QUALIFICATION
Bachelor’s Degree (Level 7, 360 points)
Duration
3 years
Location
City Campus, Auckland
Fees
NZ 52,148
Entry Score
IELTS: Academic 6.0
Next Intake
March
Programme Overview
The Bachelor of Architectural Studies (BAS) at the University of Auckland (School of Architecture and Planning) is a 360-point undergraduate degree. The programme introduces students to the core aspects of architecture through design studio projects, building technologies, spatial design, and environmental science. It combines physical modeling, hand drawing, and industry-standard digital media to train graduates in critical thinking and creative problem-solving.
Note: Completing the BAS provides the mandatory academic foundation to progress into the Master of Architecture (Professional) [MArch(Prof)], which is required to become a registered architect in New Zealand.
Programme Pathways & Core Formats
The 360-point qualification is delivered across three years of full-time study (120 points per year):
- Year 1 Design & Fundamentals (120 points): Introduces core design studio work, hand drawing, digital tools, architectural history, basic construction principles, and sustainable design.
- Year 2 Advanced Media & Structures (120 points): Focuses on intermediate design studios, structural logic, environmental technologies, and architectural theory.
- Year 3 Complex Design & Capstone (120 points): Focuses on urban-scale design projects, integration of complex structural systems, and a major capstone design studio project.
What You'll Study
The curriculum integrates creative studio practice with technical and critical coursework:
- Architectural Design Studios:
- Design Studio 1A & 1B
- Intermediate & Advanced Architectural Design Studios
- Technology & Environmental Performance:
- Architectural Construction & Structural Systems
- Environmental Design & Sustainable Materiality
- Representation & Digital Media:
- Architectural Representation (Drawing & Physical Modelling)
- Digital Design Communication & Software Tools
- History, Theory & Society:
- Architectural History and Theory
- Contextual & Critical Studies
Why Choose This Programme?
- Pathway to Professional Registration: Fulfills the prerequisite academic degree required to enter professional master's qualifications for NZIA registration.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Access to specialized fabrication workshops, 3D printing, laser cutters, and professional architectural software.
- Integrated Creative Studio Environment: Hands-on learning through real-world case studies, speculative design projects, and peer collaboration.
Career Pathways
| Sector | Roles |
|---|---|
| Architectural Design (Path to Registration) | Graduate Architectural Designer, Architectural Assistant |
| Built Environment & Construction | Design Technician, Architectural Draftsperson, BIM Specialist |
| Creative & Spatial Industries | Set Designer, Interior Spatial Designer, Digital Visualization Specialist |
Entry Requirements
- Academic Minimums: Guaranteed entry with NCEA (230), CIE (280), or IB (31) rank scores. Overseas or tertiary entry requires a minimum 4.7 GPE.
- Portfolio Requirement: All applicants must submit a creative portfolio (12–15 pages of drawings, models, or design work) and a 1-page written statement via SlideRoom.
- Selection Process: Final entry offers are made based on the combined assessment of academic grades, portfolio quality, and personal statement.
- Language Requirement: Academic IELTS 6.0 overall (no band < 5.5), PTE 50 (no communicative score < 42), or TOEFL iBT 80.
