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Bachelor of Design (Architecture)

Undergraduate degree

Explore innovative real-world projects and learn about architectural ideas, building science and design. Transform your ideas into a rewarding career.

Key facts

English language requirements

Overall IELTS score of 6.0 with no band less than 6.0 (or equivalent). More information is available at www.ielts.org

Duration

3 years full-time

Current Deakin Students

To access your official course details for the year you started your degree, please visit the handbook

Course overview

Deakin’s Bachelor of Design (Architecture) is a path of discovery, exploring the creative possibilities of architectural design and its potential to make a positive impact on the built environment. Discover architectural ideas through cutting-edge content, develop your creativity and gain a practical understanding of the built environment and its relationship with the community through meaningful and sustainable design, from houses to high-rise projects.

You will gain practical skills studying real-world projects in a studio environment and develop your ability to generate, analyse and communicate your ideas. You will learn to combine creative thinking with technical necessities and develop skills that enable you to examine and shape the places we inhabit. Gain work-ready skills in computer-aided design, drawing and digital fabrication.

Want to transform your ideas into a rewarding career?

Your learning space will be second to none, with Deakin’s extensive a+b studio – an inspiring open-plan space that enables you to work collaboratively and develop your projects.

You will also have access to our purpose-built workshop, where 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC routers and traditional tools and machinery are all at hand for you to fabricate models and experiment with technology, materials and processes.

While producing design concepts, you’ll explore:

  • architectural history and philosophy
  • building science and the environment
  • construction technologies
  • computer-aided modelling
  • drawing and design process
  • model making
  • digital fabrications.

Enhancing your technical expertise, you will also collaborate with construction management students during your course through our unique integrated learning approach – just as you will in the real-world – ensuring you graduate with the practical and applied experience that employers value.

Read More

Course information

Award granted
Bachelor of Design (Architecture)
Year

2023 course information

VTAC code
1400415023 - Waterfront (Geelong), International full-fee paying place
Deakin code
S342
CRICOS code?
001835D Waterfront (Geelong)
Level
Undergraduate
Approval status

This course is approved by the University under the Higher Education Standards Framework.

Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition

The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 7.

Course structure

The course comprises a total of 24 credit points, which must include the following:

  • Nineteen (19) core units (22 credit points)
  • Two (2) credit points of elective units
  • Completion of SRA010 Safety Induction Program (0-credit point compulsory unit)
  • Completion of STP050 Academic Integrity (0-credit point compulsory unit)

Students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements. Click here for more information.

Core

Year 1 - Trimester 1

  • Art and Society
  • Architecture Communication 01: Drawing
  • Architecture Design Studio 01: Thoughtscapes
  • Building Materials Science
  • Safety Induction Program (0 credit points)
  • Academic Integrity (0 credit points)
  • Year 1 - Trimester 2

  • Architecture Communication 02: Modelling
  • Architecture Design Studio 02: Matterscapes (2 credit points)
  • Construction and Structures 1

  • Year 2 - Trimester 1

  • Utopian Ideals in the Modern World
  • Architecture Design Studio 03: Earthscapes
  • Construction and Structures 2
  • plus one elective unit (one credit point)

    Year 2 - Trimester 2

  • Austral-Asian Architecture
  • Architecture Design Studio 04: Publicscapes (2 credit points)
  • Building Environmental Studies

  • Year 3 - Trimester 1

  • Architecture Communication 03: Documentation
  • Architecture Design Studio 05: Hybridscapes
  • Building Environmental Services
  • Contemporary Architecture
  • Year 3 - Trimester 2

  • Architecture Design Studio 06: Superstudio (2 credit points)
  • Construction and Structures 3
  • plus one elective unit (one credit point)

    Electives

    Select from a range of elective units offered across many courses. In some cases you may even be able to choose elective units from a completely different discipline area (subject to meeting unit requirements).

    Intakes by location

    The availability of a course varies across locations and intakes. This means that a course offered in Trimester 1 may not be offered in the same location for Trimester 2 or 3. Check each intake for up-to-date information on when and where you can commence your studies.

    Trimester 1 - March

    • Start date: March
    • Available at:

      Waterfront (Geelong)

    Trimester 2 - July

    • Start date: July
    • Available at:

      Waterfront (Geelong)

    Deakin splits the academic year into three terms, known as trimesters. Most students usually undertake two trimesters each year (March-June, July-November).

    Additional course information

    Course duration - additional information

    Course duration may be affected by delays in completing course requirements, such as accessing or completing work placements.

    Mandatory student checks

    Any unit which contains work integrated learning, a community placement or interaction with the community may require a police check, Working with Children Check or other check.

    Workload

    You can expect to engage in a range of teaching activities each week. This could include classes, seminars, workshops, site visits and online interaction. You can refer to the individual unit details in the course structure for more information. You will also need to study and complete assessment tasks in your own time.

    Participation requirements

    Elective units may be selected that include compulsory placements, work-based training, community-based learning or collaborative research training arrangements.

    Reasonable adjustments to participation and other course requirements will be made for students with a disability. More information available at Disability support services.

