Course overview
Discover architectural ideas through cutting-edge content. Develop your creativity and gain a practical understanding of the built environment and its relationship with the community through meaningful and sustainable design. This five-year course provides a packaged education pathway for those interested in pursuing architectural professional registration. You will gain practical skills in a studio environment and develop your ability to communicate your design ideas under the guidance of passionate staff.
From the first year and throughout your studies, you will explore innovative design ideas in response to real-world scenarios and present your ideas for consideration by registered architects. This practical, applied and industry-connected approach to learning ensures you receive feedback and insight into your work from professional practitioners with local and global architecture experience.
Want to transform your love of architectural design into a rewarding career?
Articulation of design ideas and defending those in an open forum is a key element of the course, as is development of research and analytical skills and Indigenous knowledge in design. Technical skills development (e.g. AutoCAD) and communication of design through text, graphics and 3D modelling are strategically integrated throughout the course. This enables scaffolded skill development that culminates in demonstration of your advanced design work in the capstone unit in the final year of study.
Your learning space will be world class, with Deakin's extensive a+b studio - an inspiring open-plan space that enables you to work collaboratively and develop your projects. You will also have access to our purpose-built workshop. This is where 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC routers and traditional tools and machinery are at hand for you to fabricate models and experiment with technology, materials and processes.
Read MoreKey dates
Direct applications to Deakin for Trimester 1 2025 close 16 February 2025
Current Deakin Students
To access your official course details for the year you started your degree, please visit the handbook
Course information
- Award granted
Bachelor of Design (Architecture)/Master of Architecture
- Year
2025 course information
- VTAC code
1400411451 - Waterfront (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS)
1400412021 - Waterfront (Geelong), Commonwealth Supported Place (HECS) -Regional Access Scheme- Deakin code
- D306
- CRICOS code?
- 111440H Waterfront (Geelong)
- Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognition
The award conferred upon completion is recognised in the Australian Qualifications Framework at Level 7/9
Course structure
To qualify for the award of Bachelor of Design (Architecture)/Master of Architecture, students must pass 40 credit points as follows:
Bachelor of Design (Architecture)
The course comprises a total of 24 credit points, which must include the following:
- DAI001 Academic Integrity and Respect at Deakin (0-credit point compulsory unit)
- SRA010 Safety Induction Program (0-credit point compulsory unit)
- 19 core units (totalling 22 credit points)
- 2 open elective units.
To progress into the Master of Architecture level of studies from undergraduate architecture, students must achieve a Weighted Average Mark (WAM) of 65. Students achieving a WAM between 55 and 64 have the opportunity to submit a portfolio of relevant work and personal statement for consideration to potentially progress into the master level of studies. Students cannot progress to the postgraduate level of study without completing all 24 credit points at undergraduate level. A WAM of less than 55 results in an alternative exit from D306 Bachelor of Design (Architecture)/Master of Architecture with the award: S342 Bachelor of Design (Architecture).
Master of Architecture
The course comprises a total of 16 credit points, which must include the following:
- 10 core units (totalling 13 credit points)
- 3 course electives (you can choose from the list below or from any level 7 SR* coded unit).
Students are required to meet the University's academic progress and conduct requirements.
24
Bachelor of Design (Architecture) credit points
16
Master of Architecture credit points
40
Total
Bachelor of Design (Architecture) core
Year 1 - Trimester 1
Year 1 - Trimester 2
Year 2 - Trimester 1
Plus one open elective unit (one credit point)
Year 2 - Trimester 2
Year 3 - Trimester 1
Year 3 - Trimester 2
Plus one open elective unit (one credit point)
Master of Architecture core
Students must have passed 24 credit points of the Bachelor of Design (Architecture) course before progressing to the Master of Architecture postgraduate level units. Students must also meet the WAM requirement for progression to the Master of Architecture as outlined in the course rules.
Year 4 - Trimester 1
Year 4 - Trimester 2
Plus 1 level 7 SR coded or course elective (1 credit point)
Year 5 - Trimester 1
Plus 1 level 7 SR coded or course elective (1 credit point)
Year 5 - Trimester 2
Plus 1 level 7 SR coded or course elective (1 credit point)
Master of Architecture Course elective units
Three (3) level 7 electives (3 credit points)
Students may select elective units from the list below or from any level 7 SR coded unit pending 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).
^ Completion of STP710 Career Tools for Employability (0-credit point compulsory unit) as a pre-requisite.
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)
Deakin splits the academic year into three terms, known as trimesters. Most students usually undertake two trimesters each year (March-June, July-November).
Course duration
Course duration may be affected by delays in completing course requirements, such as failing of units or accessing or completing placements.
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 engage in a range of teaching activities each week. This could include lectures, 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.
Work experience
You’ll have the opportunity to undertake a discipline-specific industry placement as part of your course. Explore the SEBE WIL program.
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 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.
