Architecture,MC-ARCH

Overview

The accredited Master of Architecture program, when combined with relevant professional experience and successful completion of the Architectural Practice Examination, fulfils one of the pathways to register as an architect in Australia.

In the program you will study architectural history, theory, research, management and law, and undertake professional practice.

This is a hands-on course that combines the understandings of design, science, technology, history and culture to ensure you graduate with a well-rounded set of skills. You’ll also undertake a major self-directed architectural thesis project in a specialised area of interest, to demonstrate research skills and gain practical experience.

Students who complete the master degree to a high standard can apply for doctoral-level studies.

Curtin University is committed to providing a world-class learning experience to our students. We are the highest-ranked university in Western Australia for architecture and the built environment (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2025).

What you'll learn

• demonstrate an understanding of the profession of architecture, its theoretical underpinnings and ways of thinking; apply specific discipline knowledge contained within the streams of Architectural Design, Professional Practice and Architectural Culture.
• think critically, creatively and reflectively in order to analyse and understand the specific needs of various parties involved in architecture in order to generate and create innovative solutions.
• conduct appropriate scholarly and professional research to access and analyse the diverse information needed to make informed, strategic design decisions.
• communicate information and ideas to diverse audience through visual, verbal and written communication techniques.
• recognise and understand the principles of a range of appropriate technologies and their suitable application within the profession of architecture.
• sustain intellectual curiosity that constantly strives, through self-directed learning, for innovation within the profession of architecture.
• synthesise a range of local, national and international issues and perspectives which influence the creation and practice of architecture.
• understand and value cultural and physical diversity and appreciate its significance in the creation of architecture.
• demonstrate a professional and ethical approach in the creation of architecture; work independently and in teams; create knowledge in a scholarly, creative and/or professional context through critical inquiry, research and project development.

Entry requirements

English requirements

Curtin requires all applicants to demonstrate proficiency in English. Specific English requirements for this course are outlined in the IELTS table below.

You may demonstrate English proficiency using the following tests and qualifications.

Have your supporting documents to hand, and ensure they meet our guidelines. The documents may include certified copies of your qualifications, English language proficiency documents and supplementary forms for certain courses.

If your documents are not issued in English, an official translation from a recognised translation service must be provided.

Recognised translation services

• National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters (NAATI) accredited translator in Australia
• The Awarding institution
• A Notary Public Office
• The official Government body
• An official and accredited translator*

*Official translations are subject to review.

If you have undertaken previous study or work that matches the content of some of your Curtin course units, you may be able to obtain credit for recognised learning, which exempts you from studying those units.

You can apply direct online through our Applicant Portal. You can access the Applicant Portal by:

1. Navigating to the relevant course page
2. Click ‘Apply now’
3. When the pop-up window appears, select “Apply directly to Curtin University”.

If you want to package your course with a Curtin English course, you can submit your application with your course application documents to streamline the process.

If your application is successful, you will receive an offer that you will need to accept or reject.

If you accept your offer, you will receive a Confirmation of Enrolment ­– a document from Curtin that details your course, how long you will be studying the course, and the tuition fees. This document can be used for acquiring a student visa.

Apply to the Australian government for your student visa. Gaining a student visa will allow you to participate in full-time study in Australia and work up to 40 hours in a fortnight. If you’re under 18 years of age, you must have approved accommodation and welfare arrangements in place before a visa can be issued.

See our pre-departure resources for helpful information regarding your move to Perth.