Duration
Full-time: 3 years
Next start date
2024 Semester One – 26 February
2025 Semester One – 3 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. Two General Education courses will give you the chance to supplement your studies in subject areas of your choice.

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 or two General Education courses.

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:
    ARCHDES 102
    Name:
    Design 1
    Type:
    Compulsory core course
    Points:
    15 pts
  • Code:
    ARCHDRC 103
    Name:
    Architectural Media 1
    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
  • 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:
    ARCHTECH 108
    Name:
    Introduction to Sustainability and Technology
    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:
    Rise of the City
    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

2023 entry requirements

My highest qualification is from:

Secondary school qualifications

If you're joining us from secondary school, here's what you need to enter the programme.

You are guaranteed entry to this programme if you meet these requirements.

  1. First, you must meet the University Entrance (UE) standard.
  2. You must also meet the rank score for this programme. Not sure about your rank score? Use our rank score calculator.
  3. You may need to have studied certain subjects or achieved credits in particular subjects.
  4. Some programmes have additional requirements, such as an interview, portfolio or references.

Guaranteed rank score, subject and other requirements

If your rank score is slightly lower than the guaranteed score, we encourage you to still apply. We will consider your application if places are available. If you don’t meet the requirements, you may be able to apply under our Undergraduate Targeted Admission Schemes.

  • Qualification
    NCEA National Certificate of Educational Achievement
    Score required
    230
  • Qualification
    CIE Cambridge International Examinations
    Score required
    280
  • Qualification
    IB International Baccalaureate
    Score required
    31

Read more about entry requirements for New Zealand secondary school applicants.

Further requirements

Selection into the BAS programme will be based on the combined strength of your academic achievement, portfolio and written statement. All applicants are required to submit a portfolio of creative work and a one-page written statement via the portfolio portal system SlideRoom. Your statement should tell us a bit about yourself, and why you would like to study architecture at the University of Auckland. 

See the Portfolio Guidelines tab for detailed information on submitting a portfolio. 

Tertiary qualifications

If you've studied at a tertiary institution, here's what you need to enter the programme.

You can transfer from another tertiary institution, or another University of Auckland qualification, if you meet these requirements.

Guaranteed grade requirements

These are the grades required for guaranteed entry to this programme. If your grades are slightly lower, we encourage you to still apply. We will consider your application if places are available.

Further requirements

You must have completed one semester of successful bachelor degree study from a New Zealand tertiary institution, or one year of successful study as part of an acceptable sub-degree qualification from a New Zealand tertiary institution.

Selection into the BAS programme will be based on the combined strength of your academic achievement, portfolio and written statement. All applicants are required to submit a portfolio of creative work and a one-page written statement via the portfolio portal system SlideRoom. Your statement should tell us a bit about yourself, and why you would like to study architecture at the University of Auckland. 

See the Portfolio Guidelines tab for detailed information on submitting a portfolio.

Transfer of Credit - You can apply for transfer of credit for tertiary courses completed elsewhere as part of your Application for Admission. If you have completed study at another New Zealand University, get an estimate of the transfer credit you may be eligible for, using our Transfer Credit Calculator.

See information about prior tertiary study requirements

Other pathways to study

You could be eligible for another programme, or check out these alternative pathways:

My highest qualification is from this country or region:

Secondary school qualifications

If you're joining us from secondary school, here's what you need to enter the programme.

You need to have one of the following:

  • International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum total score of 24.
  • General Certificate of Education (GCE) Advanced Level. You must have completed a minimum of three A-Level subjects. 
  • Cambridge International Examinations (CIE). You must have completed a minimum of three A-level subjects.

GCE ‘A’ Level requirements apply to ‘A’ Level qualifications examined by bodies such as AQA, OCR, Edexcel, WJEC, CCEA and Pearson Education Limited taken outside of New Zealand.

Minimum grade, subject and other requirements

Minimum requirements listed here are the likely grades required and do not guarantee entry. We assess each application individually and applicants may require a higher grade to be offered a place. Your CIE/GCE A level score is calculated on the best three academic subjects and General Studies cannot be included.

  • Qualification
    IB International Baccalaureate Diploma
    Score required
    31
    Qualification
    IELTS Academic International English Language Testing System
    Score required
    6.0

    No bands less than 5.5.

    See alternative English language requirements

  • Qualification
    GCE A Level/CIE General Certificate of Education Advanced Level
    Score required
    BBB
    Qualification
    IELTS Academic International English Language Testing System
    Score required
    6.0

    No bands less than 5.5.

    See alternative English language requirements

Further requirements

Selection into the BAS programme will be based on the combined strength of your academic achievement, portfolio and written statement. All applicants are required to submit a portfolio of creative work and a one-page written statement via the portfolio portal system SlideRoom. Your statement should tell us a bit about yourself, and why you would like to study architecture at the University of Auckland.

See the Portfolio Guidelines tab for detailed information on submitting a portfolio. 

