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HE Courses
Bachelor of Applied Architecture
Apply Now Call 1300 635 276

Bachelor of Applied Architecture

VTAC Code: HEBAA CRICOS: 081679D VTAC Number: Epping 6900221522
Overview Career Pathways Course details Fees & Costs Requirements Next Steps

Overview

Campus

Epping

Campus

Epping

Duration

3 years full time / 6 years part time

Duration

3 years

Requirements

Click here to see entry requirements

Requirements

Click here to see entry requirements

Next Intake

February, July

Next Intake

February

Reshape the world around us with a Bachelor of Applied Architecture

Dive into the fundamentals of Architectural design, technology and practice, while blending foundational theory with real-world skills.

Designed to deliver the essential skills required by students of architecture at undergraduate level, this course opens the door to careers in Building Design, Planning, Technical Architectural Support and many more opportunities. After graduating, you’ll also be perfectly placed to study a master's degree in architecture to pursue a career as an Architect.

Our course will teach you to use a range of architectural software and create innovative design solutions that respond to client briefs, the principles of environmental sustainability, and to the natural and built environments.

Career Pathways

Where will the Bachelor of Applied Architecture take me?

Graduates of the Bachelor of Applied Architecture may work for architects, building designers and interior designers and related professions.

To qualify as an architect graduates must also complete a masters of Architecture degree as well as meet the requirements of the state architects registration board.

  • Building Design Draftsperson
  • Building Design Assistant
  • Architect Assistant
  • Building Planner
  • Architectural Technician
  • Building Designer
  • Architect (on completion of Master of Architecture)

Study Pathways

On successful completion of the Bachelor of Applied Architecture you may be eligible for entry into postgraduate Master of Architecture study at other institutions.

BBE End of Year Exhibition 2022

A person designing a wooden prototype of a building

This online exhibition show cases the best architectural design work from students of the Bachelor of Built Environment at Melbourne Polytechnic.

Visit the online exhibition

Course Details

Delivery methods

Semester 2 commencement available to applicants with credit. Enquire now to find out more.

Course delivery continues at Melbourne Polytechnic during the challenges of the coronavirus (COVID-19) situation the world is facing right now. Our top priority remains the health, safety and well-being of our community.

Class Schedule

Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Semester 2 commencement available to applicants with credit. Enquire now to find out more.

Assessment Methods

Assessment methods will include a blend of design presentations ('pin-ups' and oral presentations), model making, portfolios, essays, reports, reflective journals, case studies and analyses, projects, tests and exams.

Regular attendance and class participation is a critical part of architectural education.

Units of Study

Credit points are a basic measure of student workload. All subjects are given a credit point value. Most subjects at Melbourne Polytechnic are 12 credit points. A normal full-time annual workload is 96 credit points. The academic year is divided into two main semesters; full-time students usually enrol in 48 credit points each semester, part-time students usually enrol in 24 credit points each semester or less.

