Master of Architecture (Professional)

Programme Overview

The Master of Architecture (Professional) [MArch(Prof)] at the University of Auckland is a 240-point, professionally accredited postgraduate degree designed for students seeking to practice as registered architects. Recognized by the New Zealand Registered Architects Board (NZRAB), Te Kāhui Whaihanga New Zealand Institute of Architects (NZIA), and the Commonwealth Association of Architects (CAA), the programme builds advanced competency in design, technology, professional practice, and architectural theory, culminating in an independent design-led research thesis.

Note: The MArch(Prof) is the official educational pathway to professional registration as an architect in New Zealand and across participating Commonwealth jurisdictions.

Programme Structure & Core Formats

The qualification spans two years of full-time study comprising taught courses and an individual thesis:

1. Year One (120 points): Advanced studio courses, core professional seminars, and elective options in areas such as sustainable design, urban design, digital fabrication, or history/theory.
2. Year Two (120 points): Dedicated entirely to an individual design-led research thesis (ARCHDES 796), where students explore a specific architectural design proposition supported by academic research.

What You'll Study

The curriculum blends practical design studio work with theoretical and technical seminars:

• Advanced Design Studios & Practice:
  • Advanced Architectural Design Studios
  • Professional Practice and Ethics
• Taught Seminars & Elective Tracks:
  • Sustainable Design & Environmental Systems
  • Urban Design & Public Space
  • Material & Digital Fabrication
  • Architectural History & Theory
• Design Thesis (120 points):
  • Design-Led Thesis / Research Project

Why Choose This Programme?

• Professionally Accredited: Meets the academic requirements for registration with NZRAB, NZIA, and CAA.
• Design-Led Research Thesis: Spend your second year developing a personal architectural thesis guided by academic leaders and guest industry critics.
• Industry Networks: Taught seminars and studio crits are routinely supported by leading architectural practitioners and industry specialists.

Entry Requirements

• Academic Baseline: Completion of BAS degree with a minimum GPA/GPE of 4.0.
• Portfolio Requirement: Required via SlideRoom (12–15 pages + CV + statement) if BAS was completed more than 2 years prior to commencement.
• Academic Performance Standard: Students must maintain a minimum GPA of 4.0 over 90 points of taught courses in Year 1 before enrolling in the Year 2 thesis component.
• Language Requirement: Academic IELTS 6.5 overall (no band < 6.0), PTE 58 (no communicative score < 50), or TOEFL iBT 90.