Course overview

Australia is one of the top destinations in the world when it comes to studying built environment and architecture. This is due to the fact that the country is steeped in architectural heritage and history, home to many marvellous architectural icons such as the Eureka Tower and Sydney Opera House.

Students can pursue esteem careers in both commercial firms, public institutions and private practice upon the completion of studying building and architecture in Australia. There is a comprehensive range of courses available in these subject areas, often referred to as ‘the Built Environment’ at Australian universities.

The Built Environment encompasses courses that look into design, build and manage buildings within their environments. You can choose to undertake professional training in disciplines including architecture, interior architecture, landscape architecture, industrial design, construction project management, property development, and surveying. Courses are also available in areas such as urban development and design, urban policy and strategy, urban planning, building science, and sustainable development.

As for Architecture, you would need to first understand the mechanics of how to be an architect. Firstly, a completion of a three-year undergraduate degree is required (usually a Bachelor of Architectural Studies or Bachelor of Design in Architecture) before going on to a two-year professional Masters (the Master of Architecture); hence, a total of five years academic training throughout the course of studies.

To become a fully registered Architect in Australia, you will also need to complete two years of professional practise - this is best done in the country that you intend to register and work as an Architect. You can find out more from the relevant national association below: Australia - Architects Accreditation Council of Australia (AACA). Programmes in Australia are also accredited by the Commonwealth Association of Architects (CAA).

Why study building and architecture in Australia?

  • Building and architectural colleges in Australia have a rigorous curriculum to ensure graduates are employment-ready. This includes working on real-life projects, engaging with stakeholders and accessing global opportunities.

  • Choose from a wide variety of architectural disciplines that interest you such as landscape architecture, urban development, architectural design and built environment.

  • Students studying architecture have the opportunity to gain industry insight during their program through internships in firms, working in real-world architectural projects.

  • Excellent employment opportunities await students who study building and architecture in Australia, back home and within Australia itself.

  • Take your first step in becoming a recognised and registered architect in Australia.

Key facts about studying architecture in Australia

  • Australia is home to 7 of the top 100 universities in the world (QS Top Universities 2020) as well as 10 of the world’s top building and architectural colleges (QS Top Architecture / Built Environment Universities 2019) such as The University of Melbourne and RMIT University.

  • You can stay and work in Australia between 2 and 4 years after you graduate with a degree from an Australian university with the Post-Study Work Stream Temporary Graduate visa.

  • Australia is a peaceful country, ranking 13 out of 163 countries in the 2019 Global Peace Index

Choosing your building and architecture university

Here are some key things to look out for in choosing your building and architecture university in Australia:

  • Academic Excellence

    – Research on reviews and teaching professors can give a good insight into the course curriculum in addition to course descriptions. Understand the breadth of exposure the school can give you in terms of real-world projects, internships as well as notable alumni in the architectural industry that came from the university you are looking to apply for.

  • Location

    – Whether it’s the urban cosmopolitanism of Sydney or the more laid-back vibe of coastal Brisbane you prefer, look for a university situated in a region that offers you the best mix of lifestyle and standard of living.

  • Cost

    – While tuition fees shouldn’t vary too much for the same course, the kind of financial assistance and scholarships available to you may differ more substantially. Look for a university that offers scholarships and determine if you are eligible, some scholarships are only awarded to students in certain countries and regions.

  • International Student Support

    – Find a university that offers well-planned support for international students, as they can advise on essentials such as accommodation, student welfare, and post-graduate employment opportunities.

Admission requirements for Australian universities

For Foundation / Diploma / Undergraduate courses:

  • Completing 12 years of elementary and secondary education from a recognised institution

  • For students that are looking to transfer their credit required to submit full Diploma or bachelor’s degree transcripts, alongside the unit course outlines from their prior studies.

  • Required to submit additional documents such as design portfolio, selection test, interview or audition.

  • Proof of English Language proficiency such as IELTS / TOEFL

For Postgraduate / Master’s courses:

  • Completion of Bachelor's degree from a recognised university and meeting university minimum score.

  • Work experience, detailed curriculum vitae

  • Additional documents such as design portfolio, selection test, interview, or audition.

  • Proof of English Language proficiency such as IELTS / TOEFL

Begin your education in building and architecture in Australia with IDP. We will guide you through your options as well as the necessary application processes for universities and visas. Speak to our international education consultants now for free.

Australia Higher Education

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