Study Architecture

Quietly change the world.

Architecture at the University of Newcastle is different. Our program is grounded and future-focused, shaping students who care for Country, who are motivated by social and ecological issues, and who explore their potential as agents for change.

Our students develop a broad range of skills actively through design projects. In our applied learning framework, you will spend most of your time—more than other NSW programs—in studio, with options for undertaking an array of briefs as well as exciting, special elective projects. We are committed to developing the best learning experience for our unique student cohort and working collectively to create a vibrant and engaged design community that centres on our Architectural Design Studio, Workshop, and Makerspace.

We are focused on creating inquisitive, agile, and skilled graduates, confident to play key roles in transforming the architectural field you will enter. To reflect the diverse forms of practice architects are now engaged in, our program is designed to help you become the architect you want to be. You will participate in a range of projects, both guided and self-directed, with the option to pursue a year-long, final project of your own conception.

Why study with us?

  • Studio-based learning – complete the most studio-based Master of Architecture degree in Australia.
  • 24-hour studio access – inhabit your own space in some of Australia's finest 24-hour access architecture studios.
  • Built-in flexibility – with student led coursework, self-directed studio groups, and the ability to start and finish your programs mid-year.
  • Learn from global leaders in the field – with regular presentations from visiting architects and experts.
  • Study with Australia’s top research institute for architecture – the University of Newcastle named Australia’s top research institute for architecture (The Australian’s 2019 Research magazine)
  • We produce high quality, award winning graduates – such as Paris Perry (MADE by the Opera House scholarship winner) and Tualagi Nokise (2022 Architects Medallion winner)
  • Join a supportive community – of staff and students keen to help you succeed.
  • Save up to 70% with a commonwealth-supported place
  • 16.8% Projected employment growth by 2026* (Labourmarketinsights.gov.au)
  • High demand – 4400 new Architects and Landscape Architects needed by 2026 (Labourmarketinsights.gov.au)

New Admission Pathway

For South China Agricultural University students from 2019

Learn more

World Top 150 ? for Architecture and the Built Environment
90% ? employed full time within four months of graduating
$1827 Median Weekly Income ? for Architects and Landscape Architects before tax

Student work showcase

What you will study

Keeping pace with progressive architecture schools around the world, the University of Newcastle's Master of Architecture is studio-based; dedicated to projects that allow for engaged, integrated and applied forms of architectural practice. You’ll spend more time in the studio than you would at any other University in NSW.

To reflect the diverse forms of practice architects are now engaged in through their working lives, our program is designed to help you become the architect you want to be. You will participate in a range of projects, both guided and self-directed.

During each Architecture Studio course you will explore the core information and resources that explain the conditions of the project as site, landscape and place; the technical information required for its development, detail and resolution; together with the historical and theoretical knowledge that underpins architectural design.

You will have the opportunity to engage in live projects with NSW Urban Growth and local government; understand and work within the real architectural projects of our cities and regions.

The Studio provides the learning environment where the design process and the proposition are discussed with your teachers; academics, architects, experts, consultants and stakeholders.

You’ll have the creative freedom to determine how you respond to the challenges of each studio project. Working on architectural projects that you shape yourself puts you in control of your own portfolio, and your career that follows.

Check out the spaces you'll have access to while you study with us!

There are now two opportunities to undertake elective courses within the program. You can broaden your skills and knowledge, take the opportunity to undertake a study tour, or get involved in working laboratories and other forms of practice-based research.

Our Open Lecture Series showcases a wide range of projects, global trends and practice styles from local, national and international industry experts within the Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Industrial Design, and Construction Management professions.

2024 Program Handbook

Refer to the program handbook for details of the complete program structure, course requirements and availability.

View program handbook

My Degree Planner

Use our degree planner to see what your study journey through the Master of Architecture might look like.

Prospective student planner Current student planner

Career

Career opportunities

The University of Newcastle’s Master of Architecture is well regarded by industry for its emphasis on preparing students for the working reality of practicing architecture.

Providing you with a range of architectural skills and knowledge, upon successful completion of this advanced program you can look forward to a diverse range of career opportunities in areas including:

  • Architectural practice
  • Advocacy and community work
  • Government and non-government agencies
  • Research
  • Construction
  • Project management
  • Property development
  • Town planning
  • Infrastructure planning
  • Overseas aid

Career examples include:

  • Architect
  • Construction Manager
  • Infrastructure Planner
  • Overseas Aid Worker
  • Private and Commercial Practice
  • Project Manager
  • Property Developer
  • Researcher
  • Town Planner

Professional recognition

The Master of Architecture is recognised for registration by the Australian Institute of Architects, the Architects Accreditation Council of Australia, state Architects Boards (in NSW, the NSW Architects Registration Board), the Board of Architects Malaysia and the Royal Institute of British Architects.

This program, along with a minimum of two years professional experience and subject to passing a professional practice exam conducted by the relevant State Architects Board, leads to registration as an architect.

Application info

Applying for Master of Architecture

Ok, great, let's go!

Applications to study are now open. Submit your application now..

Apply to study in Australia

Both students and education agents can submit applications online. This is our preferred way of application. You can save your application after you have started, and come back to it later.

Before you get started

To ensure that the process goes smoothly for you, you should complete the following steps before applying:

  1. Review the program that you wish to apply for. Note the admission criteria, admission instructions, requirements & structure and any additional information listed.
  2. Review the program fees and costs.
  3. Check whether your postgraduate program has a Semester or a Trimester closing date. Please view the application closing date.
  4. If you are from a non-English-speaking background, you need to satisfy the University's English language requirements and ensure that you can provide evidence of your English proficiency if required.

You will be considered for entry based on criteria such as your undergraduate studies and/or equivalent prior learning and/or relevant work experience.

Postgraduate application process

Other things to consider

Make sure you double check the special entry requirements, assumed knowledge or recommended studies for the degree:

Admission to this program is available via the direct application to UON

Applicants must have successfully completed a Bachelor of Design (Architecture) program, or approved equivalent in order to apply for entry.

Mid-year entry is now available in this program.

You can look at Uni prep for options to brush up on knowledge before you start.

View University key dates