Master of Architecture (Professional) – MArch(Prof)
Wellington, New Zealand
DURATION
2 up to 4 Years
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time, Part time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
Request application deadline
EARLIEST START DATE
Feb 2025
TUITION FEES
NZD 10,934 / per year
STUDY FORMAT
On-Campus
Introduction
Become an architect through advanced study at the postgraduate level and be part of shaping our built environment.
Take a step towards registration as an architect in New Zealand with a Master of Architecture (Professional). Increase your knowledge, hone your design skills, develop your ability to think both critically and creatively, and learn more about the role of a professional architect.
Learn through a combination of taught courses and a written thesis or research portfolio that involves self-directed, design-led research. You'll graduate with a range of design projects that demonstrate mastery in your area of interest.
Professional accreditation
Your MArch(Prof) from Te Herenga Waka-Victoria University of Wellington will be recognised by the New Zealand Registered Architects Board (NZRAB) as fulfilling the academic requirements for registration to practise as an architect. You'll need to spend two to three years gaining practical experience before you can apply to register. The Board will then assess your professional competence.
You'll also meet the academic requirements for professional registration as a practising architect with the industry organisation, the New Zealand Institute of Architects (NZIA).
Our MArch(Prof) not only leads to registration as an architect in New Zealand-as a Registered Architect you are entitled to be registered or licensed in Australia and some jurisdictions of the United States of America. You will also be able to become a member of the New Zealand Institute of Architects, the professional organisation for architects.
Duration and workload
The Master of Architecture (Professional) can be completed in two years of full-time study or up to four years part-time.
If you are studying full-time, you can expect a workload of 40-45 hours a week for much of the year. Part-time students must do around 20–23 hours of work a week. Make sure you take this into account if you are working.
Admissions
Curriculum
What you'll study
In your first year, or Part 1, you'll do seven taught courses. Study advanced architectural design and advanced construction theory and practice including the integration of technology. You'll explore contemporary architectural theories and learn about professional practice. You'll also study advanced research techniques, including historical and theoretical approaches.
Research year
During the second year, or Part 2, you'll complete a research portfolio or thesis under supervision from academic staff in the School.
The School of Architecture has three main research areas:
- creative and critical, which focuses on design research, representation, and history and theory
- sustainability and wellbeing, which includes research about resilient and sustainable cities, designing for wellbeing and positive social impact, and design for Indigenous people and minorities
- performance and technology, which includes building performance, construction technologies and materials, simulation methods and virtual spaces.
You'll be part of a strong culture of research and work with experienced staff who have published a variety of scholarly articles, books, and conference papers.
Gallery
Scholarships and Funding
The Wellington School of Architecture has several prizes and scholarships available each year. You can also look for other scholarships based on your level of study, subject area and background.
Career Opportunities
You'll graduate ready for a career in mainstream architecture in a private practice or a government organisation.
However, your broad range of skills will be adaptable to many related careers so you will also find opportunities outside the mainstream profession. These might include urban planners or urban designers, interior designers, stage or movie set designers, property developers, project managers, teachers or researchers, or work in construction law.