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Course details

Bachelor of Architectural Studies
NZQF Level 7

About the course

Add technical skills and knowledge to your creative abilities for a career in architectural design.

During the first two years of the programme we will take you through foundation studies in drawing, computer-aided design, building design and related sciences. You will also study building legislation and codes as they relate to architecture.

In your final year you will specialise in architectural technology with a focus on technological subjects such as:

  • Construction and Technology
  • Architectural Science
  • Computer aided design

You'll spend about 40 hours a week in practical workshops, lectures and undertaking your own independent research and practice. It's pretty much a 9-5 timetable. In your first year of study you can expect to spend about 20-25 hours per week in class and 15-20 hours in independent study.

Entry requirements

Academic requirements

University Entrance: NCEA Level 3 (60 credits at level 3 and 20 credits at level 2 or higher) which must include

14 credits at Level 3 in each of three approved subjects*

as well as

Literacy* - 10 credits at Level 2 or above, made up of 5 credits in reading, 5 credits in writing,

and

Numeracy* - 10 credits at Level 1 or above (specified achievement standards, or unit standards 26623, 26626, 26627)

or

New Zealand Certificate in Study and Career Preparation (Level 4) Ara Construction and Architectural Studies Pathway or equivalent.

Note: If you have undertaken examinations other than NCEA (e.g. International Baccalaureate, Cambridge Examination), Ara will assess your qualification for academic entry equivalency.

* NZQA approved subjects: see http://www.nzqa.govt.nz/qualifications-standards/awards/university-entrance/

Alternative requirements

Still want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements?

If you show that you have equivalent skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be able to gain alternative entry.

Note: The number of courses you have to complete for this qualification may be reduced where you have relevant credits from previous study, or evidence of similar learning or experience in the workplace. Contact Ara for advice.

Additional requirements

In addition, you need to:

Provide a portfolio demonstrating design, graphic and/or art skills equivalent to NCEA Level 3. Contact the School of Architectural Studies for details of the portfolio requirements.
English requirements

What if English is not my first Language?

If English is not your first language, we want to make sure that you will be successful in your chosen programme of study. Please provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives English Proficiency Outcomes Chart .

or

If you are a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete an Admission and Enrolment form and Ara will contact you regarding a free assessment.
If you are not a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent resident, book an IELTS, Pearson or other test through the Ara Examination Centre or in your home country.

IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS test report form and are valid for two years from the date of the test.

What if I have achieved NCEA Level 3 University Entrance?

You do not need to provide additional evidence of English Language skills.

About the provider

Ara Institute of Canterbury is recognised as one of New Zealand’s leading tertiary institutes. Specialising in applied, vocational and professional training, it offers more than 150 courses from foundation to postgraduate level. 

Ara caters to a diverse range of learners; from school leavers and career changers to professionals wanting to upskill and individuals seeking to re-enter the workforce.

All Ara students benefit from the Ara Advantage: relevant courses, taught by inspirational mentors in real-life learning environments. Almost every Ara programme includes work-integrated learning. Work placements, apprenticeships, industry-based projects and internships ensure students are work-ready when they graduate.

Across its six campuses, Ara’s dedicated tutors and non-academic staff support students throughout their study journey. A comprehensive range of student services - such as financial assistance, learning support, health and wellbeing services, accommodation, childcare and student events – contributes to the success of every student.

It also has six additional small community hubs which deliver free digital upskilling and personal development courses.

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