Programme overview
If you wish to become a practising architect, you must complete the MArch(Prof) programme or one of our associated combined masters programmes (followed by additional requirements from the registration boards).
The MArch(Prof) is professionally accredited, recognised by the New Zealand Registered Architects Board (NZRAB), Te Kāhui Whaihanga New Zealand Institute of Architects (NZIA) and the Commonwealth Association of Architects (CAA).
Following a year of advanced study, you will have the chance to explore an individual architectural design proposition, supported by a strong theoretical component, in a design thesis.
Programme structure
- Core courses: 90 points
- Elective courses: 30 points. Learn more about the Elective Seminar options.
- Thesis: 120 points
You'll also need to meet other requirements, including time limits and total points limits. See Postgraduate enrolment.
Sample programme structure
Year 1 120 points
-
- Code:
- ARCHDES 700
- Name:
- Advanced Design 1
- Type:
- Compulsory core course
- Points:
- 30 pts
-
- Code:
- ARCHPRM 701
- Name:
- Professional Studies 2
- Type:
- Compulsory core course
- Points:
- 15 pts
-
- Name:
- Elective Seminar
- Type:
- Elective Seminar
- Points:
- 15 pts
-
- Code:
- ARCHDES 701
- Name:
- Advanced Design 2
- Type:
- Compulsory core course
- Points:
- 30 pts
-
- Code:
- ARCHGEN 703
- Name:
- Design as Research
- Type:
- Compulsory core course
- Points:
- 15 pts
-
- Name:
- Elective Seminar
- Type:
- Elective Seminar
- Points:
- 15 pts
Year 2 120 points
-
- Code:
- ARCHDES 796A
- Name:
- Thesis
- Type:
- Thesis
- Points:
- 60 pts
-
- Code:
- ARCHDES 796B
- Name:
- Thesis
- Type:
- Thesis
- Points:
- 60 pts
2024 entry requirements
My highest qualification is from:
Programme requirements
Minimum programme requirements
Minimum requirements listed here are the likely grades required and do not guarantee entry. We assess each application individually and applicants may require a higher grade to be offered a place.
-
Study optionResearch 240 pointsGrade requiredGPA Grade Point Average 4.0
Bachelor of Architectural Studies
Further programme requirements
Research 240 points
You must have completed your Bachelor of Architectural Studies (BAS) with a GPA of 4.0 or higher over 90 points at Stage III. You must have completed your degree within two years of commencing the MArch(Prof).
If your BAS was completed more than two years prior to starting your MArch(Prof), you must submit a portfolio, written statement and CV via the portfolio system Slideroom.
Portfolio content
Your portfolio should convey your design ability and sensibility, your creativity and your skill with a range of architectural media. It must consist of between 12 and 15 pages of your own drawings and / or other creative works.
- You can choose any page size up to a maximum of A3 to present your work.
- You may display one or multiple images on each page.
- Each PDF file submitted must not exceed one page in length.
- Each digital experiment counts as one page.
View sample MArch(Prof) portfolio
Written statement
This one page document should outline your reasons for wanting to participate in the MArch(Prof) programme.
CV content
This brief CV should include descriptions and examples of relevant work experience or any other activities considered relevant to the application. Details of any academic and/or professional design awards/prizes should also be included.
Submit your portfolio, written statement and CV via the portfolio system Slideroom by 8 December.
Other pathways to study
If you have no more than 20 points remaining to complete your BAS, and have an average grade of B (or higher) in your final year of study, you may still apply for entry into the MArch(Prof).
You will need to complete your remaining BAS points within 12 months of enrolling in the MArch(Prof).
Programme requirements
Minimum programme requirements
Minimum requirements listed here are the likely grades required and do not guarantee entry. We assess each application individually and applicants may require a higher grade to be offered a place.
