Master of Architecture (Professional)
Course details
| NZQF Level | 9 |
|---|
About the course
This programme is the final step in becoming a fully registered architect. In this programme you explore at a postgraduate level what it takes to create architectural works of merit and value, and learn to incorporate innovative design research into your architecture practice. Develop the ability to promote sustainable and ethical approaches, and collaborate effectively with different disciplines on architectural design projects. You’ll also further your ability to critically reflect on your own work and that of others.
Get Industry Recognised
This programme is recognised by the New Zealand Registered Architects Board, New Zealand Institute of Architects, and the Architects Accreditation Council of Australia. Which means this leads to initial industry registration as an architect in New Zealand.
Highlights
- Leads to industry registration: together with the Bachelor of Architectural Studies, it forms a five-year package that prepares you to become a registered architect.
- A lively, engaging and challenging architecture programme.
- Focus on advanced knowledge of architectural and urban design issues in New Zealand.
- Compulsory work experience of 480 hours over two years, giving you an essential insight into contemporary architectural practices.
- Includes a major research project on an area of your interest.
- Experienced lecturers, currently practicing part-time staff and visiting experts from New Zealand and overseas.
- A wide range of elective courses that cover topics like architecture in the Pacific, urban housing design, climate-responsive architecture, high-performance cladding, digital fabrication and design economics.
- Choose to take up the new elective course “Designing with Low Carbon Materials Elective (ARCH8624)”. This course explores the environmental credentials, material properties and design implications of low carbon building materials.
Preparing for your application
Your GPA
Applicants must have a recognised undergraduate degree in the discipline of architecture with a grade point average (GPA) of 4.0 or higher for all level 7 courses. Open our GPA Calculator to determine your GPA.
Meet with us
Students who didn’t study their undergraduate degree with Unitec will need to meet with an academic to discuss their professional background, which may require a review of your academic and/or professional portfolio.
Scholarships and Awards
At Unitec, we’re committed to manaaki (supporting) your journey every step of the way. Our scholarships recognise your hard work, achievements, and dedication to learning. Discover how the Master of Architecture Scholarship can help you achieve your goals and take your passion for architecture to the next level.
Career Options
- Architect working in a range of settings
Annual Tuition Fees
Domestic/NZ students
$8,900
(Approximate fees only - includes GST but excludes the Compulsory Student Services Fee (CSSF) levy. Your final study costs depends on a number of factors including the courses you select to study. View options for funding your study and fees-free eligibility)
International students
$30,415 (NZD) (approximate fees for 120 credits) Save upto $2,500 (NZD) with Unitec International Study Grant 2026.Terms and conditions apply.
Semester Dates
Sem 1 2026: 23 Feb – 28 Jun
Sem 2 2026: 20 Jul – 22 Nov
For course and class timings, refer to the specific course webpage.
For StudyLink purposes, please ensure your application states your earliest course start date.
Decomposable theatre design wins national architecture award for Unitec Masters student
Downloads and resources
Programme regulations - Master of Architecture (Professional) Order a personalised brochure Scholarships and awardsStudent LifeFor Māori studentsFor Pacific studentsFor International students
Entry requirements
You must have completed at least one of the following:
- A recognised Bachelor’s degree in the discipline of architecture, with a grade point average of 4.0 (grade of B-) or higher in all Level 7 courses. Or
- A recognised postgraduate diploma in a discipline appropriate to the proposed project, with a B- average. Or
- A professional qualification in a relevant discipline recognised as being equivalent to the above
And meet one of the English entry requirements;
- University Entrance Literacy: 8 credits at Level 2 or above in English or Māori (4 in Reading, 4 in Writing); or
- Evidence of English language proficiency as outlined in the NZQA Rules on the Unitec English Language Requirements for International Students Web-page.
Non-Academic requirements
- Students who did not complete their undergraduate degree with us will need to submit a CV and professional portfolio. In some cases, we may also require an academic discussion to learn more about your professional background.
Please note: Your portfolio file may be too large to upload directly to our enrolment portal. If that’s the case, please upload a Word or PDF document that includes a link to your portfolio (e.g. Google Drive, Dropbox, or another file-sharing platform).
Don’t meet these Academic requirements?
- If you don’t meet the academic criteria, our Bridging Education Programmes can help you qualify. Simply apply online, and we’ll discuss your next steps.
- If you don’t meet the above criteria, special or discretionary admission may apply; your eligibility will be determined at the interview.
About the provider
Unitec is New Zealand’s largest institute of technology offering a wide range of work-oriented programmes and short courses. We offer leading employment-focused education at our two campuses in Mt. Albert, and Waitākere. At Unitec we think the traditional view of spending hours in a lecture theatre is out-dated. And that's why we approach learning differently. With our unique combination of world-class theory and hands-on experience, you'll get the skills to meet the changing needs of employers. And because our tutors are industry-based, they know what it takes to make it in the real world. We offer a friendly and diverse learning environment with flexible study programmes, lots of support, and hands-on experience to build the skills you need for your career and your future.