COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Architecture program is structured to foster critical inquiry, technical excellence, and creative leadership through a rigorous blend of studio-based, theoretical, and research-focused modules. In the first year, students begin with the Thematic Design Studio, which introduces various areas of architectural specialisation. This studio experience is guided by renowned designers, international architects, and masterclasses, offering a broad and contemporary platform to experiment with innovative design thinking. Complementing this is a suite of digital communication and fabrication classes that support hands-on skills development. Alongside, the Contextual Design Studio deepens understanding of global architectural discourses, offering students the chance to engage with diverse design philosophies and international contexts—previous study sites have included Athens, Washington, and Palermo, enabling immersive learning experiences abroad. Simultaneously, students undertake Humanities and Technical Realisation seminars. In the Humanities Specialisation, students work with published scholars, exploring advanced themes such as urbanisation, gendered space, architectural fiction, and nationalism. Technical Realisation focuses on high-level research in building sciences, including topics such as lighting design, building performance, and conservation science, reinforcing the integration of theory and practice. A key component of the first year is the Dissertation, where students pursue an in-depth academic study under supervision, developing a strong architectural argument and scholarly voice. In the second year, the Management Practice and Law module provides vital industry knowledge, covering professional ethics, legal frameworks, contract management, and business acumen, supported by practicing architects and consultants. The Architectural Design Research Study (ADRS) allows students to define and investigate a focused research topic, laying the foundation for their final design work. Integrated Technology is aligned with the Design Thesis and assesses the students’ ability to apply advanced technical solutions within a comprehensive building design. The program culminates in the Design Thesis, a capstone studio project where students articulate their design leadership, professional capability, or specialised expertise, responding to real-world architectural challenges.