Contemporary Design Theory

Undergraduate | 2026

Course page banner
area/catalogue icon
Area/Catalogue
ARCH 3019
Course ID icon
Course ID
205223
Level of study
Level of study
Undergraduate
Unit value icon
Unit value
6
Course level icon
Course level
3
Study abroad and student exchange icon
Inbound study abroad and exchange
Inbound study abroad and exchange
The fee you pay will depend on the number and type of courses you study.
No
University-wide elective icon
University-wide elective course
No
Single course enrollment
Single course enrolment
No
alt
Note:
Course data is interim and subject to change

Course overview

This course will develop students' knowledge of a range of contemporary theoretical positions in architectural design nationally, regionally, and internationally, with an emphasis on design theory and practice from the 1960s to today. Students will advance their knowledge and vocabulary of architectural design theory and practice through the study of Australian and International contemporary architecture. Students will build upon their skills to critically analyse the key narratives and themes underpinning the development of contemporary architecture, interiors, and landscapes, and to describe design's relationship to contemporary society, environment, and cultural identity through academic research.

Course learning outcomes

  • Evaluate the built environment (ideological, cultural, contextual, and spatio-temporal) and apply this knowledge in the development of advanced discursive arguments of increasing complexity
  • Apply an advanced understanding of structured, written arguments about architecture and design that draws on historical precedent
  • Develop knowledge of a range of contemporary design theories
  • Apply a range of contemporary design theories to analyse design methods and architectural outcomes
  • Critically evaluate contemporary design projects in reference to their social and cultural role(s) in defining identity and cultural meaning

Prerequisite(s)

N/A

Corequisite(s)

N/A

Antirequisite(s)

N/A