Code Subject Elective Description Year Semester
ARC111 Architectural Design 1 Core Subject content and structure:
Architectural Design 1 introduces you to the basics of design through a series of introductory design exercises. You will learn to communicate design ideas through a variety of media, in individual and group projects. You will explore form, mass, light and the fundamentals of human occupation of physical spaces and develop a folio of design work over the semester. Above all, Architectural Design 1 aims to engage your imagination and encourage the exploration of architecture as an art form.
At completion of this subject, students will be able to:
  1. Develop a concept for a design.
  2. Investigate precedents in design.
  3. Communicate design ideas.
 1 1
ARC121 Architectural Design 2 Core Subject content and structure:
Architectural Design 2 is taught with other design levels as part of a vertically integrated design studio. It builds on the skills you acquired in Architectural Design 1 and expands the scope of your design folio. You will work in groups on introductory exercises, exploring precedents and the selected construction site. You will then develop an individual project design in response to an architectural brief, under the guidance of tutors and external critics. The design will incorporate passive solar design principles.
At completion of this subject, students will be able to:
  1. Develop a concept in response to an architectural design brief.
  2. Incorporate ideas from historical precedents and contemporary practice into an architectural design.
  3. Conduct a site analysis for a project design.
  4. Present design ideas using visual media.
  5. Compile a folio of drawings, images and research notes that inform an architectural design response.
  6. Incorporate elements of passive solar design to a design brief.
 1 1
ARC112 Architectural Technology 1 Core Subject content and structure:
This unit introduces you to the fundamentals of building technology. Using observation, experimentation, analysis and review, you will examine examples and applications in both natural and artificial structures. Alternative structural systems are studied in relation to the design process, and you will develop an understanding of how elements of the built form come together. Ideas relating to shelter and the properties of materials are developed through research and activity-based exercises.
At completion of this subject, students will be able to:
  1. Identify the material properties that underpin the form and fabric of natural and built environments.
  2. Identify basic construction processes and use of materials.
  3. Investigate basic structural elements and components used in built environments.
  4. Outline essential services used in the built environment.
  5. Identify the basic regulatory frameworks under which buildings are constructed.
  6. Compile a folio of observations and ideas related to construction.
 1 1
ARC113 Architectural Communications 1 Core Subject content and structure:
Architectural Communications 1 introduces you to the fundamentals of architectural communication and representation methods. Visual modes of communication such as drawing and model making are learned and practiced using digital and non-digital methods. You will establish a folio of work, which will be developed into a work ready professional folio in subsequent semesters.
At completion of this subject, students will be able to:
  1. Review drawing conventions and standards.
  2. Produce manual and digital sketches and orthogonal drawings.
  3. Construct developmental design models.
  4. Document a single room building.
  5. Compile a folio of work created in the subject.
 1 1
ARC322 Architectural Practice Core Subject content and structure:
Architectural Practice prepares you to be work ready through a Work Integrated Learning (WIL) program. You will be placed in architectural offices to learn about professional practice, apply the architectural skills you acquired during the course and learn important new skills in a workplace environment. To support transition into employment, you will also develop a professional resume and portfolio, practice interview techniques and learn routine office documentation and communication.
At completion of this subject, students will be able to:
  1. Interpret estimating and costing documents.
  2. Conduct meetings and interviews.
  3. Examine codes of professional conduct.
  4. Prepare a resume and portfolio.
  5. Apply architectural skills and knowledge to a workplace environment.
  6. Critically reflect on learning in a workplace environment.
1 1
ARC122 Architectural Technology 2 Core Subject content and structure:
Architectural Technology 2 consolidates the principles of architectural technology gained in first semester. Through research and analysis, you will examine appropriate and relevant construction systems and materials for various site contexts relating to ‘dwellings’. You will encounter service installation principles, codes and practices and apply this knowledge in the context of the ‘dwelling’. Domestic construction techniques and knowledge in relation to structural mechanics and material properties are developed in this subject.
At completion of this subject, students will be able to:
  1. Investigate materials used in a range of building and construction types.
  2. Interpret construction and manufacturing processes and the environmental implications of their use.
  3. Identify structural elements and components used in residential construction systems.
  4. Analyse services commonly used in residential built environments.
  5. Review the basic regulatory frameworks under which residential buildings are constructed.
  6. Compile a folio of building and construction related data.
 1 2
ARC123 Architectural Communications 2 Core Subject content and structure:
Architectural Communications 2 builds on the drawing and presentation skills you learned in Architectural Communications 1. You will use Building Information Modelling (BIM) software to document a simple architectural project and prepare a town planning application. You will also expand on the folio work you established in Architectural Communications 1.
At completion of this subject, students will be able to:
  1. Create BIM drawings for an architectural design.
  2. Document a multi-room, multi-level building.
  3. Perform routine oral and written stakeholder communication.
  4. Produce a set of town planning documents.
  5. Compile a folio of work created in the subject.