If you don't meet the academic entry requirements as outlined in the tabs below, or haven't completed Year 12, or don't hold any relevant qualifications, the STAT (Skills for Tertiary Admissions Test) Multiple Choice (MC) may be an option for you to meet course entry requirements.
Academic requirements
Current or recent secondary education
If you're currently studying Year 12, or completed Year 12 in the last two years, you will need to meet all the following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
Year 12 prerequisite subjects
- Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English EAL (English as an Additional Language) or at least 20 in English other than EAL
ATAR
- Senior Secondary Certificate of Education with an unadjusted ATAR of at least 50 or equivalent
To progress into the Master of Architecture level of studies from undergraduate architecture, students must achieve a Weighted Average Mark (WAM) of 65. Students achieving a WAM between 55 and 64 have the opportunity to submit a portfolio of relevant work and personal statement for consideration to potentially progress into the masters level of studies. Students cannot progress to the postgraduate level of study without completing all 24 credit points at undergraduate level. Students who do not meet the requirements and have a WAM of less than 55 will exit with the award S342 Bachelor of Design (Architecture).
Higher education
If you have undertaken higher education studies after secondary schooling, you will need to meet all the following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
- successful completion of at least two bachelor level or above units (AQF Level 7 or equivalent)
To progress into the Master of Architecture level of studies from undergraduate architecture, students must achieve a Weighted Average Mark (WAM) of 65. Students achieving a WAM between 55 and 64 have the opportunity to submit a portfolio of relevant work and personal statement for consideration to potentially progress into the master level of studies. Students cannot progress to the postgraduate level of study without completing all 24 credit points at undergraduate level. Students who do not meet the requirements and have a WAM of less than 55 will exit with the award S342 Bachelor of Design (Architecture).
Vocational education
If you have undertaken any Vocational Education and Training (VET) study after secondary school, you will need to meet at least one of following criteria to be considered for admission to this degree:
- completion of a certificate IV or higher in a related discipline
- completion of a diploma or higher in any discipline
- at least 50% completion of a diploma or higher in a related discipline
To progress into the Master of Architecture level of studies from undergraduate architecture, students must achieve a Weighted Average Mark (WAM) of 65. Students achieving a WAM between 55 and 64 have the opportunity to submit a portfolio of relevant work and personal statement for consideration to potentially progress into the master level of studies. Students cannot progress to the postgraduate level of study without completing all 24 credit points at undergraduate level. Students who do not meet the requirements and have a WAM of less than 55 will exit with the award S342 Bachelor of Design (Architecture).
Work and life experience
If you finished Year 12 more than three years ago, or did not finish Year 12, and haven't undertaken any further study, you may be considered for admission to this degree based on your work, volunteer and/or life experience.
Submit a personal statement outlining your motivation to study, previous education and employment history, and how this course can assist your career aspirations or progression. Think of it as a job application cover letter - it should be relevant and demonstrate your commitment and interest in this course or study area.
To progress into the Master of Architecture level of studies from undergraduate architecture, students must achieve a Weighted Average Mark (WAM) of 65. Students achieving a WAM between 55 and 64 have the opportunity to submit a portfolio of relevant work and personal statement for consideration to potentially progress into the master level of studies. Students cannot progress to the postgraduate level of study without completing all 24 credit points at undergraduate level. Students who do not meet the requirements and have a WAM of less than 55 will exit with the award S342 Bachelor of Design (Architecture).
English language proficiency requirements
To meet the English language proficiency requirements of this course, you will need to demonstrate at least one of the following:
- Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) English Units 3 and 4: Study score of 25 in English as an Additional Language (EAL) or 20 in any other English
- IELTS overall score of 6 (with no band score less than 6.0) or equivalent
- other evidence of English language proficiency (learn more about other ways to satisfy the requirements)
Selection adjustments
Subject adjustment
A study score of 35 in any English, any History or any Science equals 2 aggregate points per study. A study score of 35 in one but no more than one of Art, Product Design And Technology, Studio Arts or Visual Communication Design equals 2 aggregate points per study. Overall maximum of 8 points.
Access and equity
Special entry access schemes (SEAS) enable Deakin to consider disadvantaged circumstances you may have experienced and the impact upon your studies. SEAS also allows us to identify if you’re from under-represented groups when making selection decisions for some courses. SEAS does not exempt you from meeting any of the course entry requirements. Learn more about Deakin’s special entry access schemes.
Admissions information
Learn more about Deakin courses and how we compare to other universities when it comes to the quality of our teaching and learning. We're also committed to admissions transparency. Read about our first intake of 2024 students (PDF, 793KB) – their average ATARs, whether they had any previous higher education experience and more.
Not sure if you can get into Deakin? Discover the different entry pathways we offer and study options available to you, no matter your ATAR or education history.
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 (RPL) system which outlines the credit that may be granted towards a Deakin University degree and how to apply for credit.
Fees and scholarships
Fee information
Learn more about fees.
The tuition fees you pay will depend on the units you choose, as each unit has its own cost. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is provided as a guide only and represents the typical first-year tuition fees for students enrolled in this course. The cost will vary depending on the units you choose, your study load, the time it takes to complete your course and any approved Recognition of prior learning you have.
Each unit you enrol in has a credit point value. The 'Estimated tuition fee' is calculated by adding together 8 credit points of a typical combination of units for this course. Eight credit points is used as it represents a typical full-time enrolment load for a year. 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 on our Current students fees website.
Scholarship options
A Deakin scholarship could help you pay for your course fees, living costs and study materials. If you've got something special to offer Deakin - or maybe you just need a bit of extra support - we've got a scholarship opportunity for you. Search or browse through our scholarships
Apply now
Applications for Trimester 1, 2025 are open. We've helped over 300,000 Deakin graduates across Australia and throughout the world apply with confidence. In Year 12? Follow these how to apply steps. Completed secondary education in or prior to 2021? Follow these how to apply steps.
To apply, create an account in the Deakin Application Portal, enter your personal details and education experience, upload supporting documents and submit. Need help? Play this video, or contact one of our friendly future student advisers on 1800 693 888 or submit an online enquiry.
You can apply for this course through the Deakin Regional Access Scheme, which is offered to current Year 12 students looking to study at our regional campuses. We want to know all about the skills, experience and achievements that make you unique and prepare you for university study.
To apply, complete the online application form and preference your chosen course in your VTAC application, using the Deakin Regional Access Scheme VTAC code.
Pathways
View pathways into the Bachelor of Design (Architecture)/Master of Architecture with our pathways finder.
Alternative exits
- Bachelor of Design (Architecture) (S342)
- Diploma of Science and Technology (S200)
- 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 Monday – Friday, 9am–5pm
- Live Chat: Monday - Friday
- Submit an online enquiry
- Help hub find common and trending questions and answers
Careers
Career outcomes
Deakin architecture graduates work across the globe, from the UK, Berlin and Oslo, to China, Dubai and the US. Our Bachelor of Design (Architecture) graduates have pursued roles in the built environment field, including:
- 3D architectural modeller
- architectural consultant or designer
- design coordinator.
Professional recognition
Deakin is currently seeking professional accreditation with allied professional accreditation bodies. The single degree, Master of Architecture (S700), remains accredited with the allied professional accreditation bodies.
For additional information regarding professional accreditation requirements please refer to the Architects Accreditation Council of Australia (AACA)
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 Bachelor of Design (Architecture) | Course Learning Outcomes Master of Architecture |
---|---|---|
Discipline-specific knowledge and capabilities | Synthesise knowledge of architecture history, theory, technology, and practice to design, develop and manage architecture projects, demonstrating initiative and judgement for professional practice. Apply technical and theoretical knowledge of architectural design to propose diverse, authentic, alternative, and well-rounded responses that are conceptually and physically sustainable to problems in the contemporary built environment. Integrate the knowledge of language of architecture, its meanings, capacities, and implications to demonstrate ability and responsibility as reflective practitioners, in making decisions to define the human landscape. | 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 contexts using oral, visual, digital, graphic, and interpersonal communication modes to inform, motivate and persuade specialist and non-specialist audiences about architectural ideas and designs. Imagine, conceive, and represent ideas using the language of architecture, its codes, and conventions to reflect on possibilities, the implications of hypothetical designs and its applications. | 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 knowledge of relevant technological tools, methodologies, and techniques to locate, collect, analyse, interpret, and synthesise complex information. Use architecture theory and practice to analyse, evaluate, produce, and disseminate design responses using techniques and technology ethically and responsibly in a digital world. | 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 | Use critical thinking to analyse and provide a rational, reflective, and socially responsible response to architectural problems at different scales and complexities in a variety of contexts. Examine causes and consequences of different morphologies to appreciate their capacities and opportunities to reproduce, manipulate, and identify conventional and alternative solutions to architectural problems. | 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 | Investigate and identify ill-defined real world environmental, cultural, physical, and social architectural problems, explain its significance, causes and consequences, and use a methodical approach to formulate a solution. Make appropriate choices to solve problems in complex and contradictory situations based on knowledge of social, economic, environmental, and cultural aspects of architectural design to evolve human landscape. | 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 | Work independently and collaboratively to produce architectural designs and responses in an ethical, responsible, and professional manner. Use initiative and judgement to reflect on knowledge and skills, to demonstrate autonomy and capacity to identify opportunities for improving practice. | 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 | Work as a team to analyse and evaluate complex problems, and share critical, analytical, and creative approaches to select best responses to architectural problems. | 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 | Integrate subjective and objective stakeholder perspectives in the process of formulating architectural and design responses considering economic, cultural, social, and ethical values inherent in human landscape. Engage with global trends in contemporary architectural design and urbanism to recognise cultural diversity, the need for equity in outcomes and implement high ethical and professional standards. | 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. |