Master of Architecture
Course details
| NZQF Level | 9 |
|---|
About the course
Are you currently practising in the field of architecture, landscape architecture or design, or do you have an architecture degree? The Master of Architecture is a qualification for people who have practised in one of these areas and want to advance their skills and explore their area of interest. In this master by project you’ll advance your knowledge of current design techniques, and learn to present your work effectively to interdisciplinary audiences. You will improve your understanding of how to look at architecture sites and briefs from different angles, and use techniques to construct interesting and unique responses.
The key outcome of this programme is a master level project that demonstrates your specialised skill and/or knowledge in your area of chosen expertise. This is not an accredited degree to become a registered architect – for this you’ll need to complete the Master of Architecture (Professional).
Highlights
- Enables practising architects to study part-time, learn new techniques, sharpen their design skills and keep abreast of current theory
- Focus on practical projects: the degree is “by project”, which means that you undertake a project based on an aspect of your architecture practice to date
- No coursework
- Collaborative approach: the Master of Architecture, together with the Master of Landscape Architecture, is part of a suite of design programmes at Unitec. Students in both programmes get together for seminars and workshops in order to foster collaboration, new ideas and new approaches to interdisciplinary practice.
- Interaction with international academics and practitioners
Seminars and workshops
In Semester One, you’ll take part in a seminar series that dives into current design theory and practice. These sessions will help you develop your research question and draft a research proposal. You’ll then present your draft proposal at a workshop, where you’ll receive valuable feedback from your peers, tutors, and industry experts.
Once your proposal is approved, you’ll join a series of workshops where you’ll present your ongoing work for critique and evaluation by invited architects, landscape architects, and designers. These workshops are designed to push you beyond conventional ideas, trends, and preconceptions, encouraging innovative thinking.
Throughout the year, you’ll also have opportunities to attend sessions focused on discussing and refining your project.
Meet with us
Students who didn’t study their undergraduate degree with us will need to meet with an academic to discuss their professional background, which may require a review of your academic and/or professional portfolio.
Qualification
Once you’ve successfully completed this programme you’ll receive the qualification: Master of Architecture.
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
- Architecture lecturer (senior level)
- Architecture practitioner (senior level)
Annual Tuition Fees
Domestic/NZ students
$8,600 (For 120 credits)
(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.
A design for success
Downloads and resources
Programme regulations - Master of Architecture 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:
- An undergraduate degree in a discipline relevant to your proposed programme of study, with an average grade of B- or higher in all Level 7 courses. Or
- A postgraduate diploma in a discipline relevant to your proposed programme of study, with an average grade of B- or higher
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.