Bachelor of Architectural Studies
- Commencing Terms
- Term 1 & 3
- Duration
- 3 Year(s)
- Delivery Mode
- Face-to-face (includes blended)
- Campus
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Kensington
- Codes
- UAC code 423000
- Program code 3261
- CRICOS code 061903M
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ATAR/2025 lowest selection rank
- 90.0 View all admission criteria
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2026 Indicative first year full fee
- $9,500*
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2026 Indicative full fee to complete degree
- $30,000*
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2026 Indicative first year full fee
- $52,000*
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2026 Indicative full fee to complete degree
- $167,500*
Entry Requirements
Fees
Fees
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Award-winning architects
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Internship opportunities
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International courses
Join us at Info Day
Thursday, 18 December | 12–4pm | Kensington campus
Join us on campus to get personalised advice on your study options before UAC preferences close. Info Day is the perfect opportunity to get all of your last minute questions answered, the day ATARs are released.
Application closures for 2026
Undergraduate programs for 2026 intakes are closed for New Overseas Student Commencement (NOSC) applications. Applications for postgraduate programs remain open. Find out if this closure applies to you.
- Overview
- Entry requirements
- What will I study?
- Future careers
- How to apply
- Fees & Scholarships
- FAQs
Bachelor of Architectural Studies overview
Help to shape future environments with the Bachelor of Architectural Studies at UNSW. This three‑year undergraduate architecture program is internationally recognised for its real‑world relevance and research‑informed teaching, setting you up with the skills to design, model and construct spaces that enrich the lives of the people who inhabit them.
At UNSW’s world‑leading School of Built Environment, you’ll collaborate and learn across disciplines – from digital fabrication and 3D modelling to material experimentation and construction technology. Explore the interrelated challenges of climate-responsive architecture, housing and cultural safety. Participate in thought-provoking discussions, tackle hands-on projects and complete coursework shaped by the evolving architecture profession.
If you’re passionate about a career in architecture, the Bachelor of Architectural Studies is a powerful stepping stone to diverse careers in architecture and related design‑based industries. This architecture degree also offers seamless progression into the professionally‑accredited architectural Master of Architecture.
Why study architecture at UNSW?
In the Bachelor of Architectural Studies at UNSW, you’ll learn from seasoned architects and academics at UNSW’s School of Built Environment – ranked #1 in Sydney for architecture and built environment (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2025). Gain hands-on experience through Work Integrated Learning and building a strong foundation for future professional registration. As Sydney’s leading undergraduate architecture program, UNSW combines world-class teaching, cutting-edge facilities and a vibrant student community. You’ll graduate ready to lead and innovate in the architectural industry.
Explore broad foundations with cutting-edge tools
The Bachelor of Architectural Studies offers a rich blend of courses that will help you explore and refine your design perspective. Build knowledge across architectural history, sustainability and cultural awareness — including the opportunity to engage with First Nations knowledge systems and inclusive design principles. Gain access to professional tools and software, including a free Adobe Creative Cloud subscription and advanced design studios like the Design Futures Lab. With hands-on experience in digital fabrication, 3D modelling and spatial analysis, you’ll graduate confident and career-ready.
Graduate with in-demand skills and strong career prospects
Through hands-on learning and industry engagement, this architecture degree gives you the practical skills and experience to succeed in today’s architecture space. You’ll gain experience through real industry projects, internships and design studio collaborations, developing a deep understanding of design processes and construction methods. Our career-focused approach has earned us recognition for producing the Australia’s Most Employable Students for six years in a row (AFR Top100 Future Leaders Awards, 2020–2025).
Join a supportive, purpose-driven community
Be supported by our diverse, open and inclusive Arts, Design & Architecture community. As a student, you’ll gain access to supportive student associations, such as the Women in Built Environment Student Society.
Want to see more from UNSW Arts, Design & Architecture?
What are the entry requirements for Architectural Studies at UNSW?
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- The 2025 Lowest Selection Rank (LSR) is the adjusted rank (ATAR plus adjustment factors) you would have needed to gain entry to this degree in 2025.
- The 2025 A levels score is based on four Advanced Level (A2) subjects. Entry scores are calculated from the best three or four A2 subjects (excluding repeated subjects) using the following values: A*=6, A=5, B=4, C=3, D=2, E=1. At most one Applied A Level subject may be included in the best four subjects used to calculate the aggregate.
- The 2025 IB Diploma is an indication of the IB you would have needed to gain entry to this degree in 2025. It is to be used as a guide only.
- The 2025 Lowest ATAR is the lowest ATAR (before adjustment factors were applied) to which an offer was made. Where <5 is listed, this indicates that less than 5 ATAR-based offers were made and so the score has not been published. N/A indicates no offers were made on the basis of ATAR.
