Two bachelor of design architecture / master of architecture students work together on campus.

International

Bachelor of Design (Architecture)/Master of Architecture

Top 200 worldwide for architecture and built environment

I am an international student ?International students are students who intend to study, or are currently studying, in Australia and are temporary residents of Australia, permanent residents of New Zealand, or residents or citizens of any other country.
Domestic International
I am an international student ?International students are students who intend to study, or are currently studying, in Australia and are temporary residents of Australia, permanent residents of New Zealand, or residents or citizens of any other country.
Domestic International
English requirements 6 IELTS overall score of 6 (with no band score less than 6.0) or equivalent View entry requirements
Academic requirements Course-specific academic requirements apply.
Campus
  • Waterfront
Duration 5 years full-time
Intakes Trimesters 1, 2 View how to apply
Fees $43,800 for 1 yr full-time AUD View fees and scholarships

Top 200 worldwide for architecture and built environment

Accredited academic qualification

Deakin sets the standard for employability

Why choose Deakin

Nurture your creativity through Deakin's Bachelor of Design (Architecture)/Master of Architecture. Develop a practical understanding of the built environment and its relationship with the community through meaningful and sustainable design. This five-year degree provides a pathway for those interested in pursuing architectural professional registration. Gain practical skills in a studio environment and develop your ability to communicate your design ideas under the guidance of passionate staff.

From the first year, and throughout your studies, you will explore innovative design in response to real-world scenarios and present your ideas for consideration by registered architects. This practical, applied and industry-connected approach to learning ensures you receive feedback and insight into your work from professional practitioners with local and global experience.

  • Accredited pathway to professional practice

    Graduate with an accredited Australian qualification, providing the foundation to pursue architect registration and a career in architecture.

  • Exclusive year-long architectural design thesis

    Be part of Victoria’s only architecture school with an embedded design thesis, where you will develop and complete your own independent project under expert guidance.

  • Global career opportunities

    Join graduates working across the UK, Berlin, Oslo, China, Dubai and the USA, supported by Deakin’s connection to the UNESCO Creative Cities Network.

  • World-class studios

    Bring your projects to life in our open-plan A+B studio and purpose-built workshop, using industry-grade 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC routers and traditional tools.

Connected to industry

Deakin’s strong industry connections help shape your learning. Build practical experience in real workplace contexts through work-integrated learning, mentoring and networking opportunities. Industry advisory boards also help shape our degrees, which means what you study is current, relevant and aligned to what your future employers need.

Deakin international students walk through Burwood Campus.

Proven employability

Deakin graduates are highly valued by employers. Gain a degree you will value as much as your future career. #1 university in Melbourne for international student graduate employment.

Deakin puts employability first

Career outcomes

Develop the creative, technical and professional skills to shape meaningful and sustainable spaces. Graduate with an accredited architecture qualification and advanced design experience, preparing you to pursue professional registration and a career across architecture and the built environment.

Architectural designer

Develop creative and practical design solutions for buildings and spaces. Produce concepts, drawings and digital models while considering functionality, sustainability, materials and the needs of people and communities.

  • $93k

    Typical salary in Australia

  • 4.1/5

    Job satisfaction in Australia

Architect

Design buildings and spaces that balance creativity, functionality and sustainability. Develop concepts and detailed plans, collaborate with clients and construction professionals, and guide projects from initial design through to completion.

  • $100k

    Typical salary in Australia

  • 3.6/5

    Job satisfaction in Australia

Other jobs

  • 3D architectural modeller
  • Design coordinator
  • Architectural consultant
  • Built environment professional
  • Property development roles

FAQs

Find answers to the most common questions about this course.

Deakin's campuses in Melbourne, Geelong and Warrnambool are set in vibrant, multicultural communities where it is easy to connect and feel at home. As the #1 university in Australia for international student happiness and student satisfaction, you will be supported at every step of your journey. You can join clubs and societies through the Deakin University Student Association (DUSA), attend social events, go on trips and live on campus to meet people from around the world. Each campus has fitness centres, cafes and 24-hour security, as well as prayer rooms and multifaith chaplains.

Deakin offers a range of merit-based scholarships that can reduce your tuition fees by 20%, 25%, 50% or 100% for the duration of your degree. Eligibility varies by scholarship and the degree you choose, but you will automatically be considered for most scholarships when you apply to Deakin. Use the Find a scholarship tool and filter by 'citizenship' to see what is available to you, or explore Australia Awards scholarships if you are from an eligible country.

