Duration
Full-time: 3 years
Next start date
2026 Semester One – 2 March
2027 Semester One – 1 March
Available locations
City
Points
360
Programme type
Undergraduate

Programme overview

The BAS introduces you to the fundamental aspects of architecture. Through studio courses, real world case studies and future-based speculation projects, you will develop your design skills and creative practice. You will have access to software used in the industry as well as fully-equipped workshops to bring your concepts to life.

To become a professional architect, you require the Master of Architecture (Professional); or one of our associated combined masters programmes. This is  usually undertaken immediately following the BAS programme.  

Programme structure

In your first year, you’ll be introduced to design through drawing and making, including both hand and digital techniques. You’ll also be introduced to the history and theory of architecture, sustainable design and materiality. You’ll have the chance to explore construction principles, which we apply in studio courses and inside our workshops.

In second year and beyond, you’ll learn more about architectural design, media, materials and sustainable practice. You’ll also expand your understanding of historical precedent and theories of architecture, and be introduced to project management (i.e., getting buildings built).

Most students need to take one General Education course.

Students should also be aware of the University’s Academic English Language Requirement.

For all official programme information, including regulations about entry, enrolment, fees, examinations, and requirements for degrees, diplomas and certificates, see the University Calendar.

Sample programme structure

Year 1 120 points

  • Code:
    BLTENV 101
    Name:
    People, Place and Design Studio
    Type:
    Compulsory core course
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Code:
    BLTENV 102
    Name:
    Environmental and Social Justice
    Type:
    Compulsory core course
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Code:
    BLTENV 103
    Name:
    Media for Spatial Practices
    Type:
    Compulsory core course
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Code:
    WTRENG 100
    Name:
    Waipapa Taumata Rau
    Type:
    Core course
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Code:
    ARCHDES 103
    Name:
    Design 2
    Type:
    Compulsory core course
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Code:
    ARCHDRC 104
    Name:
    Architectural Media 2
    Type:
    Compulsory core course
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Code:
    ARCHHTC 102
    Name:
    Modern Architecture and Urbanism
    Type:
    Compulsory core course
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Name:
    General Education course
    Type:
    General Education course
    Points:
    15 pts

Year 2 120 points

  • Code:
    ARCHDES 200
    Name:
    Design 3
    Type:
    Compulsory core course
    Points:
    30 pts
  • Code:
    ARCHDRC 203
    Name:
    Architectural Media 3
    Type:
    Compulsory core course
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Code:
    ARCHTECH 207
    Name:
    Design Technology 1
    Type:
    Compulsory core course
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Code:
    ARCHDES 201
    Name:
    Design 4
    Type:
    Compulsory core course
    Points:
    30 pts
  • Code:
    ARCHHTC 237
    Name:
    Postmodern and Contemporary Architecture and Urbanism
    Type:
    Compulsory core course
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Code:
    ARCHTECH 210
    Name:
    Environmental Design 1
    Type:
    Compulsory core course
    Points:
    15 pts

Year 3 120 points

  • Code:
    ARCHDES 300
    Name:
    Design 5
    Type:
    Compulsory core course
    Points:
    30 pts
  • Code:
    ARCHHTC 341
    Name:
    Worlds of Architecture
    Type:
    Compulsory core course
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Code:
    ARCHTECH 314
    Name:
    Environmental Design 2
    Type:
    Compulsory core course
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Code:
    ARCHDES 301
    Name:
    Design 6
    Type:
    Compulsory core course
    Points:
    30 pts
  • Code:
    ARCHPRM 305
    Name:
    Professional Studies 1
    Type:
    Compulsory core course
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Code:
    ARCHTECH 315
    Name:
    Design Technology 2
    Type:
    Compulsory core course
    Points:
    15 pts

Where could this programme take you?

Becoming a practising architect is a common outcome for BAS graduates once registered. However, you can also contribute to the industry as a designer, project manager or consultant, or work in client liaison. Graduates have also been known to utilise their creative thinking in other fields, such as film or web design.

Jobs related to this programme

  • Architect (following successful completion of MArch(Prof) or one of the associated combined masters degrees and professional registration)
  • Architectural historian or writer
  • Building industry consultant
  • Digital design professional
  • Heritage or cultural consultant
  • Interior designer
  • Project manager

Some career paths may require further study.

Further study options

See all study options

Student career planning service

Once you become a student at the University, you can get help with planning and developing your career from Career Development and Employability Services.

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