Undergraduate | 2026

Bachelor of Architectural Design

Start date

February, July

Campus

Adelaide City

Duration

3 year(s) full-time

Mode

Hybrid

Program code

BARCH

Study as

Full-time

Indicative annual fees

$48,100

Prerequisite

None

Assumed knowledge

None

English language requirements

IELTS Overall 6.5 IELTS Reading 6.0 IELTS Listening 6.0 IELTS Speaking 6.0 IELTS Writing 6.0 Equivalent English qualifications

CRICOS code

115676M

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible for admission, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate they fulfill any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.

Recent secondary education (Year 12)

Completion of a secondary education qualification equivalent to the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE).

Vocational Education and Training (VET)

Completion of an award from a registered training organisation (RTO) at Certificate IV (AQF level 4) or higher.

Higher education study

Successful completion of at least 6 months full-time study (or equivalent part-time) of an undergraduate certificate (AQF level 5) or higher qualification from a recognised higher education institution.

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 Adelaide University. 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.

IELTS Overall 6.5
IELTS Reading 6.0
IELTS Listening 6.0
IELTS Speaking 6.0
IELTS Writing 6.0

Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by Adelaide University and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements:

Equivalent English qualifications

International admissions by country

Country	Score
Australia – ATAR	75
Bangladesh – Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC)	4.85
China – Gaokao	65%
Hong Kong – Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)	17
India – CBSE and CISCE	75
India – State Board Examinations	85
Kenya – Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE)	B+
Malaysia – Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM)	2.78
Malaysia – United Entrance Certificate (UEC)	20
Malaysia – Matrikulasi	2.78
Singapore - Singapore GCE Advanced Levels	8
Sri Lanka – GCE A Levels	9
Vietnam – Year 12 - Bằng Tốt Nghiệp Trung Học Phổ Thông	8.00

Why Bachelor of Architectural Design?

Architects are big thinkers, pairing design ability with technical innovation to shape the built environment of tomorrow. Working with clients and organisations, architects bring human and community needs, aesthetics, technology, ethics and the environment together to create enjoyable and functional buildings and spaces for living, working, and other uses. Whether you’re a design enthusiast or eager to contribute to the future built environment, an architectural design degree will set you up for a variety of diverse and fulfilling careers. An ever-evolving profession that is constantly in demand, there’s no limit to where architectural design could lead you.

Overview

Make an impact with your creative problem-solving abilities in the broad ranging field of architecture, where you could do anything from helping to preserve treasured heritage sites to designing inclusive and sustainable architecture of the future.

The Bachelor of Architectural Design will equip you with the problem-solving skills and creative expertise needed to tackle design challenges through an ethical understanding of culture and the natural environment.

You’ll learn how to design projects of varying scales and complexities, overcoming obstacles to deliver sustainable solutions. You’ll become an effective communicator, understanding how to co-design projects that realise your client’s vision.

Key features

Explore the world around you and understand how humans create spaces within it.
Develop creative and architectural knowledge based on innovative research and active partnerships with industry.
Learn essential skills like hand-drawing, physical and digital modelling, graphic techniques and programming.
Study in purpose-built studios and access the same software and digital tools used in professional practice.
Learn from highly respected educators with real-world experience.
Continue your studies through a Master of Architecture, which can lead to professional registration as an architect.

What you'll learn

The Bachelor of Architectural Design is your entry into the study of architecture. You’ll study coursework that will develop your skills and understanding of design principles and methods; building structures and construction systems; digital design and communication methods; sustainable design strategies; and the social and cultural history that shapes our world.

Through this degree, you’ll study Undergraduate Core courses that are common to all architecture degrees.

You’ll study tailored subjects in areas such as:

Architectural Design Studios
Design and Digital Communication
Environmental Design
Architectural Construction and Technology
Architectural Design History, Theory and Cultures.