As an international student at Deakin, you can work part time according to the conditions of your visa. On a Student Visa (Subclass 500), you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during trimesters. When you are on a trimester break you can work as much as you want. Compulsory work experience that forms part of your degree does not count toward this limit. Find part-time roles and internships through DeakinTALENT and learn more about working in Australia.

Most students studying full time at Deakin need a Student Visa (Subclass 500). You can apply for this visa after you accept your offer and receive your electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). To apply, you will need a valid passport, your CoE, proof of Overseas Student Health Cover and any other documents required by the Department of Home Affairs. Apply as early as possible, but do not book travel until your visa has been granted. Find out more about student visas.

Australia is widely regarded as one of the safest and most welcoming countries in the world for students, with strong legal protections, reliable public services and a multicultural community. In fact, Melbourne is ranked the #4 student city in the world! At Deakin, you will be part of a supportive community, with 24/7 help, dedicated campus security and practical tools to help you feel safe, confident and connected. Deakin’s SafeZone app also connects you directly to campus security and support services if you ever need help. Find out more about studying in Australia.

Deakin offers a wide range of support to help you settle in and succeed throughout your studies – we are ranked the #1 university in Melbourne for student support. You can access 1:1 study support, English language support, career planning help, disability services and free counselling, as well as financial assistance if you need it. On campus, the SafeZone app and 24/7 security services mean help is always within reach. You can explore the full range of support services for international students or start an online chat with a student ambassador before you arrive.

To enrol in an undergraduate degree at Deakin, many degrees require a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 (or equivalent). Some degrees require higher scores so check the entry requirements tab on the degree page for details. You may also meet the requirement through recent secondary or university study completed in English, or by demonstrating five or more years of living and working in an English-speaking country. Eligibility is assessed on a case-by-case basis. If you do not yet meet the requirement, the Deakin University English Language Institute (DUELI) offers pathway programs to help develop your English reading, writing, listening and speaking skills. Completion of DUELI’s English for Academic Purposes can give you the minimum English language requirements for most Deakin degrees.

Deakin is the #1 university in Melbourne for international student graduate employment. Our degrees are developed with industry insight, so you will gain career-ready skills from the beginning. Each Deakin student can access work-integrated learning through opportunities including placements, internships and projects with well-known industry partners. Our dedicated international student career support program helps you learn about the Australian workforce, make connections and build your network through placements. You will get support with your resume, help looking for an internship or a job after graduation and even advice about your career options overseas.

There is more than one way to study at Deakin. If you do not meet the academic requirements, Deakin College offers a guaranteed pathway to Deakin with small, supportive classes on campus. If you meet the academic requirements but not the English requirements, you can enrol in a Deakin University English Language Institute (DUELI) English pathway program and progress to your chosen Deakin degree upon successful completion. Deakin also has formal pathway agreements with partner institutions in countries like China, India, Vietnam, Sri Lanka and the United States, so you can start your studies locally before transferring to Australia to complete your degree.

*Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. Learn more about our achievements on our University rankings page, or explore our sources page for supporting references.

What will I study in the Bachelor of Design (Architecture)/Master of Architecture?

This five-year double degree takes you from foundational design ideas to advanced architectural practice. You will build your skills progressively across undergraduate and postgraduate study, learning to design responsibly in real workplace contexts, and how to communicate your ideas clearly.

Foundations of architectural thinking

Design studio fundamentals

Work in hands-on studio classes to explore spatial ideas through drawing, modelling and visual communication. Learn to develop and present a concept.

Architecture in context

Study the history and theory of architecture and art to see how culture, beliefs and environment influence the spaces we create.

How buildings come together

Learn basic building materials, simple structures and residential construction. Develop safe practices in studios and workshops.

This learning journey is intended as a guide only. Individual study journeys may vary.

Course structure

To complete the Bachelor of Design (Architecture)/Master of Architecture, you must pass 40 credit points.

Most units are equal to one credit point. As a full-time student you will study four credit points per trimester and usually undertake two trimesters per year.