*The Lowest ATAR to which an offer was made, for this program, is based on a UNSW Gateway Early Conditional Offer.
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At UNSW, we are committed to ensuring prospective students have all the information they need in order to make informed decisions about their study options.
To assist you in gaining a better understanding of how Admissions works at UNSW, we have provided you with a summary of ATAR offers and the student profile.
We hope this information will help you identify the degree that is right for you.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
Domestic students are eligible to apply for the following volume of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) credits towards their UNSW degree that belong in the Faculty of Arts, Design & Architecture:
- 1-year Diploma: 48 UoC (equivalent to first year)
- 1.5-year Advanced Diploma/Associate Degree: Up to 72 UoC (equivalent to first year and a half)
- 2-year Advanced Diploma/Associate Degree: Up to 96 UoC (equivalent to two years)
Considering your previous qualifications and their relevance to the chosen program at UNSW, the type and amount of credit you can apply for, as well as the duration of your remaining program, will then be determined.
Assessment by the Program Director is required for RPL applications toward Professional Accredited programs. Please note that eligibility for the full volume of RPL may be subject to accreditation requirements.
Adjustment Factors
We offer a range of adjustment factor schemes that reward students for academic performance and extra-curricular achievements. These schemes also take into account a range of personal and educational disadvantages that may have affected your studies.
HSC Plus
This scheme rewards students who perform well in Year 12 subjects that are relevant to their preferred UNSW degree. You may be awarded up to five points.
Elite Athletes, Performers and Leaders (EAPL)
This program recognises achievements in the areas of sport, academia, leadership and music at an elite level. You may be eligible for up to five points.
Educational Access Scheme (EAS)
Factors such as illness, financial hardship, language difficulties or attending a particular school can mean you don't always get the best possible marks in Years 11 and 12. If one of these situations applies to you, submit an application for the Educational Access Scheme (EAS) via UAC. Eligible students can receive between 1 and 10 points towards their chosen UNSW degree.
Admission pathways
Portfolio Entry
At UNSW School of Built Environment, we recognise your creative potential. With Portfolio Entry, you can submit a portfolio of your best creative work to showcase your talent and boost your chance of admission. Learn more about Portfolio Entry.
UNSW also offers a number of other admission pathways to support you in boosting your admission opportunities. Find your path to UNSW.
University Preparation Program
If you want to study at UNSW but faced challenges in year 11 and 12 that make you eligible for the UNSW ACCESS Scheme, but you don't meet the cut-off for degree entry, consider the University Preparation Program.
The University Preparation Program is a one-year pathway to a UNSW degree place. You'll study subjects that allow you to develop your academic skills, including maths skills if needed, so that you can achieve your best results. You also study degree level courses from week one, to give you a realistic introduction to university level study. If you do well in these courses you can earn course credit towards your degree.
English language requirements
You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on your educational background and citizenship. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.
If you’re completing an Australian Year 12 qualification (e.g. NSW HSC or equivalent), you do not need to provide anything extra to prove your proficiency. Your qualification will be used as evidence of your English proficiency.
If you do need to provide evidence of your English proficiency, this will be indicated in your application. You can prove this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:
- English language tests and university English courses
- Prior study in the medium of English
- Other qualifications
If you need to improve your English skills before you start your degree, UNSW College’s Academic English Programs are for you. The programs are suitable for various English levels and help you prepare for university studies and life in Australia.
For more details, visit the English Language Requirements page.
International direct entry
Information for applicants with CBSE, HKDSE or Singapore A Levels Qualification
Calculating your CBSE Score:
Awarded by CBSE, average percentage marks across English or Hindi, and your best four remaining subjects. Where marks are given as a range, the mid-point for that range is used e.g. 75 to 80 = 77.5.
Calculating your HKDSE Score:
Entry requirements are based on the aggregate of the best 5 achieved category A subjects (category B and C subjects are not considered).
For subjects other than Citizenship and Social Development: level 5**=7 points, level 5*=6 points, level 5=5 points, level 4=4 points, level 3=3 points, level 2=2 points, level 1=1 point, Level U=0 point.
For subject Citizenship and Social Development: Attained=2 points, Unattained=0 point. Citizenship and Social Development will only be counted towards the aggregate if the 2 points awarded for Attained ranks among the student’s best five scoring subjects.
If Mathematics Compulsory Part and Extended Part (Module 1 or 2) are both presented, both scores can be counted.
Calculating your Singapore A Levels:
Due to significant changes to the GCE A-Level Curriculum and University Admissions Score (UAS) calculation effective 2026, UNSW assessment is currently under review.
