Master of Architecture

Summary

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

$9,100 (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](https://www.unitec.ac.nz...