New Zealand Diploma in Architectural Technology

Summary

It takes a team of skilled people to take a building from plan to plot – and as an architectural technician (or technologist), your role will be pivotal.

Using structural principles, graphical skills, and the latest technologies, you’ll work collaboratively with architects to turn design concepts into the documentation needed to start construction.

The New Zealand Diploma in Architectural Technology (Level 6) prepares you for a career in this field –offering a great mix of building science, systems, and software and establishing relationships with various people, from team members to clients, tradies, suppliers, and local councils.

You’ll learn about the structural systems and architectural methods required to:

• Measure building sites correctly
• Create floor plans accurately
• Consider building limitations, including environmental impacts and sustainable construction methods.

It’s work that directly impacts the construction of people’s homes and large-scale commercial buildings.

Highlights

• Emphasis on real-world applications – in conjunction with our trade school, we facilitate building site visits (where possible.)
• Learn to master the latest technology – Gain exposure and experience with various construction software, including CAD (Computer Aided-Design) and BIM (Building Information Management).
• Nationally recognised qualification is endorsed by professional organisations – essential when applying for jobs.
• Well-established programme – with highly-experienced teaching staff and great graduate employment opportunities
• Take your studies further – cross-credits are available for the Bachelor of Construction and Bachelor of Architectural Studies.

Preparing for study

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

You’ll need the right equipment to meet health and safety requirements when visiting building sites. We recommend purchasing these items in advance:

• Safety boots (steel-capped shoes)
• High-visibility vest
• Hard hat

Career Options

• Architectural technician,
• Architectural Technologist,
• CAD technician,
• Design draftsperson,
• Design technician,
• Draughtsperson

Annual Tuition Fees

Domestic/NZ students

$8,300

(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

$26,415 (NZD) (approximate fees for 120 credits) Save upto $2,000 (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.

Downloads and resources

Programme regulations - New Zealand Diploma in Architectural Technology Order a personalised brochure Scholarships and awardsStudent LifeFor Māori studentsFor Pacific studentsFor International students