Note: Entry requirements published on this page are correct as of the day of publication and may change without notice.
We do not accept secondary qualifications from this country. We may accept tertiary study results, please contact us for more information.
Please contact us for direct entry requirements.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
Typically, international students are eligible to apply for the following volume of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) credits towards their UNSW degree that belong in the Faculty of Arts, Design & Architecture:
- 1-year Diploma: Up to 48 UoC
- 1.5-year Advanced Diploma/Associate Degree: Up to 72 UoC
- 2-year Advanced Diploma/Associate Degree: Up to 96 UoC
Generally, International students must ensure that their prior qualifications are assessed and deemed relevant to the program they intend to pursue. Additionally, they are required to maintain a full-time study load as part of the conditions for their Confirmation of Enrolment.
Admission pathways
If you do not meet the requirements for direct entry into your chosen degree, you may be eligible for a pathway program with UNSW College. UNSW College provides alternative entry options using university-approved content so that you can start your UNSW journey with confidence.
English language requirements
You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on whether you are from an English-speaking background or non-English speaking background. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.
If English is not your first language, you’ll need to provide proof of your English proficiency before you can be given an offer to study at UNSW. You can do this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:
- English language tests and university English courses
- Prior study in the medium of English
- Other qualifications
If you need to improve your English skills before you start your degree, UNSW College’s Academic English Programs are for you. The programs are suitable for various English levels and help you prepare for university studies and life in Australia.
For more details, visit the English Language Requirements page.
Check the specific English language requirements for this program
UNSW is introducing a new academic calendar from 2028.
We are moving to a new flex-semester calendar. What does this mean for your studies?
What will I learn in the Bachelor of Architectural Studies?
The Bachelor of Architectural Studies is a three-year undergraduate program when studied full-time. The degree is designed to help you design, analyse and construct spaces that respond to both human needs and environmental challenges. Through a combination of design studio courses, core subjects and electives, you’ll explore areas like sustainable architecture, construction technology, digital fabrication and architectural theory. Guided by award-winning architects and researchers, you’ll graduate ready to create thoughtful and resilient spaces for the future.
Study areas
The Bachelor of Architectural Studies provides a disciplinary grounding in architectural design in practice and related technical and academic knowledge. You'll learn real-world design challenges and issues such as climate-responsive architecture, housing and cultural safety.
Our curriculum seamlessly integrates environmental sustainability, construction principles and digital design to equip you with the skills to create adaptive and resilient built environments. Lectures and practical sessions cover the following areas:
- Architectural design
- Architectural communications (drawing, digital tools and model-making)
- Architectural history and theory
- Architectural science and technology
- Architectural construction and structures
Bachelor of Architectural Studies program structure
The Bachelor of Architectural Studies contains a total of 144 units of credit (UOC) and can be completed in 3 years with full-time study or 4-6 years with part-time study. Students must complete:
7 design studio courses – 54 UOC
- Architectural Design Studio 1
- Architectural Design Studio 2
- Architectural Design Studio 3A
- Architectural Design Studio 3B
- Architectural Design Studio 4
- Architectural Design Studio 5
- Architectural Design Studio 6
11 core courses – 66 UOC
- Construction and Structures 1
- Communication in the Built Environment
- Principles of Sustainable Design
- Parametric Design and Digital Fabrication
- Architectural History and Theory 1
- Architectural History and Theory 2
- Construction and Structures 2
- BIM for Sustainable Design: Lifecycle Carbon Analysis
- Architectural History and Theory 3
- Architectural Fabrication
- Architectural Science and Building Environment
2 free elective courses – 12 UOC
Students may take two courses from within the School of Built Environment or other faculties
2 general education courses - 12 UOC
Students may take two General Education courses from other faculties.
Bachelor of Architectural Studies careers
This undergraduate architecture degree offers a clear pathway to professional registration as an architect in Australia. The Bachelor of Architectural Studies develops your technical and creative capabilities while giving you the flexibility to explore a broad range of professional directions. You’ll graduate with a solid foundation in architectural design, construction technology, spatial analysis and sustainable architecture, positioning you for success in Australia and globally.
With an architecture degree from UNSW, your skills will be highly valued across many sectors — from multidisciplinary design studios to government, commercial and community-based practice. You’ll also be equipped to progress into the accredited Master of Architecture, which is accredited by the Architects Accreditation Council of Australia (AACA).
