Master of Architecture (Professional) and Urban Planning (Professional)

Program Overview

---

The Master of Architecture (Professional) and Urban Planning (Professional) program at the University of Auckland combines expertise from both fields, preparing students for professional qualifications in architecture and urban planning. The program emphasizes collaboration, critical thinking, and research, equipping graduates with the skills to make a positive impact on the built environment industry. Recognized by prestigious organizations, the program offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary learning experience, leading to careers in architecture, urban planning, and related fields.

Program Outline

---

Degree Overview:

---

Master of Architecture (Professional) and Urban Planning (Professional)

(MArch(Prof)UrbPlan(Prof)) aims to prepare students for the multidisciplinary nature of the modern built environment industry. The program is designed to combine the expertise of two professionally accredited programs, allowing students to gain professional qualifications in both architecture and urban planning within a shorter timeframe. The program is recognized by prestigious organizations like the New Zealand Registered Architects Board (NZRAB), Te Kāhui Whaihanga New Zealand Institute of Architects (NZIA), the Commonwealth Association of Architects (CAA), and the New Zealand Planning Institute (NZPI).

---

Objectives:

• Equip graduates with the skills and knowledge required to practice as professional architects and urban planners.
• Develop a deep understanding of the design and theoretical aspects of architecture and urban planning.
• Enhance critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Foster collaboration and communication skills necessary for success in the industry.
• Provide a platform for students to explore areas of interest and conduct personal research through a design thesis.

---

Program Description:

The MArch(Prof)UrbPlan(Prof) combines courses from both the Master of Architecture (Professional) and Master of Urban Planning (Professional) programs, offering a comprehensive and interdisciplinary learning experience. Through a combination of taught seminars and studios, students will gain a profound understanding of advanced design principles, explore local and international best practices in urban planning, conduct personal research, and develop their design thesis.

---

Outline:

---

Year One:

• Advanced Design 1 (30 points)
• Professional Studies 2 (15 points)
• Urban Planning Contexts (15 points)
• Advanced Design 2 (30 points)
• Design as Research (15 points)
• Māori Planning Issues (15 points)

---

Year Two:

• Urban Planning Law (15 points)
• Urban Planning and the Environment (15 points)
• People, Communities and Urban Planning (15 points)
• Urban Planning Theory (15 points)
• Sustainable Infrastructure Planning (15 points)
• Urban Economic Development (15 points)
• Urban Planning Methods and Plan Making Studio (15 points)
• Elective Seminar (15 points)

---

Year Three:

• Thesis (30 points)
• Sustainable Urbanism (15 points)
• Elective Seminar (15 points)
• Thesis (60 points)

---

Course Structure:

The program consists of core courses, elective courses, and a thesis. The core courses provide a foundation in both architecture and urban planning, while the elective courses allow students to explore specific areas of interest.

---

Assessment:

The program employs a variety of assessment methods, including:

• Design projects
• Exams
• Essays
• Presentations
• Participation
• Thesis
The specific assessment methods used in each course will vary depending on the learning objectives.

---

Teaching:

The program is taught by a team of experienced and internationally recognized academics and practitioners. The teaching methods vary depending on the course but may include:

• Lectures
• Tutorials
• Seminars
• Workshops
• Site visits
• Studio work
The program emphasizes active learning and encourages students to engage in critical thinking and problem-solving.

---

Careers:

Graduates of the MArch(Prof)UrbPlan(Prof) program are qualified to work as professional architects or urban planners. They can pursue careers in a wide range of organizations, including:

• Architectural firms
• Urban planning consultancies
• Government agencies
• Non-profit organizations
• Private companies
The program prepares students for leadership roles in the built environment industry and equips them with the skills and knowledge to make a positive impact on the world.

---

Other:

• The program is offered in a full-time or part-time format.
• Students can choose to complete the program in three years for full-time study or at a flexible pace for part-time study.
• The University of Auckland is a world-ranked university with a strong reputation for teaching and research.