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Quick Facts

Programme Tabs

Overview

Programme Overview

The Postgraduate Diploma in Architecture is an introduction into postgraduate study for Bachelor of Architectural Studies graduates who do not wish to become practising architects.

The PGDipArch is a taught programme, where you will extend your knowledge in the particular aspects of architecture that interest you.

The PGDipArch is a suitable bridge into further postgraduate study in architecture for those who have a deep research interest.

Important: The PGDipArch is not a professionally accredited qualification and will not prepare you for professional registration.

Programme Structure

The PGDipArch programme consists of four taught courses and a 20,000-word research report. Core courses introduce you to research processes and methodologies. You have the choice of three elective courses in topics that appeal to you, from architectural history and theory, heritage conservation, materials and fabrication, sustainable design and urban design.

  • Core courses: 75 points
  • Elective courses: 45 points

Programme Careers

Potential Careers

While PGDipArch graduates often look to build a career in research and academia, you can also contribute to the industry as a designer, project manager, consultant or client liaison. Graduates also utilise their creative thinking in other fields, such as film or web design.

Jobs related to this programme

  • Academic
  • Architectural historian
  • Architectural historian
  • Building industry consultant
  • Building technologist
  • Cultural adviser
  • Design-based librarian or archivist
  • Digital design professional

Student career planning services

Once you become a student at the University, you can get help with planning and developing your career from Career Development and Employability Services.

Key Information for Students

Key Information for Students

Compare qualifications and academic information across different New Zealand institutions.

Entry Requirements, Fees and Dates

Programme Entry Requirements

Other qualifications

If your highest qualification was gained from another tertiary institution, view our entry requirements.


University of Auckland minimum programme requirements

Minimum requirements listed here are the likely grades required and do not guarantee entry. We assess each application individually and applicants may require a higher grade to be offered a place.

Taught (120 point) - 4.0 Grade Point Average 

Bachelor of Architectural Studies

Calculate your Grade Point Average (GPA)

Postgraduate Requirements

You'll also need to meet other requirements, including time limits and total points limits. See Postgraduate enrolment.

Other Pathways to Study

You must have completed the Bachelor of Architectural Studies degree from this University with a GPA of 4.0 or higher overall or in 60 points above Stage II.

If you do not meet the above entry requirements, but have other relevant experience and think you would be successful in postgraduate study, please contact us to discuss alternative pathways into our programmes. 

Fees and scholarships

Fees

Fees Disclaimer

Fees are set in advance of each calendar year and will be updated on this website. Fees are inclusive of 15% GST, but do not include the Student Services Fee, course books, travel and health insurance, or living costs. Fees will be confirmed upon completion of enrolment into courses. For more information, please see Fees and Money Matters.

*Please note: amounts shown are indicative and estimates only.

Scholarships

Scholarships and awards

Find out about the scholarships you may be eligible for.

Loans and Allowances

Student loans and allowances

Are you a New Zealand citizen or resident? You could be eligible for a student loan or allowance.

Cost of Living

Cost of living

Get an idea of how much accommodation and general living in Auckland will cost.

Key Dates

Application Advice

Please note: we will consider late applications if places are still available. International students should start the application process as early as possible to allow sufficient time to apply for a visa.

Key Dates

SemesterApplication Closing DateSemester Start DateSemester End Date
2026 Semester One08 December 202502 March 202629 June 2026
2027 Semester One01 March 2027

Other Important Dates

See important dates for the academic year, including orientation, enrolment, study breaks, exams, and graduation.

Regulations

Preamble

The regulations for this postgraduate diploma are to be read in conjunction with all other relevant statutes and regulations including the Academic Statutes and Regulations.

Admission

1 In order to be admitted to this postgraduate diploma, an applicant must have:

a completed the requirements for the Bachelor of Architectural Studies from this University with a Grade Point Average of 4.0 or higher, or have equivalent prior study

or

b completed the requirements for the Bachelor of Architectural Studies from this University with a Grade Point Average of 4.0 or higher in 60 points above Stage II.

2 Equivalence in Regulation 1 will be determined by the University. Equivalence pertains to the standard as well as nature and level of study.

3 In exceptional circumstances the requirements in Regulation 1 may be waived by the relevant Associate Dean Academic or nominee if they determine that an applicant has at least three years of relevant practical, professional or scholarly experience that provides an equivalent level of preparation.

Duration and Total Points Value

4 A student admitted to this postgraduate diploma must:

a pass courses with a total value of 120 points

and

b complete within the time limit specified in the General Regulations – Postgraduate Diplomas.

5 The total enrolment for this postgraduate diploma must not exceed 160 points.

Structure and Content

6 A student admitted to this postgraduate diploma must complete the requirements as listed in the Postgraduate Diploma in Architecture Schedule.

7 A student must complete the University of Auckland Academic Integrity course as specified in the Enrolment and Programme Regulations, Academic Integrity, of the University Calendar.

Distinction

8 This postgraduate diploma may be awarded with Distinction or Merit in accordance with the General Regulations – Postgraduate Diplomas.

Variations

9 In exceptional circumstances the Programme Director may approve a variation to a student’s programme of study in accordance with the Enrolment and Programme Regulations.

Regulation Commencement or Amendment

10 These regulations and/or schedule have been amended with effect from 1 January 2025.

Schedule

Programme Schedules

Complete 120 points comprising:

  • 15 points for all Compulsory Course, and
  • Either:
  • 60 points for all Research Report - 1 Semester, or
  • 60 points for all Research Report - 2 Semesters, and
  • 45 points from Elective Courses, and
  • 1 item from Academic Integrity Course

Compulsory Course

Complete 15 points for ALL of the following:

Research Report - 1 Semester

Complete 60 points for ALL of the following:

Research Report - 2 Semesters

Complete 60 points for ALL of the following:

Academic Integrity Course

Complete exactly 1 of the following:

Graduate Profile and Programme Capabilities

Graduate Profile

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Programme Capabilities

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Programme Capabilities to Graduate Profile Map

Programme Learning OutcomesPeople and PlaceSustainabilityKnowledge and PracticeCritical ThinkingSolution-SeekingCommunicationCollaborationEthics and Professionalism