Why Master of Architecture?
Architects are big thinkers, pairing creative and technical knowledge to shape and transform the built environment. They combine aesthetics, construction technology, and environmental and social sustainability together to translate clients' ideas into reality. Unravel the intricacies of design, construction, and urban planning and engage with social, economic and environmental processes to proactively shape the future of built environments.
Our Master of Architecture will extend your knowledge of contemporary architecture practice, equipping you with the technical and creative skills ready to pursue an exciting career.
Learn in specialised architectural design studios and collaborate on real-world industry projects. You could work on heritage projects or design the world’s tallest skyscraper. With a future demand for skilled architects, you’ll graduate with the knowledge and skills to make a global impact on our changing world.
Overview
Our Master of Architecture equips you with advanced expertise in architectural design, its relationship with the environment, culture, and advancements in design and construction technologies.
Develop the technical and creative skills across advanced contemporary architecture courses that foster collaborative and innovative research practices.
You'll learn in purpose-designed facilities including dedicated design studios and workshops. Here, you’ll engage with industry professionals and real clients to develop solutions that respond to real-world challenges.
Our students can expect to explore career paths in a range of industries once they graduate. This degree can also lead to higher degrees by research or complementing further study.
Key features
Develop advanced knowledge and skills for contemporary architectural practice. - Engage with social, cultural, economic, technological and environmental processes in studio-based workshops.
- Benefit from innovative research and industry partnerships.
- Draw on real-world projects in specialised design and workshop studios.
- Learn from internationally recognised, experienced academics and industry leaders.
What you'll learn
Our Master of Architecture will build your competence in applying knowledge and skills in architectural communication, simulation and generative technologies.
In this degree, you will have the opportunity to develop advanced knowledge in a specialised area of interest aligned with your career ambitions.
You’ll take core courses in design research processes and approaches to working effectively with culturally diverse communities. These courses are designed to broaden your knowledge in architectural practices in a range of environments.
With flexibility to choose your own electives, you can focus on areas such as sustainable design, project and construction management, design construct projects, or broaden your skills in career development and design communication.
Enjoy dedicated studio and workshop spaces, equipped with technologies to explore digital and analogue experimentation and fabrication. Benefit from hands-on learning through industry-led and practically focused coursework.
You’ll also exhibit your work in our Adelaide student-focused spaces, alongside participating in academic engagement programs and workshops. Adelaide University also hosts the internationally recognised Architecture Museum, which acts a facility for the acquisition, preservation, and management of South Australian architectural records.
Assessments in this degree include project-based learning, oral presentations, case studies, essays, design portfolios, learning journals, and tests/quizzes.
What courses you'll study
Complete 96 units comprising:
- 84 units for all Core courses, and
- 0 to 6 units from Work integrated learning, and
- 6 to 12 units for Electives
Complete 84 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Course name
Advanced Architectural Design Research Studio (Context and Culture)
|
Course code
ARCH5001
|
Units
12
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Architectural Communication Technologies
|
Course code
ARCH5002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Architectural Structures
|
Course code
ARCH5003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Architectural Design Studio (Construction Technologies)
|
Course code
ARCH5004
|
Units
12
|
|
|
Course name
Architectural Design Research Methods
|
Course code
ARCH5005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Architectural Design Studio (Sustainable Environments)
|
Course code
ARCH6001
|
Units
12
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Environments and Technologies
|
Course code
ARCH6002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Reflective Practices
|
Course code
ARCH6003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Architectural Design Research Studio (Graduate Project)
|
Course code
ARCH6004
|
Units
12
|
|
|
Course name
Professional Practice in Architecture
|
Course code
ARCH6005
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
 |
Course name
Advanced Architectural Design Research Studio (Context and Culture)
|
Course code
ARCH5001
|
Units
12
|
|
Course name
Advanced Architectural Communication Technologies
|
Course code
ARCH5002
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Advanced Architectural Structures
|
Course code
ARCH5003
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Advanced Architectural Design Studio (Construction Technologies)
|
Course code
ARCH5004
|
Units
12
|
|
Course name
Architectural Design Research Methods
|
Course code
ARCH5005