    Work experience

    You’ll have the opportunity to undertake a discipline-specific industry placement as part of your course. deakin.edu.au/sebe/wil.

    Entry requirements

    Senior certificate of education

    If you are currently studying Year 12 or completed Year 12 in the previous two years and have not attempted higher education or VET/Polytechnic study since, your selection is based on the following.

    VCE Prerequisite subjects

    Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English EAL (English as an additional language) or at least 20 in English other than EAL.

    ATAR

    This course uses the ATAR as part of its selection consideration.

    Selection is competitive and meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee selection.  Our Admission Criteria and Selection Policy outlines the principles of selection.

    International equivalent requirements

    To view the international academic admission and English language requirements visit the International entry requirements page. If your course or country of origin is not listed please contact study@deakin.edu.au.

    To submit an application please visit the how to apply page.

    Higher education study

    If you have undertaken at least one unit of higher education after secondary schooling, your selection is based on the following.

    Education

    This course uses your entire academic record as part of its selection considerations.

    VCE Senior Secondary prerequisite studies

    Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English EAL (English as an additional language) or at least 20 in English other than EAL or equivalent.

    All applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Please read about other ways of satisfying the English language proficiency requirement.

    Personal statement

    If you wish your professional, work, life or community experience to be considered you are required to complete and submit a personal statement. Learn more about the personal statement.

    Selection is competitive and meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee selection.  Our Admission Criteria and Selection Policy outlines the principles of selection.

    International equivalent requirements

    To view the international academic admission and English language requirements visit the International entry requirements page. If your course or country of origin is not listed please contact study@deakin.edu.au.

    To submit an application please visit the how to apply page.

    Polytechnic study

    If you have undertaken at least one unit of Vocational Education and Training (VET) study after secondary school, your selection is based on the following.

    Education

    This course uses your secondary education and subsequent academic records as part of its selection considerations.

    VCE Senior Secondary prerequisite studies

    Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English EAL (English as an additional language) or at least 20 in English other than EAL or equivalent.

    All applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Please read about other ways of satisfying the English language proficiency requirement.

    Personal statement

    If you wish your professional, work, life or community experience to be considered you are required to complete and submit a personal statement. Learn more about the personal statement.

    Selection is competitive and meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee selection.  Our Admission Criteria and Selection Policy outlines the principles of selection.

    International equivalent requirements

    To view the international academic admission and English language requirements visit the International entry requirements page. If your course or country of origin is not listed please contact study@deakin.edu.au.

    To submit an application please visit the how to apply page.

    Work and life experience

    If you finished Year 12 more than three years ago or did not finish Year 12, your selection is based on the following.

    Education

    This course uses your entire academic record as part of its selection considerations.

    VCE Senior Secondary prerequisite studies

    Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English EAL (English as an additional language) or at least 20 in English other than EAL or equivalent.

    All applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Please read about other ways of satisfying the English language proficiency requirement.

    Personal statement

    If you wish your professional, work, life or community experience to be considered you are required to complete and submit a personal statement. Learn more about the personal statement.

    Selection is competitive and meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee selection.  Our Admission Criteria and Selection Policy outlines the principles of selection.

    International equivalent requirements

    To view the international academic admission and English language requirements visit the International entry requirements page. If your course or country of origin is not listed please contact study@deakin.edu.au.

    To submit an application please visit the how to apply page.

    Selection adjustments

    Subject adjustment

    A study score of 35 in any English, any History or any Science equals 2 aggregate points per study. A study score of 35 in one but no more than one of Art, Product Design And Technology, Studio Arts or Visual Communication Design equals 2 aggregate points per study. Overall maximum of 8 points.

    Access and equity

    Special entry access schemes (SEAS) enable Deakin to consider disadvantaged circumstances you may have experienced and the impact upon your studies. SEAS also allows us to identify if you’re from under-represented groups when making selection decisions for some courses. SEAS does not exempt you from meeting any of the course entry requirements. Learn more about Deakin’s special entry access schemes.

    Recognition of prior learning

    If you have completed previous studies which you believe may reduce the number of units you have to complete at Deakin, indicate in the appropriate section on your application that you wish to be considered for Recognition of Prior Learning. You will need to provide a certified copy of your previous course details so your credit can be determined. If you are eligible, your offer letter will then contain information about your Recognition of Prior Learning.
    Your Recognition of Prior Learning is formally approved prior to your enrolment at Deakin during the Enrolment and Orientation Program. You must bring original documents relating to your previous study so that this approval can occur.

    You can also refer to the Recognition of Prior Learning System which outlines the credit that may be granted towards a Deakin University degree.

    Fees and scholarships

    Fee information

    Estimated tuition fee - full-fee paying place

    The tuition fees you pay are determined by the course you are enrolled in.

    The 'Estimated tuition fee' is provided as a guide only based on a typical enrolment of students completing the first year of this course. The cost will vary depending on the units you choose, your study load, the length of your course and any approved Recognition of Prior Learning you have.

    Each unit you enrol in has a credit point value. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is calculated by adding together eight credit points of a typical combination of units for that course. Eight credit points is used as it represents a typical full-time enrolment load for a year.

