The Master of Architecture (Professional) and Urban Planning (Professional) is a unique integrated professional degree that blends:

• Advanced architectural design skills and

• Urban planning knowledge for shaping cities, communities and built environments.

This is professionally accredited for architectural practice and urban planning, making it ideal for students who want to work as architects and planners with a deep understanding of how buildings relate to urban systems.

The programme enables you to:

• Save time compared to doing two separate master’s degrees in architecture and urban planning.

• Engage with critical urban and architectural issues in real-world contexts.

• Work with faculty and practitioners through studios, seminars and design projects.

Professional Accreditation:
Recognised by:

• New Zealand Registered Architects Board (NZRAB)

• Te K?hui Whaihanga NZ Institute of Architects (NZIA)

• Commonwealth Association of Architects (CAA)

• New Zealand Planning Institute (NZPI)

 

Programme Structure & Core Subjects

The 360-point degree combines architectural and urban planning coursework, design studios, and a substantial thesis or independent design project.

Core Components

• Architecture Design Studios & Professional Studies – Advanced architectural thinking and practice.

• Urban Planning Contexts & Theory – Policy, planning law, economic development and community design.

• Combined courses bring perspectives from both fields.

Sample Structure (Typical Progression)

Year 1 (≈120 pts)

• Advanced Design Studio

• Professional Architecture Studies

• Urban Planning Contexts

• M?ori Planning Issues

• Design as Research seminars

Year 2 (≈120 pts)

• Urban Law & Policy

• Urban Economic Development

• Housing & Community Development

• Contemporary Planning Studios

Year 3 (≈120 pts)

• Independent Thesis (90 pts) — major research/design project

• Elective seminars (30 pts) depending on interest areas such as sustainability or urban design practice.

 

Career Outcomes

Graduates of this comprehensive professional programme can pursue roles such as:

Architectural Practice

• Architectural Graduate

• Project Architect

• Design Consultant

Planning & Urban Development

• Urban Planner / Policy Analyst

• Environmental Planner / Designer

• Community Development Specialist

• Urban Designer

 

Programme Highlights

• Dual professional training: Architecture + Urban Planning in one degree.

• Accredited for practice: NZRAB, NZIA, CAA, NZPI recognised.

• Design studios integrated with policy and planning courses.

• Projects guided by leading practitioners and academics.

• Prepares you for leadership roles in built environment design and planning.

 

Visa Requirements for International Students

To study in New Zealand, international students must apply for a Student Visa from Immigration New Zealand, which generally requires:

• Offer of full-time study in the professional master’s
• Proof of tuition payment and funds for living costs
• Health insurance
• English language test scores if applicable

Part-time work & Post-Study Work Visas:
International students may be eligible to work part-time during study and apply for a post-study work visa after graduation (subject to Immigration NZ policy at the time).