Overview

The Architecture - Sustainable Design programme at the University of Auckland provides a robust platform for advanced research into environmental building strategies and architectural theory. This master-level qualification allows students to pursue deep academic inquiry through a self-directed thesis or a combination of research and coursework. Participants benefit from the guidance of internationally recognised scholars and leading design practitioners.

Why Architecture - Sustainable Design at the University of Auckland?

Choosing this programme means joining a community supported by nationally and internationally recognised staff, including prominent designers and scholars. The university provides a stimulating environment for architectural investigation, allowing students to build a significant academic context around their work. While this is a research-based degree rather than a professional accreditation, it offers unparalleled depth for those looking to specialise in sustainable built environments.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: NZD 55484 per year
National fee: NZD 9555 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Architectural Thesis
Research Portfolio
Architectural Investigations
Principles of Sustainable Architecture
Environmental Design and Climate-Responsive Architecture
Sustainable Building Materials and Technologies
Energy-Efficient Building Systems
Passive Design Strategies

Careers with Architecture - Sustainable Design

Graduates of this programme are well-equipped for diverse roles within the global building industry and beyond. Many alumni pursue careers in research and academia, while others apply their specialised knowledge in professional consultancy and technical roles. Potential career paths include:

Architectural Researcher
Building Industry Consultant
Building Technologist
Digital Design Professional
Architectural Historian
Cultural Adviser
Design-based Archivist

The creative and analytical skills developed during the programme also allow graduates to transition into related creative sectors, such as film production or digital web design.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Building envelope design

Design practices for sustainable outcomes

Energy efficiency in new and existing buildings

Indoor environmental quality, including thermal and visual comfort, and indoor air quality

Integration of renewable resources

Sustainable building technologies and materials

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-12-01 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-11 00:00:00
Starting 2027-03-01 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-08 00:00:00
Starting 2027-07-20 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-06-08 00:00:00

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

OR

90

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PTE Academic

58

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

120 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Auckland, New Zealand

Disciplines

Architecture Design View 22 other Masters in Design in New Zealand

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Academic requirements

GPA

Required

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

OR

90

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

58

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Research 120 points

You must have completed a four-year undergraduate degree, or at least a one-year postgraduate degree following a three-year undergraduate degree. This study must have been at a recognised university (or similar institution) and in the field of architecture or design. You will need a GPE of 5.0.

You must also submit a research proposal.

Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner

Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items like Additional medical costs, Repatriation, Liability etc. Make sure your student insurance covers your needs.

Studyportals partnered with Aon to provide you with the best affordable student insurance, for a carefree experience away from home.

Get your student insurance now

Starting from €0.53/day, free cancellation any time.

Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at University of Auckland and/or in New Zealand, please visit Student Insurance Portal.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

55484 NZD / year

≈ 55484 NZD / year
Domestic Applies to you

Applies to you

Citizens or residents

9555 NZD / year

≈ 9555 NZD / year

Living costs

Auckland

New Zealand

1400 - 2200 NZD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Architecture - Sustainable Design.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

On this page

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic Applies to you

Living costs

Auckland

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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