 1 2
ARC211 Architectural Design 3 Core Subject content and structure:
Architectural Design 3 is the second vertically integrated design studio. You will work in mixed level groups on introductory exercises and then develop an individual project design in response to an architectural brief, under the guidance of tutors and external critics. Student projects in Architectural Design 3 consider precedents, the surrounding context and incorporate Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) principles, and designs are developed to a level of resolution that responds to the scale of the project. Architectural Design 3 will expand on the design folio you have built up in earlier semesters.
At completion of this subject, students will be able to:
  1. Develop a concept that responds to the core requirements of an architectural design brief.
  2. Provide a level of design resolution appropriate to the scale of the project.
  3. Analyse the wider physical context and historical and cultural significance of a project site.
  4. Present design work to a panel of critics, explaining design ideas using visual media.
  5. Compile a folio of drawings, images and research notes that inform architectural and structural design responses.
  6. Incorporate passive and active environmental control systems into a project design.
 2 1
ARC221 Architectural Design 4 Core Subject content and structure:
Architectural Design 4 is the fourth of the vertically integrated design studios.You will work in mixed level groups on introductory exercises and then individually develop a basic design concept and architectural project in response to a brief, guided by the advice of tutors and external critics. Student projects in Architectural Design 4 critically examine the project brief, respond creatively to site and context, and adopt active and passive environmentally sustainable design (ESD) principles. Designs demonstrate an awareness of architectural precedent and are developed to a level of design resolution that responds to the scale of the project. Architectural Design 4 will expand on the design folio you have built up in earlier semesters.
At completion of this subject, students will be able to:
  1. Develop a concept that responds to the core requirements of an architectural design brief.
  2. Provide a level of design resolution appropriate to the scale of the project.
  3. Integrate design elements appropriate to the relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces.
  4. Present design work to a panel of critics, explaining design ideas using visual media.
  5. Compile a folio of drawings, images and research notes that inform architectural and structural design responses.
  6. Incorporate passive and active environmental control systems into a project design.
 2 1
ARC212 Architectural Technology 3 Core Subject content and structure:
In this subject students will examine the benefit of using repetitious and pre-fabricated elements and components. The selection and installation of services relevant to community living and the integration of active sustainable systems are explored through research, site visits and analysis. You will also investigate appropriate and relevant construction systems and materials for various site contexts relating to community living.
At completion of this subject, students will be able to:
  1. Analyse materials used in a range of building and construction types and their environmental implications.
  2. Analyse construction and manufacturing processes applied to building designs..
  3. Analyse structural elements and components used in non-residential buildings.
  4. Evaluate passive and active services commonly used in non-residential buildings.
  5. Apply the basic regulatory frameworks to a building design.
  6. Compile a folio of research into environmental strategies and solutions.
 2 1
ARC213 History of Architecture Core Subject content and structure:
This subject introduces you to the history and theory of Western architecture and its influence and impact on Australian and Melbourne Architecture. You will explore the influence of historical forces on architecture through specific buildings and the work of key architects. You will also engage with influences such as construction technology and building materials, industry, politics, and religion.
At completion of this subject, students will be able to:
  1. Investigate major phases of Western architectural history, and the historical context in which these changes appeared.
  2. Analyse the planning, structure and form of significant buildings.
  3. Identify the architectural period, style and typological context of significant buildings from Australia and around the world.
  4. Interpret architectural terms that describe and define various building systems and elements in architectural practice.
 2 1
ARC222 Architectural Technology 4 Core Subject content and structure:
Further expanding on the content of Architectural Technology 3, you will encounter building methods and technologies suitable for larger and more complex public buildings. Wide-span construction systems, the uses of pre-cast and in-situ concrete, alternative building materials and specific services requirements are major components of this subject, and you will gain firsthand experience of these processes through observational site visits.
At completion of this subject, students will be able to:
  1. Select materials for use in complex buildings.
  2. Implement a broad range of sustainable construction practices in response to the site constraints of a design brief.
  3. Select appropriate structural systems for use in large buildings.
  4. Select appropriate services for the efficient functioning of large buildings.
  5. Apply regulatory frameworks applicable to a large building.
  6. Present research in response to an element of a design brief.
2 2
ARC223 History of Modern Architecture Core Subject content and structure:
History of Modern Architecture explores ideas, movements and key individuals in the development of architecture in the 19th and 20th centuries against the dramatic and unprecedented social, political, scientific and technological changes of the past two centuries. In contrast to the chronological approach adopted in BAA213 History of Architecture, History of Modern Architecture takes a thematic approach to the subject matter and extends your academic research and writing skills.
At completion of this subject, students will be able to:
  1. Review major phases, movements, ideas and figures in modern architecture.
  2. Evaluate major influences and cultural contexts on architecture from the industrial revolution to the present day.
  3. Analyse the stylistic influences and typological contexts of significant buildings from around the world.
  4. Assess the development of materials and construction techniques from the industrial revolution to the present day.
 2 2
ARC311 Architectural Design 5 Core Subject content and structure:
Architectural Design 5 is the fourth vertically integrated design studio and is taught with other design studio levels. Students work in mixed level groups on introductory exercises. Over the semester, you will develop an individual project and design concept, in response to a brief and input from tutors and external critics. Projects in Architectural Design 5 consider architectural composition, context integration, precedents and environmentally sustainable design (ESD) principles, and apply a level of design resolution which considers the project scale. In Architectural Design 5 you will prepare a ‘work ready’ design portfolio ahead of a Work Integrated Learning (WIL) placement.
At completion of this subject, students will be able to:
  1. Develop a concept that responds to all requirements of an architectural design brief and is consistent with architectural design theory.
  2. Provide a level of design resolution appropriate to the scale of the project.
  3. Apply considerations of the site and the relationship with outdoor spaces of a project design.
  4. Present design work to a panel of critics, using a range of visual media and explaining the theoretical foundations of complex design ideas.
  5. Compile a folio of drawings, images and research notes that inform architectural and structural design responses.
  6. Incorporate a range of sustainability strategies into a project design.
 3 1
ARC321 Architectural Design 6 Core Subject content and structure:
Architectural Design 6 is the final vertically integrated design studio and is taught with other design studio levels. You work individually on introductory exercises, exploring precedents and the selected site in depth, and develop a design concept and project design in response to an architectural design brief, under the guidance of tutors and external critics. Student projects in Architectural Design 6 display ability in architectural composition and project integration. You will respond creatively to site and context, adopt environmentally sustainable design (ESD) principles and develop the design to a level of resolution appropriate to the scale of the project. In Architectural Design 6 you will complete a ‘work ready’ design portfolio for employment purposes that represents your learning and achievements in the course.
At completion of this subject, students will be able to:
  1. Develop a concept that synthesises ideas and design solutions into a coherent whole in response to a design brief.
  2. Provide a level of design resolution appropriate to the scale of the project.
  3. Apply considerations of site landscaping and the relationship with outdoor spaces of a project design.
  4. Present design work to a panel of critics, using a range of visual media and explaining the theoretical foundations of complex design ideas.
  5. Compile a folio of drawings, images and research notes that inform architectural and structural design responses.
  6. Incorporate a range of sustainability strategies into a project design.
 3 1
ARC312 Architectural Technology 5 Core Subject content and structure:
In this final Architectural Technology subject, you will encounter building methods and technologies suitable for larger and more complex public buildings. You will learn about wide-span construction systems, the uses of pre-cast and in-situ concrete, alternative building materials and specific services requirements and have the opportunity to gain firsthand experience of these processes through observational site visits.
At completion of this subject, students will be able to:
  1. Justify choices of materials that underpin the form and fabric of complex built environments.
  2. Apply construction and manufacturing processes appropriate to a complex built environment.
  3. Propose structural solutions and components for use in complex built environments.
  4. Integrate services applicable to complex built environments.
  5. Apply regulatory frameworks appropriate to complex built environments.
  6. Justify responses to a sophisticated design brief.
3 1
ARC313 Architectural Communications 3 Core Subject content and structure:
In Architectural Communications 3, you will explore the use of advanced modelling software in architectural design. The subject will give you a grounding in rendering and presentation software, develop your verbal and written communication skills and refine the folio of work you created in earlier Architectural Communications subjects.
At completion of this subject, students will be able to:
  1. Use advanced modelling software to develop and communicate a building design.
  2. Incorporate presentation software into design communication.
  3. Perform routine oral and written stakeholder communication.
  4. Compile a folio of work created in the subject.
 3 1
ARC323 Architecture and Urbanism Core Subject content and structure:
This subject introduces you to the history and theory of urbanism and its relationship with architecture in the broader context of the built environment. You will explore the influence of historical, social, cultural and economic forces on the growth of towns and cities, with a focus on Melbourne and its development as a metropolis since its founding in 1835. You will engage with both visual and narrative methods to develop a heightened awareness of the emerging issues of urban growth and change, as they relate to the development of contemporary urban environments.
At completion of this subject, students will be able to:
  1. Outline the social and historical evolution of the city.
  2. Discuss the links between architecture, urban design and planning.
  3. Critically analyse urban theories with a particular focus on the design and development of towns and cities.
  4. Critically review the impact that issues relating to urban growth and change have on place making.
 3 2
“My teachers are dedicated and very supportive and it has given me opportunities to make new friends. These experiences have made me feel happy and comfortable and as an international student this is very important.”
Eric Law
Architecture Degree
Portrait of student Eric Law

