and three weeks from the date that we receive your application and all required supporting documentation.

If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC. Key dates for applications can be found here.
What credit can I receive for previous studies?

You may be eligible to receive credit or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area at an equivalent or higher level. Receiving credit will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree.

The amount of credit you may be eligible to receive is assessed on a case-by-case basis by the Admissions team.

The best way to determine your eligibility to receive credit or advanced standing is to apply using our International Application System which can be found on our How to Apply page. You will need to supply detailed syllabus documents with your application.
Can I speak to someone regarding my study options?

UniSA welcomes the opportunity to speak with you regarding your study options. Our staff are able to talk to you about degree information, career outcomes and pathways, entry requirements, applications, and student life, so that you are able to make the best study decision for your future.

Click here to book a 1:1 appointment with one of our enquiries team.

We also have many events throughout the year in Australia and overseas where you can speak with UniSA representatives about your area of interest. View our calendar of events in your home country by selecting the 'International' filter.

More FAQs

What others are saying

I was a paramedic for nine years before I decided I wanted to study architecture. UniSA is guiding me to be industry ready, strengthening the beginning of my career, and challenging me to think differently, to solve problems using a strong and evolving toolkit.

Christopher Pongrac

Bachelor of Architectural Studies, Master of Architecture

Christopher Pongrac

Bachelor of Architectural Studies, Master of Architecture

Hear from Chris as he shares his experiences studying at UniSA and his journey as a Master of Architecture graduate.

William Yuan

Adam Jack

Adrian Conterno

Cheuk Pong Yan

Christopher Pongrac

Emerson Walker

Katarina Jovanovic

UniSA Architecture students constructing visitor accommodation for a remote Vanuatu community so that tourism will help local villagers afford education for their children.