Architecture careers
This degree sets you up to pursue a variety of careers in the architecture and built environment space, including. Potential roles and career pathways include:
- Architect within multidisciplinary design practices
- Architectural critic, academic or researcher
- Architectural technician
- Building scientist
- Designer
- Environmental consultant
- Interior design architect
- Roles within large commercial architectural firms
- Specialist architect in areas such as housing
- Starting your own architecture practice
Accreditation
The Bachelor of Architectural Studies is an undergraduate pathway to the professionally accredited postgraduate Master of Architecture, which has professional recognition from the NSW Architects Registration Board and is accredited by Architects Accreditation Council of Australia (AACA). To become a registered architect, you must also complete two years of professional work experience and undertake the professional practice exam.
How to apply
Applications for undergraduate study from domestic students (Australian citizens, Australian permanent residents, Australian permanent humanitarian visa holders and New Zealand citizens) are processed by the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC).
Visit the Apply section of the UAC website and you can nominate up to five degrees in order of preference, with the first being your most desired degree and university.
On-time applications for admission usually close at the end of September each year for Term 1 admission. Late applications can be submitted, but a late fee will apply. For study starting in Term 1, the majority of offers are made in December and January. Visit the UAC website for key dates for admission outside of Term 1.
Ready to start your application?
For most international students, applications are submitted via our Apply Online service. We encourage you to submit your completed application as early as possible to ensure it will be processed in time for your preferred term.
Some high-demand programs with limited places, may have an earlier application deadline or may have an earlier commencement date. For details, visit the international admissions information page.
*If you are an international student studying an Australian qualification, go to the Universities Admission Centre (UAC) for application and UAC key dates. Note: If you are under 18 years of age, you need to make special arrangements. For details, visit the under 18 international students page.
Ready to start your application?
Fees & Scholarships
Commonwealth Supported Place: Student Contribution Band 2
*The student contribution for a Commonwealth Supported Place is an indication only of the amount payable in Year 1 based on a standard full-time load of 48 credit points (1.0 EFTSL). The actual student contribution you will be liable for depends on your individual program of study and the calendar year in which you enrol. Actual fees are calculated upon enrolment. Student contribution amounts are subject to annual review by the university and may increase each year during your studies (subject to caps determined by the Australian Government), effective at the start of each calendar year.
The indicative fees listed here are based on an estimated average and are for tuition only - other fees and charges are not included.
*Fees are subject to annual review by the University and may increase annually, with the new fees effective from the start of each calendar year. The indicative fees listed here are based on an estimated average and are for tuition only, other fees and charges are not included. The amount you pay will vary depending on the calendar year to enrol, the courses you select and whether your study load is more or less than 1 Equivalent Full Time Student Load (8 courses per year).
Indicative fees are a guide for comparison only based on current conditions and available data. You should not rely on indicative fees. More information on fees can be found at the UNSW fees website.
Indicative fees to complete the program have been calculated based on a percentage increase for every year of the program. Fee increases are assessed annually and may exceed the indicative figures listed here.
Indicative fees to complete the program include tuition plus an estimate of study-related costs of approximately $1,000 per year. To find out more about other costs, visit UNSW International.
Scholarships
At UNSW, we award over $83 million in scholarships each year. We pride ourselves on rewarding excellence and making university accessible to students from all walks of life. Whether you’re a domestic or international student, our range of scholarships, prizes and awards can support your journey.
FAQs about the Bachelor of Architectural Studies
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You will learn how to design architecture that works for people and the planet, exploring environmental, social and cultural dimensions of the built environment. The curriculum blends architectural design studios, core theoretical and technical courses, and electives/general education. See the handbook for a full breakdown of courses.
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Full‑time students typically complete the degree in 3 years. The program comprises 144 Units of Credit (UOC). Part‑time options are available which may extend completion to 4‑6 years.
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The Bachelor of Architectural Studies is one step on the path to becoming a registered architect. After completing it, you can progress to the Master of Architecture at UNSW, which is required for registration as an architect in Australia.
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You’ll engage in design studio courses as part of the program, working on real industry‑relevant architectural projects, and interacting with external partners and professional environments.
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Yes – as part of UNSW’s broader international‑studies offering, students at the School of Built Environment can access overseas exchange or study‑abroad programs through UNSW’s network of partner institutions.
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Architecture graduates are prepared for roles in architecture and design‑based industries – including architectural design, urban/housing design, building science, environmental consultancy, design studios and specialised architectural practice.
Progress starts here – at a world-leading university
Top 20 Worldwide
Ranked in the global top 20 for three consecutive years
QS World University Rankings, 2024–2026
Winner of the AFR Most Employable University Award six years in a row
AFR Top100 Future Leaders Awards, 2020–2025
Australia's #1 for Innovation
Highest number of startups and spinouts from university-developed tech
SCOPR report, 2024
The student community collectively inspire and encourage my individual career goals.
