The MArch(Arch Des) and MBEnv(Sust Dev) degrees have distinctively different emphases. The MArch(Arch Des) caters primarily to those interested in advanced architectural design and students are expected to have professional degrees in architecture, a qualification they share with a majority of those enrolling for the MBEnv(Sust Dev). The MBEnv(Sust Dev) focuses much more on applying principles of sustainability to designing the built environment. In the combined degree, environmentally oriented students will be able to improve their knowledge and skills in applying sustainability principles to the planning, design, construction and management of buildings as well as the urban environment in general. Architecturally oriented students will be able to expand their range of skills and the boundaries of their knowledge in applying broad sustainability principles including green building techniques to their work. The new combination program thus offers considerably increased value to students. By strategically selecting elective courses, the new program will allow interested students to complete requirements for both degrees in four sessions, a reduction of one session in the time it would normally take to complete both degrees separately.

Applicants for the combined MArch (Arch Des) MBEnv(Sust Dev) degree program must meet the requirements for enrolment in the MArch (Arch Des) program. Specifically, they are normally required to have a Bachelor of Architecture, or equivalent degree in Architecture which can lead to professional registration. Applicants must show that their average performance in design studio and design related undergraduate courses matches or surpasses the UNSW credit grade. Qualifications from another university or tertiary institution must be equivalent at a level acceptable to the Research Committee of the Faculty of the Built Environment (hereinafter referred to as the Committee). A minimum of one year of work experience in an architectural or building design office since graduation is highly desirable. Applicants must also submit a portfolio of their undergraduate work (and their work since graduation, if applicable), supported with letters from employers describing the role of the applicant in the work shown in their portfolio.

Please contact the Faculty of Built Environment for information regarding the Program Objectives and Learning Outcomes.

Students undertaking the MArch (Des) MBEnv(Sust Dev) Program are required to nominate their plan of study before commencement. They must then complete a set of prescribed core courses in that area of study, supplemented by elective courses to bring their total units of credit (UOC) to 96 for the degree. The degree may be commenced in either session of the academic year subject to the availability of places in the program as well as appropriate courses being offered at that time. It is normally undertaken over four full-time sessions or eight part-time sessions. In general, candidates are required to complete as many core courses as possible before undertaking their elective options. Notwithstanding, whether courses are offered in any one academic session will depend on student numbers. Students must therefore plan their programs in consultation with the Program Directors.

The combined program consists of 72 core UOCs and 24 elective UOCs. The core UOCs consist of two studios, a graduate project and 4 other courses. The 4 elective UOCs must be chosen from the core courses of the companion degree.

One course selected from:

1 course selected from core MBEnv (Sust Development) courses:

1 course selected from:

1 course selected from core MBEnv (Sust Devel) courses:

2 courses selected from core M Arch (Des) courses:

2 courses selected from the core M Arch (Des) courses:

Where applicants have undertaken external courses equivalent to core courses advanced standing of up to 12 UOCs may be permitted. When considering the granting of advanced standing on the basis of previous postgraduate study at another institution, the program authority will take into account the quality of the institution and the quality, level and content of postgraduate courses previously undertaken.

For information regarding fees for UNSW programs, please refer to the following website:  https://my.unsw.edu.au/student/fees/FeesMainPage.html