Graduate Diploma of Architectural Studies

School of Arts & Sciences

Interested in addressing contemporary challenges such as housing affordability and sustainability? Designed for graduates of architecture or cognate disciplines, including international architecture graduates, the Graduate Diploma of Architectural Studies at the University of Notre Dame Australia offers a clear and focused pathway to the accredited Master of Architecture. The program develops the skills and knowledge required for progression into postgraduate architectural study, grounded in the Australian professional and cultural context.

• Why study this degree?

  The unique experience of studying architecture at Notre Dame is founded on a holistic way of thinking and acting to combine creative design processes and technical skills with an understanding of human, cultural and environmental issues.

  This Graduate Diploma provides a pathway for students with backgrounds in architecture from other countries and from other cognate disciplines. Knowledge and skills specific to the profession of architecture in an Australian context are integrated within the project-based learning. The curriculum focuses on preparation for entry into the Master of Architecture and is co-taught the current final year of the Bachelor of Arts (Architecture) students, increasing networks through shared learning opportunities.

  Studio‑based learning forms the core of the Graduate Diploma of Architectural Studies, where students consolidate architectural design, technical and applied skills through socio‑spatial design studios addressing contemporary challenges in the Australian built environment.

  The strength of this program lies in its unique combination of the following:

  • Purpose‑built pathway to the Master of Architecture
  • Small cohort, focused transition
  • Australian professional and cultural alignment
  • Studio‑based preparation for postgraduate study
  • Clear progression point into accredited architectural education

• Program summary

  Semester 1

  • ARCH5001 Architectural Technologies
  • ARCH5002 Local Studio and Architectural Systems
  • ARCH5005 Architectural Contexts, Theory and Critique

  Semester 2

  • ARCH5006 Architectural Building Systems
  • ARCH5007 Complex Building Studio and Architectural Typology
  • PHIL6020 Ethical Issues in Professional Life

  Full details of the program requirements are contained in the Program Requirements.

  More information regarding courses can be found at the course descriptions page.

  Please note: the availability of these courses is indicative only and may be subject to change.

• Entry requirements

  To be eligible for admission to The University of Notre Dame Australia, all applicants must meet the University’s minimum requirements for admission. The requirements for admission are detailed in the University’s Policy: Admissions.

  To be eligible for admission to the Graduate Diploma of Architectural Studies applicants must also meet the following specific requirements:

  • An AQF 7 (or higher) qualification in Architecture or another cognate discipline; or
  • An international equivalent of the above, as recognised by the University.

• Learning outcomes

  Upon successful completion of the Graduate Diploma of Architectural Studies graduates will be able to:

  1. Apply theoretical knowledge and practical skills to the design processes relevant to the discipline of Architecture.
  2. Critically analyse appropriate sources of contemporary architectural projects within spatial, social and environmental contexts.
  3. Apply different conceptual approaches and/or research methods to professional and ethical decision-making.
  4. Apply technical knowledge, professional skills and ethical practice required by Architecture to create innovative architectural solutions.
  5. Apply technical, visual, written and verbal skills to communicate arguments and/or architectural ideas.
  6. Work independently and, where appropriate, in collaboration within multi-disciplinary teams.
  7. Apply research skills and critical reflection to appraise national and international architectural discourse and practices and inform personal design positioning.

• Career opportunities

  This program provides a pathway in the Master of Architecture. A graduate diploma alone does not allow for a direct pathway to registration as an architect – a Master of Architecture and further professional experience are required for registration.

• Scholarships

  Scholarships provide financial support to students while they are completing their studies. There are various scholarships available to prospective and current students, across all study levels and campuses.

  These can be funded by Notre Dame, industry, individuals and non-profit organisations, to provide financial assistance to students to support costs associated with study. This could include buying food, paying rent, transport, and household bills, raising children as single parents, being a single-income household, becoming unemployed or caring for a sick loved one.

  Please visit the Scholarships Finder to see which scholarships are available to Postgraduate students.

• Fees and costs

  This Program has the following loan scheme(s) available for eligible students:

  Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP)
  A Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) is a place at a university where the Australian Government pays part of your fees. This part is a subsidy, not a loan, and you don’t have to pay it back. However, this subsidy does not cover the entire cost of your study. Students must pay the rest, which is called the ‘student contribution amount’.

  In a Commonwealth Supported Place, your fees are subsidised by the Australian Government. Your fees will be split into two portions:

  The Commonwealth contribution, which is the portion paid by the Australian Government.

  The student contribution, which is the portion you pay. You may choose to pay upfront or defer your student contribution with a HECS-HELP Loan. The HECS-HELP loan scheme assists eligible students with the payment of all, or part, of their tuition fees, not including additional study costs such as accommodation or textbooks. Your HECS-HELP debt will be indexed each year in line with the Consumer Price Index.

  Eligible students will be offered a CSP – you do not need to apply.

  International Full-Fee Paying
  Tuition costs depend on an international student’s study load and discipline. Fees are payable each semester at least four weeks prior to the commencement of your program.

  For indicative fees and information on how to pay, including Government loan schemes and our online calculator, visit our Fees, costs and scholarships page.

• More information

  Considering your uni options?
  Our advisors provide support while choosing a program of study and completing our application process.

  If you need advice about studying at Notre Dame, the Prospective Students Office can help. Book a 1-on-1 advice session with a career advisor or call us on 1800 878 916.

  Fremantle and Broome
  Email: future@nd.edu.au
  Address: 23 High St, Fremantle, WA 6160

  Sydney and Melbourne
  Email: sydney@nd.edu.au
  Address: 128-140 Broadway, Chippendale, NSW 2008

  International students
  If you need advice about studying at Notre Dame, fill out our Make an Enquiry form, and you can book a session with one of our friendly International Student Advisors.

  Fremantle and Broome International Office
  Phone: +61 8 9433 0873
  Address: 19 Mouat St, Fremantle, WA 6160
  Postal address: PO Box 1225, Fremantle WA 6959

  Sydney and Melbourne International Office
  Phone: +61 2 8204 4229
  Address: 140 Broadway, Chippendale, NSW 2008
  Postal address: PO Box 944, Broadway NSW 2007