Fees & Costs

Fee-paying Places

Per year $18240
Per semester $9120
Per year $21200
Per semester $10600

When you are studying higher education courses you may qualify for FEE-HELP payments for part or all of your tuition fees. FEE-HELP loans do not cover materials costs.

Find out more information about FEE-HELP.

Fees displayed are effective for new applications received on or after 1st of November. Tuition fees do not include textbooks, course materials or overseas student health insurance and visa fees.

After initial deposit, international students are able to pay tuition fees in installments, four times per year.

For more detailed information please read the International Student Fees.

Architecture and Building Design at Melbourne Polytechnic

Undergraduate Certificate in Architectural Design
Architecture, Building Design and Construction - Full Time - Epping
Architecture, Building Design and Construction - Full Time - Epping
The Undergraduate Certificate in Architectural Design is your stepping stone to a career in the world of building design
Advanced Diploma of Building Design (Architectural) 22627VIC
Architecture, Building Design and Construction - Full Time, Part Time - Epping, Preston
VTAC Architecture, Building Design and Construction - Full Time, Part Time - Epping, Preston
Rise up in the world of design with the Advanced Diploma of Building Design (Architectural) 22627VIC. Your dream of working for an architect, building designer, or running your own building design firm can become a reality. A career in this field can be both creative and rewarding.
Diploma of Interior Design MSF50222
Architecture, Building Design and Construction - Full Time - Preston
VTAC Architecture, Building Design and Construction - Full Time - Preston
Become the architect of a colourful career with a Diploma of Interior Design. Develop your interior design skills to place you into the world of residential and commercial interior design. Work for large corporate clients and prestigious customers and unleash your creative flair into their world.
Certificate IV in Interior Decoration MSF40122
Architecture, Building Design and Construction - Full Time, Part Time - Preston
VTAC Architecture, Building Design and Construction - Full Time, Part Time - Preston
Beautify, adorn and enhance your future with a Certificate IV in Interior Decoration MSF40122. Establish your own interior design business or use your consulting skills for high-end clients in the fascinating world of interior decoration and design.

Requirements

Year 12 (or equivalent)

  • Minimum score of 20 in any English VCE Units 3 and 4 subjects or equivalent.
  • Minimum score of 20 in any Maths.
  • Selection interview.

VCAL Students:

  • Selection interview
  • Folio of work

Semester 2 commencement available to applicants with credit. Enquire now to find out more.


Applicants with higher education:

  • A complete or incomplete higher education qualification.
  • Participate in a selection interview.

Applicants with work and life experience:

  • Minimum of 2 years relevant industry experience.
  • Participate in a selection interview.

In addition, any prior study is supposed to have taken place in the past 10 years.

Higher Education Admissions Criteria

As well as the specific entry requirements above, Melbourne Polytechnic admits students on the basis of the following categories:

If you have already studied higher education: Y ou may meet the admissions criteria for higher education at Melbourne Polytechnic if your highest level of study since leaving secondary education is a higher education course, such as a university degree.

If you have studied a VET course: You may meet the admissions criteria for higher education at Melbourne Polytechnic if your highest level of study since leaving secondary education is a vocational education and training (VET) course.

If you have recent secondary education: You may meet the admissions criteria for higher education at Melbourne Polytechnic if you are a recent secondary education student whose admission is primarily based on the completion of Year 12 within the past two years.

If you have work and life experience: You may meet the admissions criteria for higher education at Melbourne Polytechnic if you have work and life experience and left secondary education more than two years ago and have not undertaken vocational education training (VET) or higher education study since then.

Read more about higher education admissions criteria.

 Academic: Australian Year 12 equivalency
English: Academic IELTS 6.5 with no individual band below 6.0 or equivalent as outlined in Melbourne Polytechnic's English Proficiency Policy. Pearson PTE Academic 58 overall with no individual communicative skill below 50, or Melbourne Polytechnic recognised equivalency.
Other: you must submit a folio of work. If you are shortlisted, you will be required to attend an interview Add the following to the admissions requirements: Applicants with vocational education and training (VET) study Completion of the Melbourne Polytechnic Advanced Diploma of Building Design or equivalent at another institution. Applicants with qualifications in related (e.g. Interior Design) fields to be assessed individually. Participate in a selection interview and presentation of a folio of work.

Applicants with higher education:

  • A complete or incomplete higher education qualification.
  • Participate in a selection interview.

Applicants with work and life experience:

  • Minimum of 2 years relevant industry experience.
  • Participate in a selection interview.

In addition, any prior study is supposed to have taken place in the past 10 years.

Next Steps

Melbourne Polytechnic is committed to providing transparency to the admissions process. In line with this commitment, we provide you with information that will help in making informed choices about your future studies.

Find out more about Melbourne Polytechnic’s commitment to admissions transparency.

Applicants for this course will need to have met the academic requirements. Meeting the minimum admission criteria does not guarantee entry into this course. Past academic performance may be considered.

You may also be required to attend an interview to discuss your career plans, aptitude and understanding of your chosen course of study and the requirements of tertiary study. (This may be conducted face-to-face or by through a video conference call using Skype or other application).

During your interview, you may be asked to provide:

  • Your CV outlining your relevant work and life skills and experience
  • Any letters of reference from employers
  • Documents relating to prior study including course transcripts and subject outlines from other Higher Education Providers if you wish to apply for credit
  • Your portfolio of work

Applicants may be required to attend an interview. Details will be provided by telephone or mail to applicants selected to attend an interview.

When we receive your application, the International Office will be in contact with you shortly to discuss your application and provide you additional instructions.

If you'd like to speak to one of our International Office staff directly, call 1300 635 276

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