Architecture

The Bachelor of Architecture at The University of Sydney offers a comprehensive and innovative education designed to prepare students for a dynamic career in architecture and related fields. This program combines rigorous theoretical knowledge with practical application, fostering creativity, technical proficiency, and critical thinking. Students will gain a deep understanding of architectural design, construction technology, sustainability, history, and contemporary practices, equipping them with the skills necessary to address complex spatial challenges.

Throughout the course, students engage in studio-based learning, which encourages experimentation and exploration of design ideas in a collaborative environment. They will develop competencies in digital modeling, drawing, and visualization tools, as well as proficiency in constructing physical models and presentations. The curriculum emphasizes sustainability and resilience, ensuring graduates are equipped to create environmentally responsible and innovative built environments.

The program is structured to provide a balance between theoretical coursework and hands-on experience, including opportunities for internships, industry projects, and international exchanges. These experiences enable students to connect classroom learning with real-world applications, fostering industry readiness upon graduation. The degree also prepares students for registration as architects, providing a strong foundation for further specialization or postgraduate study.

With faculty comprising leading academics and practicing professionals, students benefit from expert mentorship and industry insights. The university’s state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated design studios, workshops, and digital laboratories, support students' creative and technical development. Graduates of the Bachelor of Architecture will be well-equipped to contribute to sustainable urban development, cultural projects, and innovative architectural solutions, making significant impacts in the built environment both locally and globally.

For the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in the Faculty of Architecture, Design and Planning, candidates undertake an approved program of supervised, advanced research, which constitutes an original contribution to knowledge. Students will be examined for the degree by completing a body of work presented in one of two forms:

• a substantial written thesis of 60,000-80,000 words that, through a sustained investigation, demonstrates an original contribution to knowledge; or
• a thesis comprising a substantial body of creative work for exhibition plus a written text of 30,000-50,000 words examining the histories and theoretical underpinnings of the creative work, both of which demonstrate an original contribution to knowledge.

For the dual mode (b) above, the length of the written thesis will be agreed through consultation between the candidate, the supervisory team and the Head of Discipline during the probationary period and any changes will need to be approved by the supervisor and Head of Discipline.

Research areas

• Architectural History, Theory and Criticism
• Architectural Design
• Architectural and Building Science and Technology
• Design Lab
• Urbanism

To be eligible for admission to the Doctor of Philosophy (Architecture), you must have completed the equivalent of one of the following in a subject area related to your proposed research area:

• bachelor’s degree with first class or second class honours or,
• master’s degree by research or,
• master’s degree by coursework with an independent research component such as a thesis, dissertation or research project with a minimum overall credit average.
• your academic/educational background and research experience with examples such as an academic transcript
• your CV/resume
• the area of interest for your PhD
• why you believe your research topics align with this supervisor
• IELTS: A minimum result of 7.0 overall and a minimum result of 6.0 in each band
• TOEFL paper-based: A minimum result of 592 overall including a minimum result of 4.5 in Writing TOEFL IBT: A minimum result of 96 overall including a minimum result of 17 in Reading, Listening and Speaking and 19 in Writing

Scholarships

• Australia Awards Scholarships (AAS)
• Research Training Program Fee Offset and Stipend Scholarship (International - formerly IPRS)
• University of Sydney International Scholarship (USydIS)
• Vice-Chancellor International Scholarships Scheme

The Bachelor of Design in Architecture at the University of Sydney is a comprehensive, innovative program designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking necessary to excel in the field of architecture. This undergraduate degree emphasizes a blend of creative design, technical competency, and theoretical understanding, preparing graduates to address complex architectural challenges within various contexts, including urban, environmental, and cultural environments. The curriculum integrates studio-based learning, where students engage in practical design projects, alongside coursework in architectural history, theory, construction methods, and sustainable design principles. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including dedicated design studios, digital fabrication labs, and advanced computing resources, fostering an environment for creative experimentation and technical mastery. The program encourages a multidisciplinary approach, collaborating with departments such as engineering, landscape architecture, and planning, to broaden students’ perspectives and enhance their problem-solving abilities. Throughout their studies, students develop proficiency in architectural software, visualization techniques, and building information modeling technologies, which are critical skills in contemporary architectural practice. The university’s strong industry connections and partnerships with architectural firms provide students with valuable internship opportunities, real-world project exposure, and networking access. The program also emphasizes sustainability and socially responsible design, reflecting contemporary priorities in architecture. Graduates are well-prepared to pursue professional accreditation and further studies in architecture, interior architecture, or related fields. The Bachelor of Design in Architecture at the University of Sydney offers a rigorous academic foundation coupled with experiential learning, aiming to produce innovative architects capable of shaping sustainable, functional, and aesthetically compelling environments for the future.