Top 1% worldwide for architecture and built environment*
This course is accredited by the AIA, ARBV and the AACA
#1 Victorian university for graduate employment^
Key facts
Duration
Locations
Key dates
Direct applications to Deakin for Trimester 2 2023 close 25 June 2023
Current Deakin Students
To access your official course details for the year you started your degree, please visit the handbook
Course overview
Expand your knowledge in architecture, design and innovative strategies through creativity. You will develop sought-after skills through exploration of critical architectural studies, environmental resiliency, sustainable design, technological advancement and social and theoretical issues, preparing you for contemporary professional practice. You will have access to our impressive a+b studio – an inspiring open plan space where you can work collaboratively and develop your projects.
Throughout this course you will undertake studies of ethical, evaluative and research frameworks which underpin the field of architecture. You will also fabricate models in our state-of-the-art architecture workshop and experiment with technology, materials and processes. The workshop is fully equipped with 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC routers and traditional tools and machinery.
Want to gain advanced practical skills through real-world projects?
During your studies you will work closely with construction management students, creating a multidisciplinary learning experience that stands out to potential employers. As a graduate you may find employment in private architectural practices, government organisations and private companies in property development, building and design.
The Master of Architecture is an important step towards becoming a registered architect. After you graduate, you will need to complete two years of work experience under the supervision of a registered architect. Then you will be eligible to present for registration with the Architects Registration Board of Victoria and the Australian Institute of Architects.
Based in Geelong, you’ll be immersed in a unique environment to explore urban and regional issues at multiple scales of projects, while learning how to effectively connect the city to regional Victoria. Plus, through your learning experiences and research, you’ll have opportunities to examine community sustainability and resiliency through design-based investigations.
Read MoreCourse information
- Award granted
- Master of Architecture
- Year
2023 course information
- Deakin code
- S700
- CRICOS code?
- 059382E Waterfront (Geelong)
- Level
- Higher Degree Coursework (Masters and Doctorates)
- 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 9.
Course structure
To complete the Master of Architecture, students must attain 12 or 16 credit points, depending on prior experience, which must include the following. Most students choose to study 4 units per trimester, and usually undertake two trimesters each year.
The 16 credit points include:
- 10 core units (totalling 13 credit points)
- 3 course electives (you can choose which ones to study from the available list or from any level 7 SR coded unit) (totalling 3 credit points)
- Completion of SRA710 Safety Induction Program (0-credit point compulsory unit)
- Completion of STP050 Academic Integrity (0-credit point compulsory unit)
The 12* credit points include:
- 7 core units (totalling 10 credit points)
- 2 course electives (you can choose which ones to study from the available list or from any level 7 SR coded unit) (totalling 2 credit points)
- Completion of SRA710 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.
*D364 Articulating students only
Core
16 credit point structure
Year 1 - Trimester 1
Year 1 - Trimester 2
1 Level 7 SR coded elective (1 credit point)
Year 2 - Trimester 1
1 Level 7 SR coded elective (1 credit point)
Year 2 - Trimester 2
1 Level 7 SR coded elective (1 credit point)
^ Students entering the 12 credit point course structure are exempt from SRD753, SRC724 and SRA743, plus 1 course elective.
12 credit point structure (D364 Articulating students only)
Year 1 - Trimester 1
Year 1 - Trimester 2
1 Level 7 SR coded elective (1 credit point)
Year 2 - Trimester 1
1 Level 7 SR coded elective (1 credit point)
Course Elective units:
Three (3) level 7 electives (3 credit points) – for students entering the 16 credit point course structure
OR
Two (2) level 7 electives (2 credit points) – for students entering the 12 credit point course structure
Students may select elective units from the list below or from any level 7 SR coded unit [An alternative elective may be undertaken and will require approval by the S700 Master of Architecture Course Director.]
* Students intending to apply for entry into Higher Degree by Research may be required to completed SRD755 Architecture Research: Masterclass Preparation and SRR711 Thesis (2cp).
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)
Additional course information
Domestic students enrolled in certain postgraduate coursework programs may be eligible for student payment through Youth Allowance and Austudy.
Further information can be found at Deakin’s Current Students website.
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 participate 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.
Need help?
Ask a question about studying at Deakin
Entry requirements
Entry information
2 years full time (4 years part time) – 16 credit points:
- Bachelor degree in architecture with a WAM (or equivalent average grade indicator) of 65 or higher OR
- Bachelor degree in architecture with a WAM (or equivalent average grade indicator) between 55 and 64, AND portfolio of relevant work and personal statement OR
- Evidence of academic capability judged to be equivalent.
1.5 years full time (3 years part time) – 12 credit points:
- D364 Bachelor of Design (Architecture)/Bachelor of Construction Management (Honours) with a WAM (or equivalent average grade indicator) of 65 or higher OR
- D364 Bachelor of Design (Architecture)/Bachelor of Construction Management (Honours) with a WAM (or equivalent average grade indicator) between 55 and 64, AND portfolio of relevant work and personal statement OR
- Evidence of academic capability judged to be equivalent.
Deakin University offers admission to postgraduate courses through a number of Admission categories.
All applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements.
Please note that meeting the minimum admission requirements does not guarantee selection, which is based on merit, likelihood of success and availability of places in the course.