Tertiary qualifications

If you've studied at a tertiary institution, here's what you need to enter the programme.

You can transfer from another tertiary institution if you meet these requirements.

You need to have the following:

One year successful bachelor-degree level study at a recognised university (or similar institution) overseas. 

See information about prior tertiary study requirements

Guaranteed grade requirements

These are the grades required for guaranteed entry to this programme. If your grades are slightly lower, we encourage you to still apply. We will consider your application if places are available.

Further requirements

Selection into the BAS programme will be based on the combined strength of your academic achievement, portfolio and written statement. All applicants are required to submit a portfolio of creative work and a one-page written statement via the portfolio portal system SlideRoom. Your statement should tell us a bit about yourself, and why you would like to study architecture at the University of Auckland.

See the Portfolio Guidelines tab for detailed information on submitting a portfolio. 

Other pathways to study

You could be eligible for another programme, or check out these alternative pathways:

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

How much does a Bachelor of Architectural Studies cost per year?

2023 fees

Domestic students
NZ$8,795*
International students
NZ$45,698*

Fees are set in advance of each calendar year and will be updated on this website. Fees are inclusive of 15% GST, but do not include the Student Services Fee, course books, travel and health insurance, or living costs. Amounts shown are indicative only. In addition to the tuition fees, there is a Student Services Fee of $8.38 per point, estimated at $1,005.60 for full-time study (120 points). Fees will be confirmed upon completion of enrolment into courses.

*Please note: amounts shown are indicative and estimates only.

See course fees for each faculty

Find out about financial support information

Scholarships and awards

Find out about the scholarships you may be eligible for.

Student loans and allowances

Are you a New Zealand citizen or resident? You could be eligible for a student loan or allowance.

Cost of living

Get an idea of how much accommodation and general living in Auckland will cost.

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

Key dates

The Bachelor of Architectural Studies has one intake per year, with applications due 8 December. Study commences in Semester One of the following year.

Application closing dates

Semester One 2023
8 December 2022

Start dates

Here are the start dates for the programme.

Other important dates

See important dates for the academic year, including orientation, enrolment, study breaks, exams, and graduation.

How to apply

Applying for an undergraduate programme? Check out our step-by-step guide.

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

All applicants are required to submit a portfolio of creative work and a one-page written statement via the portfolio portal system SlideRoom. Your statement should tell us a bit about yourself, and why you would like to study Architecture at the University of Auckland. Please note: All portfolios will not be assessed until after the closing date of 8 December.

How to prepare your portfolio

There are many ways to approach the portfolio submission - it is an opportunity to express your creative individuality and show what makes you a great candidate for the programme. The following guidelines will help you prepare a portfolio that will meet the basic requirements; the rest is up to you.

Watch a video explaining the portfolio submission process.

  • Your portfolio must include between 12 and 15 pages of your own drawings, design and / or other creative works. We encourage portfolios that display a range of ability in various techniques and media. Please note that drawings prepared from photographs are discouraged.
  • You can choose any page size up to a maximum of A3 to present your work.
  • Each page may consist of either one or multiple images. We encourage portfolios that pay attention to the composition of the overall page should you use more than one image.
  • Please keep writing to a minimum. We do encourage descriptions using the SlideRoom function to provide details about each page: title, date of completion, and a short description that can include the technique and media used, why it relates to architecture or your intention for the work.
  • Each pdf file may contain only one page.

Your portfolio should:

  • Display evidence of a variety of techniques and media (i.e. different ways of drawing and making, both by hand and digitally).
  • Show your interest in buildings, spaces, interiors, groups of buildings (towns, cities), landscapes, people and designed objects such as pieces of furniture.
  • Show your understanding of spaces such as the construction of a space, or details such as materials and textures, light and colour.
  • Reflect your passion for architecture, public spaces, interiors and creativity.

You may include:

  • Material from visual arts, design and communications courses for school examinations, including painting, printmaking, sculpture, drawings and objects, and either exploratory studies or finished work. Please note, that portfolios that reflect an interest in space as well as other creative interests are preferred.
  • Evidence of creative activities in other fields, such as photographs of models you have made or of objects you have designed and/or built.
  • A photographic study of a subject of your choice, where you have a particular interest in the creative possibilities of the photographic medium (in your portfolio, use no more than three of the sheets for photographic studies).
  • Digital experiments (visual, audio, moving images, 3D modelling). 

Here are some sample portfolios to help you with your BAS application. 

Sample portfolio 1 
Sample portfolio 2 
Sample portfolio 3
Sample portfolio 4 
Sample portfolio 5
Sample portfolio 6
Sample portfolio 7

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

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
  • Urban designer

Some career paths may require further study.

Further study options

See all study options
Bachelor of Architectural Studies graduate, Ben Satterthwaite

Ben Satterthwaite

School of Architecture and Planning graduate Ben is busy working on large-scale aged-care and residential projects with JTB Architects Ltd.

Ben's story

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Experience the University

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A student's guide to studying a Bachelor of Architectural Studies

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