Master of Architecture
Degree Level Postgraduate
Year 2025
You're viewing degree information for International students
You're considered an International student if you are:
- NOT an Australian or New Zealand citizen
- NOT an Australian Permanent Resident (including Permanent Humanitarian Visa holders)
Program Code
DMAE
Fees
AUD$ 42,000 per annum (per 1.0 EFTSL) for students enrolled in 2025
English Language Requirements
- IELTS total [6.5]
- IELTS reading [6.0]
- IELTS writing [6.0]
International Admission by Country
See full entry requirements
CRICOS Code
060208J
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Entry requirements
- Entry into the Master of Architecture program is competitive, based on academic merit, and subject to quota.
- 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 testPlease access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by UniSA and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements: English Language Equivalence Table (PDF)- IELTS total [6.5]
- IELTS reading [6.0]
- IELTS writing [6.0]
Degree overview
- Work in award-winning, purpose-designed facilities, including dedicated design studios and workshops that are accessible 24/7 and are ranked No.1 in South Australia for Campus facilities in Architecture1.
- Study in a creative and multidisciplinary setting with students from the related fields of architecture, interior architecture, urban planning, contemporary art, product and communication design, journalism, communication and media, film and television, animation, and the creative industries.
- Learn from internationally renowned and experienced teachers with industry-leading expertise and experience and world-class leaders in research - UniSA's research in design is ranked world-class2.
- Enhance your employment prospects by developing specific areas of interest while you study in one of four elective streams focusing on Sustainable Design, Design Construct, Urban and Regional Planning, and Construction and Project Management.
- Each elective stream provides credit towards other master qualifications after completing the Master of Architecture, such as the Master of Design (2x masters in 3 years), Master of Urban and Regional Planning (2x masters in 3.5 years), and Master of Project Management (2x masters in 3.5 years).
- Have the opportunity to take part in our unique award-winning Design Construct courses, where you will collaborate in designing and building real-world projects across Australia - the longest-running and largest practice-based teaching of its type in Australia.
- Benefit from our strong relationships with local, national and international architectural practices through experienced practitioner teachers and professional placement learning experiences. Study at the No.1 university in South Australia for Graduate Careers in Architecture3.
- UniSA is home to Australia’s only Architecture Museum filled with over 200,000 items, including records, drawings, and photographs of Australian architecture.
- 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 – Learning Resources Indicator (Undergraduate and Postgraduate). SA public universities.
2Results in Design Practice and Management - 2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA).
3ComparED (QILT) Graduate Outcomes Survey 2020-22, Architecture and Built Environment – Full-time Employment Indicator (Domestic Undergraduate and Postgraduate). SA public universities.
4UNSTOPPABLE® is a Kellogg Company trade mark used under licence. Ranked #43, 2024 THE Young University Rankings.
Snapshot
This professionally accredited degree provides advanced skills and knowledge in architecture design and how it relates to the environment, culture, and design and construction technologies.
A focus on student-directed learning will also see you specialise in a specific area of interest through your choice of electives streams from Sustainable Design, Design Construct, Planning and Urban Design, or Construction and Project Management, or choose electives focusing on research, national and international study tours, and industry experience.
Our highly successful graduates work across the globe, from award-winning local architectural practices to international practices with offices around the world.
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 histories that shape our world, including Aboriginal and First Nations cultural practices.
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-based professional placements and industry-led and practically-focussed coursework.
To successfully graduate from this degree, you must complete a total of eight core courses (54 units) and four electives (18 units); including advanced design studios that focus on the Environment, Construction, and Context, and integration of supporting courses focusing on design-based research and, how professional architectural practices operate.
Four elective courses offer you the opportunity to develop specific areas of interest in Design Construct, Planning and Urban Design, Construction and Project Management, or Sustainable Design, further complimented by electives focusing on research, national and international study tours, and industry experience through professional placements.
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
- Research and analysis into architecture and cultural history and design precedent, including Aboriginal and First Nations, presented and assessed as essays, reports and oral presentations
- Research and analysis into contemporary architectural practice and the professional regulations that impact its effective operation through reports and assignments
- Demonstrating 2D and 3D skills in composing digital and analogue drawings and models, including Virtual and Augmented Reality and game engine environments.
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
With a strong balance between design thinking and practicality, and a widely recognised industry focus on career-ready graduate employability, you will develop your advanced skills and knowledge of architecture through architectural design studios that teach you how to apply complex concepts and design methods to the design or architectural buildings of varying functions, scales, and complexities. In addition, you will take part in national and international study tours with multi-disciplinary design collaborations with other students, and learn from industry-led workshops, masterclasses, and professional placements in the best architectural offices across South Australia.
You’ll also have the opportunity to take part in unique award-winning Design Construct coursework, where you’ll collaborate, design, and build projects in locations across Australia and overseas with students from other design disciplines. Some of the projects students have designed and built 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).
Study at UniSA
Hear from graduate Malavika as she shares her experiences studying a Master of Architecture at UniSA.
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. They work collaboratively with their clients and other planning, design, and construction-related professionals to realise their clients' design imagination. A career in architecture is rewarding because 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 shaping our streets, suburbs, and cities
- Heritage consultant: develop sustainable re-use 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 projects of varying scales and complexities.
* The professionally accredited Master of Architecture qualification is required under the Architectural Practice Act (SA, 2009) to seek future registration as an ‘architect’ in South Australia and New Zealand. Only those practitioners registered with architectural registration boards in each State and Territory in Australia, including the Architectural Practice Board of South Australia, are entitled to use the title ‘architect’ by law. Graduates of the Bachelor of Architectural Studies, or equivalent qualifications from other education providers, may apply for entry into the Master of Architecture.
1ComparED (QILT) Graduate Outcomes Survey 2020-22, Architecture and Built Environment – Full-time Employment Indicator (Domestic Undergraduate and Postgraduate). SA public universities.
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
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.
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.
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.
International Merit Scholarship
Recipients can get a 15% reduction on tuition fees for the duration of their chosen degree.
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 gain access 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. 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 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 study spaces
As an architecture student, you will have access to:
- dedicated safe and secure design studios that are accessible 24/7
- Australia’s only Architecture Museum to research about Australian architectural design
- digital and traditional workshops to make models of your design projects
- specialised computer suites on-campus and, in addition, access to industry-leading 2D and 3D computer-design 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.
Ask UniSA
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How do I 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.
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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.
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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.
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
Hear from UniSA graduates and Co-Founders/Directors of Studio Gram, Dave Bickmore and Graham Charbonneau, about their experiences studying Architecture at UniSA and how it has helped them reach their career goals.
Hear from Chris as he shares his experiences studying at UniSA and his journey as a Master of Architecture graduate.
Hear about Subook and Harshada's experiences studying Architecture at UniSA.
William Yuan
Adam Jack
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Cheuk Pong Yan
Christopher Pongrac
Emerson Walker
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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.
Leading academics talk about art, architecture and design at the University of South Australia.
Forge 2016 is a celebration of the work done by Master of Architecture and Interior Architecture graduates.
