Key facts
Duration
2 years full-time or part-time equivalent
Locations
Course overview
Deepen your knowledge on a chosen topic within the field of architecture through independent, sustained and academically supervised research. Undertake a research project in architecture and develop advanced skills in critical thinking, analysis and research methodologies under the supervision of our internationally recognised research staff.
The School of Architecture and Built Environment specialises in critical architectural futures and the integration of current cultural studies, environmental resiliency, sustainable design, technological advancement and social and theoretical issues. You can choose topics from areas including architectural history and theory, architectural design and practice, architectural pedagogy, environmental building science, professional practice and digital design.
Although the focus of the degree is on research, students are also required to complete a minimum of one unit of coursework.
To qualify for a Master by Research, you must demonstrate an advanced and integrated understanding of your chosen research topic. This is completed in the form of a thesis of up to 50,000 words in length which will be assessed by an external examination. When applying, contact the School of Architecture and Built Environment for guidance on developing research proposals.
Current Deakin students
To access your official course details for the year you started your degree, please visit the handbook
- Award granted
- Master of Architecture (Research)
- Year
2026 course information
- Deakin code
- S800
- CRICOS code?Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students
- 070375M Waterfront (Geelong)
- Level
- Higher Degree Research
- Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition
The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 9
World-leading experts
Achieve your research aspirations and be inspired by the best researchers in your field. Connect with a dedicated research supervisor who will guide you through every stage of your degree.
Course duration
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.
Participation requirements
Reasonable adjustments to participation and other course requirements will be made for students with a disability. More information available at Disability support services.
Flexible course delivery
Deakin’s blend of online and on-campus learning means you can balance work, study and personal development. Achieve work-life balance – study with Deakin's dedicated support and flexible learning options.
Entry requirements
Selection is based on a holistic consideration of your academic merit, work experience, likelihood of success, availability of places, participation requirements, regulatory requirements, and individual circumstances. You will need to meet the minimum academic and English language proficiency requirements or higher to be considered for selection, but this does not guarantee admission.
A combination of qualifications and experience may be deemed equivalent to minimum academic requirements.
To be considered for selection into this degree you are required to have completed:
- a research project including a thesis which is equivalent to at least 25% of a year’s full-time study at Level 8 of the Australian Qualifications Framework, with achievement of a grade for the project equivalent to a Deakin grade of 65% or equivalent
To meet the English language proficiency requirements of this course, you will need to demonstrate at least one of the following:
- bachelor degree from a recognised English-speaking country
- IELTS overall score of 6.5 (with no band score less than 6.0) in each component of test
- other evidence of English language proficiency (learn more about other ways to satisfy the requirements
Learn more about Deakin courses and how we compare to other universities when it comes to the quality of our teaching and learning.
Not sure if you can get into Deakin postgraduate study? Postgraduate study doesn’t have to be a balancing act; we provide flexible course entry and exit options based on your desired career outcomes and the time you are able to commit to your study.
Scholarship options
We want to help you excel at Deakin. Our scholarships recognise your dedication and achievements, providing financial support that can ease the cost of living and studying. With less pressure, you’ll have more freedom to focus on what matters most – your education and future success.
Apply now
Apply directly to Deakin
Get all the information you need to successfully apply for a Deakin research degree or PhD, including key dates, entry requirements, supporting documents and finding a research supervisor. We’re here to support you through the process.
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 | Demonstrate an advanced and integrated understanding of a complex body of knowledge in one or more discipline areas by generating substantial contribution to knowledge through the use of appropriate research principles and methods. |
| Communication | Demonstrate autonomy, expert judgement, adaptability, initiative, resilience and responsibility as a practitioner or learner. |
| Digital literacy | Demonstrate an advanced and integrated understanding of a complex body of knowledge in one or more discipline areas by generating substantial contribution to knowledge through the use of appropriate research principles and methods |
| Critical thinking | Apply critical analysis and reflection to ethically research, synthesize and evaluate complex information, problems, concepts, interpretations and theories to demonstrate cognitive and technical skills in a body of knowledge or practice. Effectively disseminate research outcomes to a variety of audiences using highly developed communication skills and work productively within a team of experts in the field. |
| Problem solving | Apply critical analysis and reflection to ethically research, synthesize and evaluate complex information, problems, concepts, interpretations and theories to demonstrate cognitive and technical skills in a body of knowledge or practice. Effectively disseminate research outcomes to a variety of audiences using highly developed communication skills and work productively within a team of experts in the field. |
| Self-management | Demonstrate an advanced and integrated understanding of a complex body of knowledge in one or more discipline areas by generating substantial contribution to knowledge through the use of appropriate research principles and methods. |
| Teamwork | Apply critical analysis and reflection to ethically research, synthesize and evaluate complex information, problems, concepts, interpretations and theories to demonstrate cognitive and technical skills in a body of knowledge or practice. Effectively disseminate research outcomes to a variety of audiences using highly developed communication skills and work productively within a team of experts in the field. |
| Global citizenship | Demonstrate autonomy, expert judgement, adaptability, initiative, resilience and responsibility as a practitioner or learner. |
Approved by Faculty Board 7 June 2018
*Deakin references data from a range of government, higher education and reputable media sources. For more information, visit our University rankings page.
