Bachelor
The UNSW Bachelor of Architectural Studies is a three-year degree when studied full-time. In this internationally recognised architecture course*, you'll learn how to design buildings and places to meet the needs and enhance the experiences of those who inhabit them.
The UNSW Bachelor of Architectural Studies is a three-year degree when studied full-time. In this internationally recognised architecture course*, you'll learn how to design buildings and places to meet the needs and enhance the experiences of those who inhabit them.
Through industry-aligned coursework and rich discussions, you'll recognise the practical, ethical and moral responsibilities in architecture. Hands-on projects will help you gain the vital skills to lead the way in a rapidly changing profession. You'll learn how architectural design shapes the sustainability, inclusivity and connectivity of our buildings and cities and impacts our culture and economy.
Stimulating design studio sessions and lectures will see you explore everything from architectural design to communications, history and theory, architectural science, sustainability and the environment and materials and construction.
The Bachelor of Architectural Studies is a powerful stepping stone on the road to becoming a registered architect. Most undergraduate architecture students go on to complete UNSW's Master of Architecture, which has professional accreditation from the NSW Architects Registration Board and Architects Accreditation Council of Australia (AACA).
*Top 40 in the world and 4th in Australia, QS World Rankings by Subject 2023.
Build your expertise
You'll complete various core courses, interdisciplinary built environment courses, electives and general education courses to develop your design skills and technical knowledge. You'll progress in stages to build your expertise and discover what will make you successful in a contemporary, multidisciplinary profession.
Develop your portfolio through experience-based learning
At UNSW, you'll be encouraged to learn by doing, with the support of experienced educators and practitioners. Make use of facilities like the Design Futures Lab, equipped with 3D Printers and laser cutters to create models of your building designs. Explore internship opportunities with our industry partners, or take a summer studio overseas in places like Tokyo or Vienna. You'll also receive an Adobe Creative Cloud subscription from the first day of your degree, along with access to a suite of advanced software, so you can learn the tools of the trade.
Fast track your career success
From day one, you can prioritise your career success within an environment that wants to see you thrive. UNSW has been recognised for producing the most employable graduates in Australia for five years in a row (AFR Top 100 Future Leaders Awards, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024). AFR Top 100 Future Leaders Award. We're also ranked #1 in Australia for career outcomes (AFR Best Universities Ranking, 2023).
Globally-renowned architecture programs
UNSW is ranked top 40 in the world and 4th in Australia for Architecture & Built Environment*. Confidently enter the workforce as one of Australia's most employable graduates** and access world-class alumni connections to help progress your career.
*QS World Subject Rankings 2023
**AFR Top 100 Future Leaders Award
Benefits from a future-focused education
Play your part in driving progress for all. In this program, you'll learn to solve tomorrow's problems through research-informed teaching and access to advanced technologies - all delivered in first-class facilities such as the Design Futures Lab and dedicated studios in the Anita B. Lawrence Centre.
Join a supportive, purpose-driven community
Be supported by our diverse, open and inclusive Arts, Design & Architecture community. As a student, you'll gain access to supportive student associations, such as the Women in Built Environment Student Society. You'll also benefit from strong industry links and partnerships, have the opportunity to take international courses and learn from world-class, award-winning architects.
At UNSW, we are committed to ensuring prospective students have all the information they need in order to make informed decisions about their study options.
To assist you in gaining a better understanding of how Admissions works at UNSW, we have provided you with a summary of ATAR offers and the student profile.
We hope this information will help you identify the degree that is right for you.
Domestic students are eligible to apply for the following volume of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) credits towards their UNSW degree that belong in the Faculty of Arts, Design & Architecture:
Considering your previous qualifications and their relevance to the chosen program at UNSW, the type and amount of credit you can apply for, as well as the duration of your remaining program, will then be determined.
Assessment by the Program Director is required for RPL applications toward Professional Accredited programs. Please note that eligibility for the full volume of RPL may be subject to accreditation requirements.
We offer a range of adjustment factor schemes that reward students for academic performance and extra-curricular achievements. These schemes also take into account a range of personal and educational disadvantages that may have affected your studies.
HSC Plus
This scheme rewards students who perform well in Year 12 subjects that are relevant to their preferred UNSW degree. You may be awarded up to five points.