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Year 2 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Advanced Architectural Design Studio (Sustainable Environments)
|
Course code
ARCH6001
|
Units
12
|
|
Course name
Advanced Environments and Technologies
|
Course code
ARCH6002
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Reflective Practices
|
Course code
ARCH6003
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Advanced Architectural Design Research Studio (Graduate Project)
|
Course code
ARCH6004
|
Units
12
|
|
Course name
Professional Practice in Architecture
|
Course code
ARCH6005
|
Units
6
|
Complete 0 to 6 units from the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Architectural Professional Experience
|
Course code
ARCH4900
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Advanced Architectural Design Research Studio (Context and Culture)
|
Course code
ARCH5001
|
Units
12
|
|
Course name
Advanced Architectural Communication Technologies
|
Course code
ARCH5002
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Advanced Architectural Structures
|
Course code
ARCH5003
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Advanced Architectural Design Studio (Construction Technologies)
|
Course code
ARCH5004
|
Units
12
|
|
Course name
Architectural Design Research Methods
|
Course code
ARCH5005
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Year 2 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Advanced Architectural Design Studio (Sustainable Environments)
|
Course code
ARCH6001
|
Units
12
|
|
Course name
Advanced Environments and Technologies
|
Course code
ARCH6002
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Reflective Practices
|
Course code
ARCH6003
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Advanced Architectural Design Research Studio (Graduate Project)
|
Course code
ARCH6004
|
Units
12
|
|
Course name
Professional Practice in Architecture
|
Course code
ARCH6005
|
Units
6
|
Complete 6 to 12 units comprising:
- 6 to 12 units for all Program electives
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Design Construct in the Workshop
|
Course code
ARCH5017
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Advanced Design Construct on Site
|
Course code
BLDG5900
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Advanced Architectural Design Research Studio (Context and Culture)
|
Course code
ARCH5001
|
Units
12
|
|
Course name
Advanced Architectural Communication Technologies
|
Course code
ARCH5002
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Advanced Architectural Structures
|
Course code
ARCH5003
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Advanced Architectural Design Studio (Construction Technologies)
|
Course code
ARCH5004
|
Units
12
|
|
Course name
Architectural Design Research Methods
|
Course code
ARCH5005
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Year 2 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Advanced Architectural Design Studio (Sustainable Environments)
|
Course code
ARCH6001
|
Units
12
|
|
Course name
Advanced Environments and Technologies
|
Course code
ARCH6002
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Reflective Practices
|
Course code
ARCH6003
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Advanced Architectural Design Research Studio (Graduate Project)
|
Course code
ARCH6004
|
Units
12
|
|
Course name
Professional Practice in Architecture
|
Course code
ARCH6005
|
Units
6
|
Career outcomes
Architects are innovative problem-solvers who use cutting-edge technology and collaboration to bring imaginative designs to life, shaping our world in the process.
As a graduate of the Master of Architecture, you might specialise in preserving and restoring historic buildings and landmarks. Or build sustainable housing to cater for the world’s booming population.
Careers to consider include:
- Architect (subject to registration requirements)
- Urban designer
- Heritage consultant.
You might also like to explore other industries where your skills and knowledge in 3D modelling, computational design and collaboration are highly valued.
Industry trends
The Australian Government is set to invest $9.6 billion AUD in infrastructure projects. With more projects underway, the demand for architects grows. Creativity and innovation are becoming essential for professionals in this field as employers seek critical thinking skills, especially in adapting to new technologies and anticipating future trends (Australian Government, 2022).
It is predicted that Australia will need more than 1.8 million new technology skills by 2030. The strong growth in overall technology workers is expected to continue rising, with the total number of technology roles for architects, designers, graphic and web designers, growing at a yearly rate of 5.5% (Deloitte Digital Pulse, 2023).
Accreditation
This program is accredited by the Architectural Practice Board of South Australia, endorsing the architecture qualifications of graduates required for entry to the Architectural Practice Examination and future registration as an architect in Australia. Accreditation demonstrates the achievement of relevant performance criteria in the National Standard of Competency for Architects published by the Architects Accreditation Council of Australia (AACA).
Ready to apply?
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.
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:
- Case studies
- Essays and assignments
- Examinations
- Group projects
- Internships and placements
- Practicals
- Presentations
- Reports and project documentations
- Research projects
- Workplace and classroom contributions.