For more information on the Admission Criteria and Selection (Higher Education Courses) Policy visit the Deakin Policy Library
Recognition of prior learning
The University aims to provide students with as much credit as possible for approved prior study or informal learning which exceeds the normal entrance requirements for the course and is within the constraints of the course regulations. Students are required to complete a minimum of one-third of the course at Deakin University, or four credit points, whichever is the greater. In the case of certificates, including graduate certificates, a minimum of two credit points within the course must be completed at Deakin.
You can also refer to the Recognition of Prior Learning System which outlines the credit that may be granted towards a Deakin University degree and how to apply for credit.
Recognition of Prior Learning applicants must comply with the Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment rule for admission and selection for postgraduate award (coursework) courses.
Fees and scholarships
Fee information
Learn more about fees and your options for paying.
The available fee places for this course are detailed above.
Tuition fees are determined by your enrolment:
- If you are offered a full fee paying place, your tuition fees are calculated based on your course.
- If you are offered a Commonwealth supported place, your tuition fees are calculated depending on the units you choose. Not all courses at Deakin have Commonwealth supported places available.
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.
One year full-time study load is typically represented by eight credit points of study. 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 your course.
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 fees and available payment options.
FEE-HELP calculator
What is FEE-HELP?
FEE-HELP loans cover up to 100% of tuition fees for eligible students. By taking out a FEE-HELP loan, the government pays your tuition fees directly to Deakin, and the balance is repaid from your employment income - but only once you're earning over $48,361.
Please note: fees shown by the calculator are indicative only and based on 2023 rates. Actual fees may vary. We advise confirming fees with Prospective Student Enquiries prior to enrolment.
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- $* is the estimated full cost for a Master of Architecture (16 credit points), based on the 2023 fees.
- is the annual FEE-HELP payment, based on your current salary
- of your current salary be spent on FEE-HELP
*Disclaimer
Deakin University (Deakin):
- gives no warranty and accepts no responsibility for the currency, accuracy or the completeness of the information provided;
- advises users that no reliance should be placed upon on the information provided, and;
- instructs users that they should confirm the actual course fee with Prospective Student Enquiries prior to enrolment.
This tool provides indicative information about the fees that will be payable in respect of courses and subjects offered to prospective students domiciled in Australia during the periods indicated.
Please note that the fees shown by the calculator are indicative only and actual fees may vary. Users are advised to confirm the actual course fee with Prospective Student Enquiries prior to enrolment.
The estimated course fee is based on the tuition fee costs applicable to a domestic full time student commencing the course in Trimester 1 and studying full time for the duration of the course but:
- does not include non-tuition costs that may apply, such as Student Services and Amenities Fees (SSAF);
- does not take into account any scholarships or bursaries awarded to the student (including the 10% Deakin alumni discount);
- assumes the maximum number of units that need to be successfully completed actual number completed may be reduced if recognition of prior learning is granted;
- assumes that no exceptional, or non-typical, circumstances apply to the proposed course of study;
- assumes that the options that the user selects are appropriate for the course of study that they intend to undertake;
- where fees are estimated for future years those fee will be subject to annual increases in accordance with increases in the cost of course delivery.
Scholarship options
A Deakin scholarship might change your life. If you've got something special to offer Deakin – or you just need the financial help to get you here – we may have a scholarship opportunity for you.
Postgraduate bursary
If you’re a Deakin alumnus commencing a postgraduate award course, you may be eligible to receive a 10% reduction per unit on your enrolment fees.
Apply now
Applications can be made directly to the University through the Deakin Application Portal. For information on the application process and closing dates, see the how to apply web page. Please note that closing dates may vary for individual courses.
For more information on the application process and closing dates, see the How to apply webpage. If you're still having problems, please contact us for assistance.
Entry pathways
Further study options
Students who have completed the Master of Architecture may continue on to undertake Higher Degree by Research study.
Alternative exits
- Graduate Certificate of Architectural Design (S541)
Contact information
Our friendly advisers are available to speak to you one-on-one about your study options, support services and how we can help you further your career.
- Call us: 1800 693 888 Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm
- Live Chat: Mon–Thurs, 8am–7pm, Fri 8am–5pm
- Submit an online enquiry
- Help hub find common and trending questions and answers
Careers
Career outcomes
Graduates will be required to complete an additional two years of work experience under the supervision of a registered architect in order to present for registration with the Architects Registration Board of Victoria (ARBV), Australian Institute of Architects (AIA) and the Architects Accreditation Council of Australia.
Graduates can then pursue a career as a practising architect and work in a private architectural practice, government organisations, property development or other building and design fields.
Professional recognition
This course is accredited (within Australia) by the Australian Institute of Architects, the Architects Registration Board of Victoria and the Architects Accreditation Council of Australia.
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 | 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. |
| Communication | 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. |
| Digital literacy | 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. |
| Critical thinking | 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. |
| Problem solving | 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. |
| Self-management | 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. |
| Teamwork | 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. |
| Global citizenship | 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. |
Approved by Faculty Board 27 June 2019
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Footnotes
*QS World University Rankings by Subject 2022
^Graduate Outcomes Survey 2022, Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching (QILT), based on overall employment for undergraduate students