Study Architecture in AustraliaArchitectural Education in The Sun Shine Author Prof Lindsay Johnson University of Newcastle
The australian BArch degree is of a comparable standard and content to the MArch degrees now being offered in Singapore and Hong Kong. Australian architecture courses are similar to the British structure and are, in most cases, specifically focused on the subject of architecture, unlike many US courses where there are many variations and options, some derived from non-architecture based first degrees followed by a professional degree. The simple Australian structure leading to the uniform 'Bachelor of Architecture' is clearly understood and recognised by professional institutes and employers internationally. The current currency exchange situation in SE Asia has seen the Australian dollar falling in value against the US dollar and British pound thus improving Australia's international competitiveness against both these countries as an education destination. In addition to the traditional catchment of SE Asia, from where thousands of architecture students have gone to Australia over several decades, there is a growing presence in Australia of European, African and North American
students who perceive Australia as an attractive and cost effective base for their tertiary study. In general, personal security is excellent across Australia, the weather is beautiful and there are splendid cities, landscapes and natural amenities.
Lindsay Johnston is Chair of the National Education Committee of the Royal
Australian Institute of Architects and
Associate Professor of Architecture at the University of Newcastle, NSW, Australia
University of Newcastle
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In all Australian Universities the principal professional degree for architects is the 'Bachelor of Architecture' (BArch) which is based on a five year full-time academic program. In some schools there is a two year degree structure offering a first degree such as 'Batchelor of Science Architecture' or 'Bachelor of Environmental Design' after three years, followed by two years to the 'BArch' degree. These first degrees are not sufficient for admission to registration as an architect but they are recognised by employers for employment as an 'architectural assistant'. Most Universities offer advanced standing for students arriving from overseas with prior tertiary qualifications such as Polytechnic Diplomas or preliminary architectural studies.
Although uniformly accredited within Australia, the fifteen recognised courses vary widely in there individual structure and educational methodologies. it pays to inquire into the characteristics of each program and the facilities available. Some have an emphasis on scolarship and research; others are 'avant garde' and have a theoretical basis; others have a pragmatic or practical emphasis focused on the education of the future practising profess