Note:

To progress into the Master of Architecture level of studies from undergraduate architecture, students must have completed all 24 credit points of the undergraduate course and also achieve a Weighted Average Mark (WAM) of 65. Students achieving a WAM between 55 and 64 have the opportunity to submit a portfolio of relevant work and personal statement for consideration to potentially progress into the master level of studies. A WAM of less than 55 results in an alternative exit from D306 Bachelor of Design (Architecture)/Master of Architecture with the award: S342 Bachelor of Design (Architecture).

Are you a current student? For course information that applies to the year you started your degree, visit the handbook.

24
Bachelor of Design (Architecture) credit points
+
16
Master of Architecture credit points
=
40
Total

All students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements

Units

You are required to complete 18 core units (these are essential units for this degree).

In your first trimester you must also complete two 0-credit point units which are compulsory for this degree.

Year 1 - Trimester 1

Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0 credit points)
Art and Society
Architecture Design Studio 01: Thoughtscapes (2 credit points)
Building Materials Science
Safety Induction Program (0 credit points)

Year 1 - Trimester 2

Building Environmental Studies
Architecture Design Studio 02: Matterscapes (2 credit points)
Construction and Structures 1

Year 2 - Trimester 1

Making the Modern World
Architecture Design Studio 03: Earthscapes
Construction and Structures 2

Plus one open elective unit (one credit point)

Year 2 - Trimester 2

Austral-Asian Architecture
Architecture Design Studio 04: Publicscapes (2 credit points)
Architecture Communication 02: Modelling

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 (capstone, 2 credit points)
Construction and Structures 3

Plus one open elective unit (one credit point)

Professional recognition

The combined degree Bachelor of Design (Architecture)/Master of Architecture is an AACA (Architects Accreditation Council of Australia) accredited academic qualification and sets you on the way to becoming a registered architect via any state registration board, such as the ARBV Architects Registration Board of Victoria.

Deakin student smiling and holding a bag, dressed in business wear.

What to expect while studying

The learning experiences and assessment activities within this course require students to engage with a number of production methods, such as drawing, large format printing, model making, and digital fabrication (laser cutting + 3D printing). Students will be required to purchase minor equipment such as drawing media, paperstock, sketchbooks, and model making tools, however many of these will be usable within different units. As such, there might be a higher upfront cost as students enter in the course. Each unit will outline the specific requirements at the commencement of the unit. Where possible, students are encouraged to reuse, recycle or think creatively about model materials. The indicative cost of this equipment and material (over time) can vary depending on quality or execution, but can be suggested in the range of $750-$1500 over the course duration.

Students are also recommended to have access to a personal computer (laptop or desktop) in order to engage digital communications methods (drawing, CAD and presentations). Advice on this is presented to students in first year, so it is not imperative to have this before commencing the course as Deakin has dedicated Computer Labs to get started with. Where possible, all required software (Autodesk, Adobe) is provided to students under free academic licencing and does not require additional cost.

You may be able to study available units in the optional third trimester to fast-track your degree, however your course duration may be extended if there are delays in meeting course requirements, such as completing a placement.

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.

You can expect to engage in a range of teaching activities each week. This could include lectures, 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.

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

You’ll have the opportunity to undertake a discipline-specific industry placement as part of your course. Explore the SEBE WIL program.

At Deakin, we're committed to ensuring an inclusive environment that supports all students to belong, thrive and succeed. We work closely with students, where needed, to identify potential barriers to participation and where possible, provide tailored support so students can engage with learning and assessment activities.

If you are neurodivergent, have a disability, health condition or mental health condition that may impact your study or participation in university life, and want to know how Deakin could support you, contact our Domestic students (opens in a new window) or International students (opens in a new window) or Disability Resource Centre (opens email client) teams for a collaborative and confidential discussion. This discussion is to support you to make plans for your studies and future career and will not have any bearing on your application to the course.

When can I start?

When you study depends on your course, location and available intakes. Check the table to see when you can start and how study is offered throughout the year.

Explore important dates

Campus
Trimester 1
Trimester 2
Trimester 3
WaterfrontGeelong

Your course learning outcomes describe the knowledge, skills and capabilities you’ll develop and be able to demonstrate by the time you graduate. Built into your course through your units and assessments, they provide a clear picture of what you’ll be equipped to know, understand and do – preparing you to apply your learning with confidence beyond university.