Elite Athletes, Performers and Leaders (EAPL)
This program recognises achievements in the areas of sport, academia, leadership and music at an elite level. You may be eligible for up to five points.
Educational Access Scheme (EAS)
Factors such as illness, financial hardship, language difficulties or attending a particular school can mean you don't always get the best possible marks in Years 11 and 12. If one of these situations applies to you, submit an application for the Educational Access Scheme (EAS) via UAC. Eligible students can receive between 1 and 10 points towards their chosen UNSW degree.
Portfolio Entry
At UNSW School of Built Environment, we recognise your creative potential. With BE Portfolio Entry, you can submit a portfolio of your best creative work to showcase your talent and boost your chance of admission. Learn more about BE Portfolio Entry.
UNSW also offers a number of other alternative entry schemes to support you in boosting your admission opportunities. Explore your alternative entry options.
You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on your educational background and citizenship. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.
If you're completing an Australian Year 12 qualification (e.g. NSW HSC or equivalent), you do not need to provide anything extra to prove your proficiency. Your qualification will be used as evidence of your English proficiency.
If you do need to provide evidence of your English proficiency, this will be indicated in your application. You can prove this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:
If you need to improve your English skills before you start your degree, UNSW College's Academic English Programs are for you. The programs are suitable for various English levels and help you prepare for university studies and life in Australia.
| Qualifications | Direct entry requirement |
|---|---|
|
International ATAR
|
85
|
| UNSW Foundation Studies GPA |
7.5
|
|
Great Britain General Certificate of Education (GCE A levels)
|
11
All applicants must present a minimum of two Advanced Level (A2) subjects. Entry Scores are calculated from the best two, three, or four A2 Level subjects (excluding repeated subjects) using the following values: A*=6, A=5, B=4, C=3, D=2 and E=1. |
|
International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB)
|
31
Results based on scores required for entry into UNSW in 2019 and are only applicable if the Diploma has been completed. Students currently attempting the IB can apply directly to UNSW or through the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC). For more details, visit www.uac.edu.au |
|
Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) (after 2016)
|
1210
Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) based on the total of evidence-based reading and writing and mathematical test scores. Must be provided in conjunction with evidence of successful completion of senior secondary studies. |
We do not accept secondary qualifications from this country. We may accept tertiary study results, please contact us for more information.
Please contact us for direct entry requirements.
Typically, international students are eligible to apply for the following volume of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) credits towards their UNSW degree that belong in the Faculty of Arts, Design & Architecture:
Generally, International students must ensure that their prior qualifications are assessed and deemed relevant to the program they intend to pursue. Additionally, they are required to maintain a full-time study load as part of the conditions for their Confirmation of Enrolment.
If you do not meet the requirements for direct entry into your chosen degree, you may be eligible for a pathway program with UNSW College. UNSW College provides alternative entry options using university-approved content so that you can start your UNSW journey with confidence.
You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on whether you are from an English-speaking background or non-English speaking background. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.
If English is not your first language, you'll need to provide proof of your English proficiency before you can be given an offer to study at UNSW. You can do this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:
If you need to improve your English skills before you start your degree, UNSW College's Academic English Programs are for you. The programs are suitable for various English levels and help you prepare for university studies and life in Australia.
Studying at UNSW is your chance to shape the culture of a place, its people, and their futures - and see your vision come to life beyond just a blueprint.
As one of Australia's top Bachelor of Architecture degrees, this program will equip you with the practical and theoretical skills you need to thrive throughout your exciting architectural career. Create with design and craft the future you want. Your qualifications will give you a unique advantage in the job market and allow you to explore various positions.
Architect
Designer
Architectural technician
Interior design architect
Starting your own architecture practice
Specialist architect in areas such as housing
Building scientist
Environmental consultant
Architect within multidisciplinary design practices
Roles within large commercial architectural firms
Architectural critic, academic or researcher
The Bachelor of Architectural Studies is an undergraduate pathway to the professionally accredited postgraduate Master of Architecture, which has professional recognition from the NSW Architects Registration Board and Architects Accreditation Council of Australia (AACA). To become a registered architect, you must also complete two years of professional work experience and undertake the professional practice exam.