QUALIFICATION
Master’s Degree (Level 9, 300 points)
Duration
2.5 years
Location
City Campus, Auckland
Fees
NZD 55,484
Entry Score
IELTS: Academic 6.5
Next Intake
March & July
Programme Overview
The Master of Architecture (Professional) and Urban Design [MArch(Prof)UrbDes] at the University of Auckland is a 300-point combined postgraduate programme that merges professional architectural training with advanced urban design theory and practice. Completed in 2.5 years (less time than undertaking both degrees separately), it builds a platform for contemporary architectural practice while focusing on the ecological, social, and economic conditions shaping vibrant cities. The architecture component is fully accredited by the New Zealand Registered Architects Board (NZRAB), Te Kāhui Whaihanga New Zealand Institute of Architects (NZIA), and the Commonwealth Association of Architects (CAA).
Note: Graduates satisfy the academic requirements for professional architecture registration in New Zealand while gaining advanced credentials for leadership roles in urban design, master planning, and municipal development.
Programme Structure & Core Formats
The 300-point curriculum spans five semesters of full-time study combining taught studios, cross-disciplinary seminars, and a design thesis:
- Architectural & Urban Design Studios: Advanced studio modules focusing on complex building types, high-density residential developments, public spaces, and urban infrastructure.
- Urban Theory & Practice Seminars: Specialized coursework covering urban morphological analysis, sustainable transport frameworks, environmental policy, and spatial design strategies.
- Design Thesis / Capstone (90–120 points): An independent design-led research thesis exploring a specialized intersection of architecture and urban scale proposition.
What You'll Study
The curriculum integrates architectural practice with multi-scalar urban design methodologies:
- Advanced Architectural & Urban Studios:
- Advanced Architectural Design Studios
- Urban Design Studios & Public Realm Design
- Core Seminars & Technical Modules:
- Urban Design Theory, History & Analysis
- Professional Practice, Law & Ethics
- Sustainable Urban Systems & Physical Infrastructure
- Real Estate Economics & Urban Development
- Research Capstone:
- Design Thesis in Architecture & Urban Design
Why Choose This Programme?
- Combined Dual Credential: Earn an accredited professional architectural qualification along with comprehensive urban design expertise in 2.5 years.
- Professionally Recognized: Fully accredited by NZRAB, NZIA, and CAA for professional architectural registration pathways.
- Broad Scope of Impact: Prepares designers to operate seamlessly across micro-scale detailed building architecture and macro-scale city planning.
Career Pathways
| Sector | Roles |
|---|---|
| Professional Architecture | Graduate Architect (on path to NZRAB Registration), Architectural Urbanist |
| Urban Design & Master Planning | Urban Designer, City Master Planner, Infrastructure & Public Realm Consultant |
| Public Sector & Policy | Municipal Urban Advisory Officer, Regional Growth Planner, Built Environment Advisor |
Entry Requirements
- Academic Baseline: Completion of a BAS degree with a minimum GPA/GPE of 4.0.
- Portfolio Submission: Required via SlideRoom (12–15 pages + CV + statement) if the prerequisite degree was completed over 2 years prior.
- Registration Status: Meets educational criteria for NZRAB/NZIA architectural registration (subject to mandatory practical work experience and board examination post-graduation).
- Language Requirement: Academic IELTS 6.5 overall (no band < 6.0), PTE 58 (no communicative score < 50), or TOEFL iBT 90.