You’ll also have the opportunity to broaden your thinking through cross-disciplinary electives in areas like design and construct, construction management, graphic and communication design art, and animation. This will enable you to work with diverse teams, build communication skills, and realise the integral relationship between architectural design and other creative disciplines.

A selection of architectural design studios embed work integrated learning with real world projects. Led by experienced practising architects, you’ll consolidate your learning by applying contemporary design thinking, strategies, and practices in activities you’d be expected to complete in your future workplace.

This degree will also help you to enhance your employability by developing essential interpersonal, communication, cultural literacy and professional collaboration skills that can be applied to any industry.

Master pathways

Looking to take the next step in your architecture studies? The Bachelor of Architectural Design is the primary pathway to a Master of Architecture, which leads to future registration as an architect.

What courses you'll study

Complete 144 units comprising:

66 units for all Core courses, and
12 units for all Work integrated learning, and
30 units for all Electives, and
Either:
36 units for all Discipline courses, or
36 units for one Major from Major

Complete 66 units for ALL of the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name UG Common Core 1	Course code AUXX1000	Units 6
Course name UG Common Core 2	Course code AUXX2000	Units 6
Course name UG Common Core 3	Course code AUXX3000	Units 6
Course name Design Studio (Principles)	Course code ARCH1000	Units 6
Course name Design Communication (Principles)	Course code ARCH1002	Units 6
Course name Design Construction (Principles)	Course code ARCH1003	Units 6
Course name Architectural Design Studio (Home)	Course code ARCH1004	Units 6
Course name Architectural Design Cultures	Course code ARCH1005	Units 6
Course name Environmental Design and the Sensory Body	Course code ARCH1006	Units 6
Course name Contemporary Architecture Theory	Course code ARCH2000	Units 6
Course name Digital Design Communication	Course code ARCH2007	Units 6

Complete 36 units for ALL of the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Architectural Design Studio (Context and Cultures)	Course code ARCH3000	Units 12
Course name Architectural Design Studio (Tectonics)	Course code ARCH3001	Units 12
Course name Multi-storey Technologies	Course code ARCH3003	Units 6
Course name Environmental Ecologies and Systems	Course code ARCH3014	Units 6

Complete one Major from the following:

Major name
	Major Urban Planning

Complete 12 units for ALL of the following:

Course name		Course code	Units
	Course name Architectural Design Studio (Urban Landscapes)	Course code ARCH2004	Units 6
	Course name Architectural Design Studio (Communication)	Course code ARCH2011	Units 6

Complete 30 units for ALL of the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Elective 1	Course code AUXX1011	Units 6
Course name Elective 2	Course code AUXX1012	Units 6
Course name Elective 3	Course code AUXX1013	Units 6
Course name Elective 4	Course code AUXX1014	Units 6
Course name Elective 5	Course code AUXX1015	Units 6

Career outcomes

You’ll graduate with the ability to develop and professionally implement design ideas. You might design eco-friendly social housing for a growing community. You could engage in public policy, sparking new ideas and strategies to ensure heritage sites are kept intact and their cultural significance valued. Perhaps you might help build the next landmark building or design a world-class concert hall.

Your career pathways may include:

Architect (with further study)
Landscape architect (with further study)
Architectural graduate
Draftsperson
Urban designer
Environmental designer
Architectural technician
Heritage consultant.

The Bachelor of Architectural Design is a recognised pathway to the Master of Architecture. A Masters qualification (or equivalent) is required to seek future registration as an ‘architect’. Only those practitioners registered with the relevant registration authority are entitled to use the title architect by law.

Industry trends

Living harmoniously with nature has never been more crucial as we see the impacts of climate change on communities in Australia and abroad. Environmental concerns are a driver for many industries, with architects deemed critical to the transition to a clean energy workforce (Jobs and Skills Australia, April 2024). As the world’s population continues to grow, people with the skills to support shifting societal needs will be in-demand to create homes, buildings and community spaces. Increased demand for housing has seen Australia experience a national shortage of architects, and significant future demand is expected (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2024).