-
Study optionResearch 240 pointsGrade requiredGPE Grade Point Equivalent 4.0
An undergraduate degree in architecture or equivalent
-
QualificationIELTS Academic International English Language Testing SystemScore required6.5
No bands less than 6.0
Further programme requirements
Research 240 points
You must submit a portfolio, written statement and CV via the portfolio system Slideroom.
Portfolio content
Your portfolio should convey your design ability and sensibility, your creativity and your skill with a range of architectural media. It must consist of between 12 and 15 pages of your own drawings and / or other creative works.
- You can choose any page size up to a maximum of A3 to present your work.
- You may display one or multiple images on each page.
- Each PDF file submitted must not exceed one page in length.
- Each digital experiment counts as one page.
View sample MArch(Prof) portfolio
Written statement
This one page document should outline your reasons for wanting to participate in the MArch(Prof) programme.
CV content
This brief CV should include descriptions and examples of relevant work experience or any other activities considered relevant to the application. Details of any academic and/or professional design awards/prizes should also be included.
Submit your portfolio, written statement and CV via the portfolio system Slideroom by 8 December.
Other pathways to study
University of Auckland programmes that are suitable alternative pathways into the MArch(Prof):
- Bachelor of Architectural Studies (BAS)
- Graduate Diploma in Architectural Studies (GradDipAS)
If you hold an undergraduate degree in a related discipline, such as spatial design or architectural technology, you may be eligible to transfer credit towards your Bachelor of Architectural Studies. For more information, please see External transfer of credit.
How much does a Master of Architecture (Professional) cost per year?
2025 fees
- Domestic students
- NZ$9,015.60*
- International students
- NZ$50,810*
Fees are set in advance of each calendar year and will be updated on this website. Fees are inclusive of 15% GST, but do not include the Student Services Fee, course books, travel and health insurance, or living costs. Amounts shown are indicative only. In addition to the tuition fees, there is a Student Services Fee of $8.88 per point, estimated at $1,065.60 for full-time study (120 points). Fees will be confirmed upon completion of enrolment into courses.
*Please note: amounts shown are indicative and estimates only.
Find out about financial support information
Scholarships and awards
Find out about the scholarships you may be eligible for.
Student loans and allowances
Are you a New Zealand citizen or resident? You could be eligible for a student loan or allowance.
Cost of living
Get an idea of how much accommodation and general living in Auckland will cost.
Key dates
Note: For international applicants, the application closing date for Semester Two 2024 is 24 May 2024.
Please note: We will consider late applications if places are still available. International students should start the application process as early as possible to allow sufficient time to apply for a visa.
Application closing dates
- Semester One 2025
- 8 December 2024
- Semester Two 2025
- 4 July 2025
Start dates
Here are the start dates for the programme.
Semester One | Starts – 26 February |
---|---|
Ends – 24 June | |
Semester Two | Starts – 15 July |
Ends – 11 November |
Semester One | Starts – 3 March |
---|---|
Ends – 30 June | |
Semester Two | Starts – 21 July |
Ends – 17 November |
Other important dates
See important dates for the academic year, including orientation, enrolment, study breaks, exams, and graduation.
We welcome any questions you may have about this programme. Contact our postgraduate adviser:
Postgraduate Adviser
Dr Ferdinand Oswald
Email: ferdinand.oswald@auckland.ac.nz
Where could this programme take you?
Successful completion of an MArch(Prof) qualifies you to work as an architectural graduate, with the goal of gaining full professional registration. You can also contribute to the industry as a designer, project manager, consultant or client liaison. Graduates also utilise their creative thinking in other fields, such as film or web design.
Jobs related to this programme
- Architect (following successful completion of additional professional registration requirements)
- Building industry consultant
- Digital design professional
- Heritage or cultural consultant
- Project manager
- Urban designer
After graduating with First Class Honours, Francisco started his own architectural firm FNC Designs. Returning to study was a life changing decision, he says.
Read Francisco's storyStudent career planning service
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