Built Environment

The Bachelor of Built Environment at the University of South Australia offers students a comprehensive education that prepares them for a dynamic career in the design, planning, and management of the built environment. This innovative program combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, enabling graduates to contribute effectively to sustainable development, urban planning, architecture, and construction industries. Throughout the course, students explore core disciplines such as architecture, urban design, environmental planning, and construction management, gaining a thorough understanding of how the built environment influences society, economy, and the natural world. The program emphasizes design thinking, problem-solving, and critical analysis, fostering creativity and innovation in addressing contemporary challenges related to urbanization, climate change, and resource management. Students benefit from hands-on learning experiences, including studio projects, industry internships, and collaborative workshops, which help develop real-world skills and professional networks. The curriculum is designed to be flexible, allowing students to tailor their studies to specific interests and career aspirations within the built environment sector. Graduates of this program are well-equipped for diverse career paths, including urban planner, construction manager, architecture assistant, sustainability consultant, or project manager. The University of South Australia’s strong links with industry partners and professional bodies ensure that the program remains current and relevant, providing students with opportunities for industry engagement and practical experience. With a focus on sustainable design principles and innovative technologies, the Bachelor of Built Environment prepares students to become responsible professionals dedicated to creating resilient, livable, and environmentally conscious communities. Whether aiming to work in Australia or internationally, graduates will have the knowledge, skills, and confidence to make a positive impact in shaping the future of our built environments.

The Bachelor of Built Environment program requires the completion of courses totalling 108 units.

Entry requirements

To be eligible for selection, applicants are required to:

Qualify for the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE), and

• obtain a competitive ATAR, and
• meet any prerequisite requirements with a minimum grade of C-

Alternatively, applicants can fulfil one of the following requirements with a competitive result, and demonstrate that they fulfil any prerequisite requirements, and other academic requirements for the program:

• Complete secondary education qualifications equivalent to SACE, or
• Complete the International Baccalaureate Diploma with a minimum score of 24 points, or
• Complete or partly complete a recognised higher education program at a recognised higher education institution, or
• Complete at least four Open Universities Australia (OUA) courses at undergraduate level or above, or
• Complete an award from a registered training organisation at Certificate IV level or above, or
• Qualify for Special Entry, or
• Complete a University Foundation Studies program

English language entry requirements

In addition, international students who speak English as a foreign language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at the University of South Australia. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.

English language test

• IELTS total: - 6.0
• IELTS reading: - 6.0
• IELTS writing: - 6.0

Vice Chancellor’s International Excellence Scholarship

International students may be eligible for a 50% reduction in their student contributions (tuition fees) for up to four years of full-time study. Up to 20 scholarships are available in 2017 for students who have applied to study a UniSA undergraduate or postgraduate (by coursework) degree. 

International Merit Scholarship

International students may be eligible for a 25% reduction in their student contributions (tuition fees) for their first year of study in this program. 

The Built Environment program at the University of South Australia is designed to prepare students for a variety of careers within the expansive and dynamic field of urban development, construction, planning, and design. This program provides a comprehensive curriculum that integrates core principles of architecture, construction management, urban planning, and infrastructure development. Students are equipped with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, facilitating their transition into professional roles that contribute to the development of sustainable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing environments.

The coursework emphasizes sustainable practices, innovative design solutions, and current industry standards. Students engage with cutting-edge technologies such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), sustainable construction techniques, and digital design tools, ensuring they are well-versed in modern methodologies. The program also incorporates internships, industry projects, and collaborations with real-world clients to enhance experiential learning and foster industry connections.

Graduates of this program are prepared for diverse roles such as urban planners, construction project managers, architectural designers, sustainability consultants, and facilities managers. The program encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and critical thinking, preparing students to address complex urban challenges such as climate change, population growth, and infrastructure resilience.

The university’s focus on innovation, research, and community engagement enriches the learning experience, giving students access to a vibrant academic environment supported by experienced faculty members active in their respective fields. Various electives and specializations allow students to tailor their studies according to their career interests, whether in residential, commercial, industrial, or public sector project development.

The Built Environment program also emphasizes the importance of ethical practices and social responsibility, aligning educational outcomes with the needs of contemporary society. Upon graduation, students are not only qualified professionals but also advocates for sustainable development, equipped to contribute meaningfully to communities and the broader built environment sector. This program is ideal for individuals passionate about shaping the future of urban landscapes through innovative and sustainable solutions.