COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Architectural Design at Monash University equips students with a broad set of skills, knowledge and professional capabilities aligned with the Australian Qualifications Framework and Monash Graduate Attributes. Throughout the course, students develop critical awareness of materials, construction processes and building systems, while gaining the design, technical and communication skills necessary to visually and verbally present architectural ideas across various media. The program encourages creative problem solving through iterative design processes and fosters collaboration within ethical, sustainable and culturally informed frameworks. Students also learn to integrate global perspectives, engage in design research and apply appropriate occupational health and safety practices. The degree is structured into four parts that build progressively toward a final year graduand exhibition. Critical context studies introduce the historical, cultural and theoretical foundations of architecture, beginning with Indigenous Australian creative practices and expanding to contemporary social and political influences on the discipline. Disciplinary practice units focus on construction, environmental systems, structural performance, and professional practice, supported by studies in drawing, modelling, CAD, ICT and BIM. Studio practice units provide hands-on opportunities to investigate materiality, structure, site, program and representation through experimental, project-based learning that integrates both conceptual thinking and technical development. Free electives allow students to deepen their learning within the Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture or broaden their knowledge across the wider university, with opportunities for overseas study through Monash Abroad. To complete the course, students must undertake 144 credit points across the four parts. Upon successful completion of the Bachelor of Architectural Design, students automatically progress to the Master of Architecture, where they continue developing the advanced skills and vision needed to design responsible, innovative and socially responsive architecture for contemporary and future communities.