Master of Architecture – MArch
Expand your knowledge and skills with specialist study into your area of architectural interest.
If you’re interested in studying to become a professional architect, you should look at the Master of Architecture (Professional).
Delve deeper into the history and theory of architecture with the research and thesis-based Master of Architecture (MArch). This qualification will be of interest to you if you are already working in the profession and want to use research to deepen your understanding of a particular aspect of architecture. Or maybe you want to build on the knowledge gained at undergraduate level.
What you'll learn
You’ll further develop your critical thinking and discussion skills with a detailed and significant piece of research. Increase your understanding of how architectural history and theory are applied to design, so you can express your own ideas and conclusions within a robust theoretical framework.
Get the postgraduate Architecture and Design Innovation handbook
Find out more about your study options. Fill in a form to download our Wellington Faculty of Architecture and Design Innovation handbook.
Download the handbookExpertise through research
Choose a thesis topic that reflects your current knowledge of the intellectual, technical, aesthetic, and cultural conditions of architecture. Your research topic must have a basis in theory and be methodologically sound.
You'll get quality supervision and support from passionate staff with excellent reputations for teaching, research, and publishing.
You may be able to include media such as a drawing portfolio or video with your thesis submission. If you choose to use design as your primary research method in your thesis, it must be explained within a theoretical context.
Past research topics include:
- architectural and urban design processes
- sustainability in architecture
- architectural history, theory and criticism
- energy and environmental design of buildings, including sustainable design
The Master of Architecture does not qualify you for registration as an architect. If you want to become a practising architect, read about the Master of Architecture (Professional).
Duration and workload
The Master of Architecture can be completed within three trimesters or one calendar year of full-time study.
Studying full-time, you can expect a workload of 40 to 45 hours a week for much of the year.
Community
Postgraduate study at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington will help you build valuable relationships and networks with peers, university staff, and future colleagues. Make the most of opportunities to attend events, seminars, workshops, and social functions.
Postgraduate students in the Wellington School of Architecture play a vital role in developing high-quality research outputs. Research findings are often presented at national and international conferences and published in peer-reviewed journals. Many of our postgraduate alumni have become industry leaders in their chosen field. You'll also benefit from the expertise of working professionals through the Faculty's connections with local industry.
The Postgraduate Students' Association can also give you information on study at the University and provides a voice for you on campus.
Careers
If you are already working in the profession, you’ll add a new level of expertise to your practice.
The skills and knowledge you gain will open doors to a range of other jobs, including architectural conservator, archivist, or museum researcher. You might also find work as a critic or writer, curator, historian, or librarian.
Scholarships
The Wellington School of Architecture has a number of prizes and scholarships available each year.
You can also look for other scholarships based on your level of study, subject area, and background.
Advance your expertise with PhD study
If you do well in your Master's research, you'll be able to apply to do a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). This is the highest academic qualification offered by the University, and it involves original and sustained research under supervision.
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Requirements