    You can find the credit point value of each unit under the Unit Description by searching for the unit in the Handbook.

    Learn more about international student fees.

    Scholarship options

    A Deakin scholarship could help you pay for your course fees, living costs and study materials. If you've got something special to offer Deakin - or maybe you just need a bit of extra support - we've got a scholarship opportunity for you. Search or browse through our scholarships

    Apply now

    Apply through VTAC and Deakin

    International students who are currently completing an Australian Year 12 in Australia or overseas should apply through the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC), as well as directly to Deakin through StudyLink Connect – Deakin University's International Student Application Service. For information on the application process and closing dates, see the How to apply web page.

    Apply through Deakin

    All other international students apply directly to the University through StudyLink Connect - Deakin University's International Student Application Service. For information on the application process and closing dates, see the How to apply web page.

    Deakin International office or Deakin representative

    Fill out the application form and submit to a Deakin International office or take your application form to a Deakin representative for assistance

    Need more information on how to apply?

    For information on the application process and closing dates, see the How to apply webpage.
    If you’re still having problems, please contact Deakin International for assistance.

    Careers

    Career outcomes

    Deakin architecture graduates work across the globe, from the UK, Berlin and Oslo to China, Dubai and the US. Our graduates have pursued roles in the built environment field including:

    • 3D Architectural Modeller
    • Architectural Consultant or Designer
    • Design Coordinator

    Graduates who wish to pursue a career as a registered Architect can continue onto further studies in Deakin’s Master of Architecture. Once you have completed postgraduate studies and gained registration to practice, you can pursue a career as a practising Architect and work in private architectural firms, government organisations, property development, or other building and design fields.

     

    Professional recognition

    Undergoing regular and rigorous review processes carried out by external professional bodies means that this course maintains its quality and industry relevance.

    This course also forms step one of a five year program comprising the three year Bachelor of Design (Architecture) followed by the two year Master of Architecture.

    When the five year program has been successfully completed you have an accredited academic qualification and on your way to becoming a registered architect with the ARVB Architects Registration Board of Victoria.

    Validated and recognised by the Board of Architects Malaysia (Lembaga Arkitek Malaysia) this course is included on their List of Recognised Architectural Programmes.

    Course learning outcomes

    Deakin's graduate learning outcomes describe the knowledge and capabilities graduates can demonstrate at the completion of their course. These outcomes mean that regardless of the Deakin course you undertake, you can rest assured your degree will teach you the skills and professional attributes that employers value. They'll set you up to learn and work effectively in the future.

    Deakin Graduate Learning Outcomes

    Course Learning Outcomes

    Discipline-specific knowledge and capabilities

    Synthesise knowledge of architecture history, theory, technology and practice to design, develop and manage architecture projects, demonstrating initiative and judgement for professional practice.  Apply technical and theoretical knowledge of architectural design to propose diverse, authentic, alternative, and well-rounded responses that are conceptually and physically sustainable to problems in the contemporary built environment. Integrate the knowledge of language of architecture, its meanings, capacities and implications to demonstrate ability and responsibility as reflective practitioners, in making decisions to define the human landscape.

    Communication

    Communicate clearly, professionally and responsibly in a variety of contexts using oral, visual, digital, graphic and interpersonal communication modes to inform, motivate and persuade specialist and non-specialist audiences about architectural ideas and designs.  Imagine, conceive and represent ideas using the language of architecture, its codes and conventions to reflect on possibilities, the implications of hypothetical designs and its applications.

    Digital literacy

    Apply knowledge of relevant technological tools, methodologies and techniques to locate, collect, analyse, interpret and synthesise complex information.Use architecture theory and practice to analyse, evaluate, produce and disseminate design responses using techniques and technology ethically and responsibly in a digital world.

    Critical thinking

    Use critical thinking to analyse and provide a rational, reflective and socially responsible response to architectural problems at different scales and complexities in a variety of contexts.  Examine causes and consequences of different morphologies to appreciate their capacities and opportunities in order to reproduce, manipulate, and identify conventional and alternative solutions to architectural problems.

    Problem solving

    Investigate and Identify ill-defined real world environmental, cultural, physical and social architectural problems, explain its significance, causes and consequences, and use a methodical approach to formulate a solution.  Make appropriate choices to solve problems in complex and contradictory situations based on knowledge of social, economic, environmental and cultural aspects of architectural design to evolve human landscape.

    Self-management

    Work independently and collaboratively to produce architectural designs and responses in an ethical, responsible and professional manner.  Use initiative and judgement to reflect on knowledge and skills, to demonstrate autonomy and capacity to identify opportunities for improving practice.

    Teamwork

    Work as a team to analyse and evaluate complex problems, and share critical, analytical and creative approaches to select best responses to architectural problems. 

    Global citizenship

    Integrate subjective and objective stakeholder perspectives in the process of formulating architectural and design responses taking into account economic, cultural, social and ethical values inherent in human landscape.  Engage with global trends in contemporary architectural design and urbanism in order to recognise cultural diversity, the need for equity in outcomes and implement high ethical and professional standards.

    Approved by Faculty Board 27 June 2019