Course Learning Outcomes
Bachelor of Design (Architecture) (S342)
Course Learning Outcomes
Master of Architecture (S700)

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.

Create an architectural design through the exercise of knowledge, imagination and judgement in the context of economic, social, cultural and environmental responsibility.

Plan and execute a substantial research project to show capacity for specialised knowledge in architectural contexts and thereby demonstrate the ability to continue professional development and/or scholarship.

Use initiative to integrate well developed knowledge of architectural history, theory, technology and practice to design, develop and manage architecture projects from project brief to architectural resolution and thereby demonstrate professionalism as an architectural graduate.

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.

Communicate clearly, professionally and responsibly in a variety of interpersonal contexts using oral, written and visual communication modes to inform, motivate and persuade specialist and non specialist audiences about architectural ideas, decisions and predicted built outcomes.

Imagine, conceive and represent ideas using the language of architecture, its codes and conventions to reflect on possibilities, and progress and resolve solutions within a design process.

Demonstrate the capacity to listen, learn and engage with a variety of participants and contributing influences in architectural projects to mediate and collaboratively resolve issues and negotiate design complexity.

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.

Apply well-developed research, ideation and technical information literacy skills to independently locate, interpret and evaluate information content in a digital world.

Disseminate creative and logical proposals using appropriate digital technologies relevant to architecture practice.

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 to reproduce, manipulate, and identify conventional and alternative solutions to architectural problems.

Selectively use linear, critical, logical and/or lateral mechanisms to analyse different forms of information; manipulate and transform information to propose possible solutions and thereby demonstrate the capacity for reflection in action for professional practice in architecture.

Use reflection and judgement supported by a body of knowledge in order to efficiently formulate a strategy or argument appropriate to a theoretical, contextual, creative and/or technical architectural situation.

Apply independent thought and capacity for analysis and synthesis of a particular area of discipline knowledge through coherent and focussed research practice.

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.

Effectively research and identify theoretical, cultural, social, technical and environmental architectural problems to establish a sound basis for project inception in familiar and unfamiliar contexts.

Use a well-developed body of knowledge to justify, argue and persuade the significance, causes and consequences of architectural problems, and use a methodical approach to formulate potential solutions.

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.

Accumulate and document specialist knowledge of architecture theories, processes and practice using the frameworks of methodical research, creative activity and capacity for reflection on action to demonstrate responsibility for professional learning.

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

Apply interpersonal skills to interact contribute and collaborate in team learning activities and to enhance project potential through shared individual and collective knowledge and creative capacity to optimise complex problem resolution.

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

Formulate architectural responses through concern for economic, cultural, social and ethical values inherent in human landscape while consciously integrating quantitative and qualitative perspectives.

Engage with global traditions and current trends in architectural practice in order to appreciate diversity, seek equity in outcomes and adopt ethical and professional standards.

Award granted

Bachelor of Design (Architecture)/Master of Architecture

Year

2027 course information

Deakin code
D306
CRICOS code?Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students
111440H Waterfront (Geelong)
Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition

The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 7/9

Your academic history, work and life experience, and individual circumstances will be considered. Meeting the minimum academic and English language requirements does not guarantee admission, but alternative pathways may be available.

Entry requirements

Select your academic background

If you're currently studying Year 12, or completed Year 12 in the last two years, you will need to meet all the following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:

Year 12 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

  • Senior Secondary Certificate of Education with an unadjusted ATAR of at least 50 or equivalent

To progress into the Master of Architecture level of studies from undergraduate architecture, students must achieve a Weighted Average Mark (WAM) of 65. Students achieving a WAM between 55 and 64 have the opportunity to submit a portfolio of relevant work and personal statement for consideration to potentially progress into the masters level of studies. Students cannot progress to the postgraduate level of study without completing all 24 credit points at undergraduate level. Students who do not meet the requirements and have a WAM of less than 55 will exit with the award S342 Bachelor of Design (Architecture).

If you have undertaken higher education studies after secondary schooling, you will need to meet all the following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:

  • successful completion of at least two bachelor level or above units (AQF Level 7 or equivalent)

To progress into the Master of Architecture level of studies from undergraduate architecture, students must achieve a Weighted Average Mark (WAM) of 65. Students achieving a WAM between 55 and 64 have the opportunity to submit a portfolio of relevant work and personal statement for consideration to potentially progress into the master level of studies. Students cannot progress to the postgraduate level of study without completing all 24 credit points at undergraduate level. Students who do not meet the requirements and have a WAM of less than 55 will exit with the award S342 Bachelor of Design (Architecture).

