Programme details

Master of Architecture (Professional) – MArch(Prof)

Achieve license as an architect through advanced postgraduate studies and contribute to shaping our built environment.

Course description

Embark on the path to becoming a registered architect in New Zealand by pursuing the Master of Architecture (Professional). This program will expand your knowledge, refine your design skills, foster critical and creative thinking abilities, and deepen your understanding of the professional responsibilities of an architect.

The curriculum blends structured coursework with a written thesis or research portfolio, focusing on self-directed, design-driven research. Through this combination, you will develop a portfolio of design projects showcasing mastery in your chosen area of specialization.

Upon completion, you will be equipped with the expertise and practical experience needed to excel in the field of architecture and pursue registration as a professional architect.

Professional Accreditation

Earning your Master of Architecture (Professional) [MArch(Prof)] from Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington ensures that your degree is recognized by the New Zealand Registered Architects Board (NZRAB), meeting the academic requirements for registration to practice as an architect. After completing the degree, you will need two to three years of practical experience before applying for registration, at which point the Board will assess your professional competence.

Additionally, you will meet the academic requirements for professional registration with the New Zealand Institute of Architects (NZIA).

Our MArch(Prof) not only paves the way for registration as an architect in New Zealand but also allows you, as a Registered Architect, to be eligible for registration or licensure in Australia and certain jurisdictions in the United States. Moreover, you will have the opportunity to become a member of the New Zealand Institute of Architects, the leading professional body for architects in the country.

Immigration benefits

This course qualifies for 5 points if applying for residency under the Skilled Migrant Category.

This course may qualify for the following visa rights:
In-study work rights
Partner visitor rights
Partner work rights
Post-study work rights

Career Prospects

Upon graduation, you will be well-prepared for a career in mainstream architecture, whether in private practice or within a government organization.

Furthermore, your diverse skill set will be applicable to various related professions, offering opportunities beyond traditional architectural practice. These may encompass roles such as urban planner or urban designer, interior designer, stage or movie set designer, property developer, project manager, educator or researcher, or positions in construction law.

Entry requirements

A Bachelor of Architectural Studies in Architecture or Graduate Diploma in Designed Environments in Architecture from this university, or an approved alternative qualification. See ‘Important information’ below

To be accepted by the head of the school or the Associate Dean (Teaching, Learning and Students) as being capable of proceeding with the proposed course of study

English Language requirement (To be accepted into this programme you will need one of the following):
– IELTS (Academic): Minimum overall score of 6.5, with no sub-score below 6.0
– TOEFL (Internet-based test): Minimum score of 90, with at least 20 in writing
– Pearson Test of English: Minimum score of 58, with a ‘Communicative’ score of no less than 50
– EAP: Minimum final scores of 4, 4, 5, 5
– Cambridge English Qualifications: C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency with a score of 176 or higher, with each skill score no less than 169
– New Zealand Certificates in English Language (NZCEL): Level 5 (Academic)
– NZAPA: English New Zealand Accredited Pathway Assessment Level 3, with no skill lower than Level 2

Important information
The entry requirement of a BAS or GDipDE may be waived by the Associate Dean if you have appropriate professional or academic experience.
If you want to enrol in this programme but don’t meet some of the entry requirements, you should contact the programme director or administrator to discuss your options.