University of Auckland

What you'll study

This integrated professional programme combines advanced architectural design with urban planning theory and methods. Study emphasises studio-based design work, applied planning projects and research-led enquiry to address contemporary urban and environmental challenges.

• Design studio and architectural technology: intensive studios that develop conceptual design, detailed technical resolution, construction documentation and building performance analysis.
• Professional practice and ethics: courses in practice management, contracts, law and the professional responsibilities of architects and planners.
• Urban planning and policy: modules covering planning theory, urban governance, land-use policy, housing and development, and community engagement.
• Spatial analysis and tools: training in GIS, spatial modelling, data analysis and digital representation techniques used in planning and urban design.
• Environmental design and sustainability: building physics, passive and active systems, resilience and climate-responsive design for the urban context.
• Research project or thesis: an extended research or design-led project that synthesises architectural and planning knowledge and demonstrates professional competencies.
• Work-integrated learning: opportunities for professional practice placements, studio collaboration with industry and engagement on real-world projects with local authorities or community groups.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised undergraduate degree in architecture, planning, or a closely related discipline with a strong academic record. Typical application components include:

• A bachelors degree or equivalent in architecture, urban planning, landscape architecture, civil engineering or a related field.
• A portfolio of design work (for applicants with architectural background) or work samples/reports showing analytical and project work (for planning applicants).
• A curriculum vitae and personal statement outlining professional aims and relevant experience.
• Academic transcripts and at least one referee report; professional experience in practice or local government is advantageous.
• English language proficiency demonstrated by an accepted test where applicants do not hold a degree taught in English.

Meeting the minimum entry profile does not guarantee admission; selection is competitive and based on academic merit, portfolio quality and fit with the programme. Part-time study options are available for practitioners.

Career prospects

Graduates emerge with a combined skill set that opens a broad range of professional roles across architecture and planning sectors. Typical career paths include:

• Architect in private practice, responsible for design, documentation and contract administration.
• Urban planner or policy advisor in local and regional government, working on resource management, district planning and policy implementation.
• Urban designer or consultant in multidisciplinary design and engineering firms, focusing on precincts, public realm and mixed-use development.
• Specialist roles in housing, transport planning, sustainability consultancy, heritage conservation and community engagement.
• Research, teaching or doctoral study in architecture, urban planning and built environment disciplines.

The programme is structured to support progression to professional registration and membership pathways relevant to New Zealand practice and to provide skills that are transferable to international contexts.

Why study at University of Auckland

The University of Aucklands School of Architecture and Planning is situated in New Zealands largest city, offering a living laboratory for urban and architectural research. The School combines strong studio culture with cross-disciplinary research in areas such as sustainability, housing, infrastructure and urban resilience.

• Access to design studios, workshops and digital fabrication facilities that support advanced modelmaking and prototyping.
• Close engagement with industry partners, local councils and community groups across the Auckland region, enabling applied project work and professional networking.
• A teaching and research environment that emphasises real-world impact, interdisciplinary collaboration and contemporary practice issues in the built environment.