How to apply

Check your eligibility

Before you begin, find the degree you wish to study and check you meet the academic entry requirements and English language requirements.

Entry requirements

Gather your relevant documents

Ensure you have all supporting documentation needed at the time of application to avoid delays.

How to apply

Complete and send your application

Apply through one of the University’s official agency partners, or via our online application system.

Apply now

How to apply

Applications for international students are open now, to begin your studies in 2026.

Apply through one of the University’s official Education Agents, or via our International Application System.

Find an Education Agent

Depending on your country of citizenship, you may be required to apply through one of our Education Agents.

Find an education agent in your country

FAQs

Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.

From August 2025 you can apply as a domestic student for entry to Adelaide University in 2026.
Applications for 2026 will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs. A direct application process will be available for 100% online degrees at a later date. In the meantime, you could start your degree at UniSA or the University of Adelaide and continue at Adelaide University.

Adelaide University is South Australia’s largest university with seven campuses across the state. Adelaide City Campus is in the heart of the central business district (including eastern and western precincts), while our Magill, Mawson Lakes and Waite campuses are located within the inner suburbs of Adelaide. Our Mount Gambier, Roseworthy and Whyalla campuses are set in the regions of South Australia. Building on our digital and online learning successes, we aim to also deliver online education to more students than any other Australian university.

Each of our campuses is equipped with cutting-edge, discipline specific facilities, contemporary study spaces and well-resourced libraries. Our city and suburban campuses also feature on-site gyms and eateries, and health services on, or nearby, campus.

You will be well supported academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually with access to on-campus facilities and services such as counselling, learning support, childcare, prayer rooms and more.

You will be well supported through a range of services at Adelaide University to ensure you get the most out of your student experience. Support services include:

Academic learning support, including after-hours support provided via Studiosity through live online chat assistance with writing, referencing, mathematics and more.
Advice and advocacy regarding access, adjustments and inclusivity if you have a disability, impairment, chronic health condition or significant caring responsibilities.
Libraries providing flexible study spaces, access to books, computer suites and online resources – as well as referencing support, search tips and more.
Career development hub, including extensive self-help resources, online learning programs, on-campus events, workshops and networking, one-on-one advice, and job search support.
Qualified counsellors who can provide confidential support to manage your mental health and wellbeing.
On-campus medical clinics on-site where you can make an appointment with a General Practitioner (GP) to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, visa and work rights and academic policies and procedures.
An active and visible LGBTIQA+ Ally Network that ensures the University provides a supportive environment where all staff and students can safely work and study free of harassment or discrimination.
Prayer rooms on campus, including gender specific spaces for worship purposes.
Campus security available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure all students feel safe on campus.
A range of scholarships offered to commencing and continuing students each year to make university life a little easier.
A number of social outlets including student lounges, gyms, student-led clubs, sports teams and free events throughout the year.

Your tuition fees will depend on your program of study and enrolment load. You can find the annual fees relevant to your program on the specific degree page under the ‘fees’ section. The annual fee payable for your chosen program will also be outlined in your Offer of Admission.

Adelaide University will open in January 2026. Your studies will start at different times depending on what study period you’ve applied for. Adelaide University is currently using a semester model, which means most degrees start in Semester 1. Some degrees are also available to start in mid-year, sometimes with a different degree structure. 

Studies at Adelaide University typically commence in:  

February for Semester 1  
July for Semester 2.

Some degrees, such as the Bachelor of Medical Studies and Master of Business Administration, will have different starting dates. View the relevant degree page for more detail. 

For other key dates, including census dates and exam periods, you can view our Academic calendar. 

View all FAQs

Your study experience and support

Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.

You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.

Student services

We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:

Career advice and mentoring services
Personal counselling
LGBTQIA+ support
Academic support
Fees and finance help
Security services
Accommodation services
Common rooms
Prayer rooms.

You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.

Your campus

You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.

This degree is offered at the following campus(es)

Study hours

Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.

Assessment

During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include: