Master of Architecture

Postgraduate | 2026

Mode

On Campus

Start date

February, July

Campus

Adelaide City

Duration

2 year(s) full-time

Program code

MAARC

Study as

Full-time

Indicative annual fees

$50,500

Non-tuition fees

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

115897J

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible, an applicant must have achieved the following minimum entry requirement and demonstrate they fulfil any 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.

A completed Bachelor of Architectural Design; OR
A 3-year pre-professional architecture program from a recognised Australian higher education institution or equivalent.

Applicants with a bachelor degree in architecture from a non-Australian institution may be considered and will be required to provide a portfolio.

The portfolio should include the applicant's own creative works from previous degrees, professional, and/or personal background, showing design skills, knowledge, and familiarity with a range of design tools and media. In addition to final outcomes, it should comprise evidence of design process, development and drawing documentation. The portfolio may include material developed with others if clearly referenced and the applicant's contribution explained.

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

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 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

Complete 0 to 6 units from the following:

Course name		Course code	Units
	Course name Architectural Professional Experience	Course code ARCH4900	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

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

Adelaide University is working through relevant approvals for program accreditation ahead of students commencing in 2026.

Ready 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

Please note that a non-refundable application fee of AUD$150 applies for every application submitted to Adelaide University.

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.

Applications for Australian students to study at Adelaide University will open in August 2025. Applications will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs.

Applications to study a 100% online degree will open in July 2025 via a direct application process.

In the meantime, you could start your studies at UniSA or the University of Adelaide in 2025 and continue on to Adelaide University in 2026.

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, spanning 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 to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, 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 the 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: