- Duration
- Full-time: 30 months
- Part-time: Varies
- Next start date
- 2026 Semester One – 2 March
- 2027 Semester One – 1 March
- Available locations
- City
- Points
- 300
- Programme type
- Postgraduate
- Research options available
Programme overview
The Master of Architecture (Professional) and Urban Design will give you a sound platform for the realities of contemporary practice.
In less time than it takes to complete the two degrees separately, you will gain the qualification necessary to practice as a professional architect*, and investigate the ecological, social and economic conditions of good urban cities and spaces.
The MArch(Prof)UrbDes 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).
Read the full programme regulations for the Master of Architecture (Professional) and Urban Design in the University of Auckland Calendar.
*If you wish to become a practising architect, you must complete this programme (or any of our MArch(Prof) programmes) as well as additional requirements from the registration boards.
Programme structure
This programme combines courses from the two standalone masters programmes.
Through taught seminars and studios, you will further your design and theoretical skills and respond to real world urban design issues, such as sustainable design, physical and social infrastructures and urban development. You will be able to explore areas of interest and submit a design thesis of personal research.
Seminars and assessment critiques are often led by leading practitioners, giving you the chance to network and gain valuable insight into the profession.
- Core courses: 165 points
- Elective course: 15 points. Learn 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:
- URBDES 710
- Name:
- Urban Design Studio 1
- Type:
- Compulsory core course
- Points:
- 30 pts
-
- Code:
- URBDES 702
- Name:
- Urban Design Theory and Practice
- Type:
- Compulsory core course
- Points:
- 15 pts
-
- Name:
- Elective Seminar
- Type:
- Elective Seminar
- Points:
- 15 pts
-
- Code:
- URBDES 720
- Name:
- Urban Design Studio 2
- Type:
- Compulsory core course
- Points:
- 30 pts
-
- Code:
- URBPLAN 707
- Name:
- Urban Economic Development
- Type:
- Compulsory core course
- Points:
- 15 pts
-
- Code:
- ARCHGEN 703
- Name:
- Design as Research
- Type:
- Compulsory core course
- Points:
- 15 pts
Year 2 120 points
-
- Code:
- ARCHDES 700
- Name:
- Advanced Design 1
- Type:
- Compulsory core course
- Points:
- 30 pts
-
- Code:
- ARCHPRM 701
- Name:
- Practice Management
- Type:
- Compulsory core course
- Points:
- 15 pts
-
- Name:
- Elective Seminar
- Type:
- Elective Seminar
- Points:
- 15 pts
-
- Code:
- ARCHDES 796A
- Name:
- Thesis
- Type:
- Thesis
- Points:
- 60 pts
Year 3 60 points
-
- Code:
- ARCHDES 796B
- Name:
- Thesis
- Type:
- Thesis
- Points:
- 60 pts
Where could this programme take you?
Successful completion of a Master of Architecture (Professional) and Urban Design qualifies you to work as an architectural graduate, with the goal of gaining full professional registration. However, you can also contribute to the industry as an urban designer in a private or public organisation.
Jobs related to this programme
- Architect (following successful completion of additional professional registration requirements)
- Cultural adviser
- Design consultant
- Environmental planner
- Policy analyst
- Urban designer
Student career planning service
Once you become a student at the University, you can get help with planning and developing your career from Career Development and Employability Services.
Do you need help?
Can’t find the answer in AskAuckland?
Need to speak to someone?
You can phone us directly.
- Auckland
- 923 5025
- Outside Auckland
- 0800 61 62 63
- International
- +64 9 373 7513