If you have undertaken any Vocational Education and Training (VET) study after secondary school, you will need to meet at least one of following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:

  • completion of a certificate IV or higher in a related discipline
  • completion of a diploma or higher in any discipline
  • at least 50% completion of a diploma or higher in a related discipline

To progress into the Master of Architecture level of studies from undergraduate architecture, students must achieve a Weighted Average Mark (WAM) of 65. Students achieving a WAM between 55 and 64 have the opportunity to submit a portfolio of relevant work and personal statement for consideration to potentially progress into the master level of studies. Students cannot progress to the postgraduate level of study without completing all 24 credit points at undergraduate level. Students who do not meet the requirements and have a WAM of less than 55 will exit with the award S342 Bachelor of Design (Architecture).

If you finished Year 12 more than three years ago, or did not finish Year 12, and haven't undertaken any further study, you may be considered for admission to this degree based on your work, volunteer and/or life experience.

Submit a personal statement outlining your motivation to study, previous education and employment history, and how this course can assist your career aspirations or progression. Think of it as a job application cover letter - it should be relevant and demonstrate your commitment and interest in this course or study area.

To progress into the Master of Architecture level of studies from undergraduate architecture, students must achieve a Weighted Average Mark (WAM) of 65. Students achieving a WAM between 55 and 64 have the opportunity to submit a portfolio of relevant work and personal statement for consideration to potentially progress into the master level of studies. Students cannot progress to the postgraduate level of study without completing all 24 credit points at undergraduate level. Students who do not meet the requirements and have a WAM of less than 55 will exit with the award S342 Bachelor of Design (Architecture).

English language requirements

To meet the English language proficiency requirements of this course, you will need to demonstrate at least one of the following:

  • Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) English Units 3 and 4: Study score of 25 in English as an Additional Language (EAL) or 20 in any other English
  • IELTS overall score of 6 (with no band score less than 6.0) or equivalent
  • other evidence of English language proficiency (learn more about other ways to satisfy the requirements)

Selection adjustment

Access and equity

Equity schemes and scholarships, formerly known as Special Entry Access Schemes (SEAS), enable Deakin to consider any disadvantaged circumstances you may have experienced and how these have impacted your studies. Equity schemes help us identify whether you are from an under-represented group when making selection decisions for certain courses. It's important to note that participation in an equity scheme does not exempt you from meeting the standard course entry requirements. Learn more about Deakin's equity schemes and scholarships.

Admissions information

Learn more about Deakin courses and how we compare to other universities when it comes to the quality of our teaching and learning. We're also committed to admissions transparency. Read about our first intake of 2026 students (PDF, 879KB) – their average ATARs, whether they had any previous higher education experience and more.

Not sure if you can get into Deakin? Discover the different entry pathways we offer and study options available to you, no matter your ATAR or education history.

Fees

Estimated tuition fee

$43,800

for 1 yr full-time AUD

The estimated tuition fee above is based on a typical first-year full-time enrolment of 8 credit points and is provided as a guide only. Your tuition fees are determined by your course and unit enrolment. Your tuition fees will vary depending on your study load, the course duration, and any approved recognition of prior learning.

Learn more about tuition fees for international students.

Two Deakin students walking outside.

Scholarships

Deakin scholarships recognise your hard work and achievements. Our support can ease the financial pressure of studying in Australia so you stay focused on your success. Numbers are limited, so apply early for the best chance.

Browse scholarships

Apply now

Apply directly to Deakin

Applications can be made directly to the University through StudyLink Connect - Deakin University's International Student Application Service.

We recommend engaging with a Deakin Authorised Agent who can assist you with the process and submit the application.

Apply through StudyLink Connect

Apply through VTAC

If you are an international student completing an Australian Year 12 in Australia or overseas, you must submit an application through the Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC). In addition, you may also apply directly to Deakin through StudyLink Connect - Deakin University's international student application service.

Apply through VTAC

Recognition of prior learning

We value your previous study and experience. Recognition of prior learning enables you to get credit for what you've already achieved. When you apply, we'll consider your previous study and experience for recognition of prior learning.