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School of Built Environment and Design
Duration
Full Time: 3 Years (Available Part Time)*
Next Start Date
01 March 2027
19 July 2027
Closing Date
Indicative annual fee from $11,885
Additional Information
Program Code: 3753
CRICOS Code: 097540C
Great architecture shapes the way we experience the world.
From sustainable homes and vibrant public spaces to iconic buildings and thriving communities, architects combine creativity, technology and critical thinking to design places that improve how we live. Every project begins with an idea-and the ability to transform that idea into a space that inspires people.
Western's Bachelor of Architectural Design combines studio-based learning with hands-on making, digital technologies and real-world industry experience to prepare you for a career in architecture and the built environment. You'll explore architectural design, spatial thinking, digital modelling, construction technology, history and theory while developing the creative and technical skills used by contemporary architects. The program includes opportunities for internships and work-integrated learning, and provides a pathway to the Master of Architecture (Urban Transformation) for students pursuing registration as an architect.
Graduate with a professional portfolio that demonstrates your creativity, technical capability and ability to design spaces that respond to the challenges of tomorrow.
At Western, we care how you do in all aspects of your life.
Take the next step towards a rewarding career. Secure your spot to start in 2027 at Western.
As an Adobe Creative Campus, Western Sydney University gives all students complimentary access to the Adobe Creative Cloud, so you can level up your digital skills with FREE access to the Adobe Creative Cloud apps. It's like your very own innovation toolkit, where technology meets creativity!
Adobe Creative Cloud is a comprehensive suite of software tools and services which provide a one-stop platform for professionals and enthusiasts in various creative fields, offering a wide range of applications for graphic design, video editing, web development, photography, and more!
From your first year, you'll work in a studio environment where you create, design and prototype ideas, developing the creative and technical skills used by contemporary architects. You'll work on real-world design challenges, collaborate with other students and learn how to communicate your ideas through drawings, models, digital visualisations and presentations.
Bring your ideas to life using contemporary design and fabrication technologies. You'll have opportunities to work with 3D printing, VR and AR, digital fabrication and advanced design software, building practical skills you can apply across architectural practice and developing a professional portfolio throughout your degree.
Western's Architectural Design program has a strong, studio-based model of teaching supported extensively by architectural practitioners. Students gain real-world experience through studio intensives and travel opportunities. With extensive partnerships and industry collaborations, students are immersed in the architecture and design of the region, building a strong portfolio across all scales and complexity.
Western Sydney is one of Australia's fastest-growing regions, creating a living context for exploring the future of architecture and urban design. You'll study in a region experiencing major growth and transformation, giving you a real-world environment in which to consider how buildings, public spaces and communities can become more sustainable, connected and liveable.
Experience with:
Take your design skills beyond the studio through industry projects, workshops and exhibition opportunities. You may have opportunities to participate in design workshops, collaborate with industry and contribute to projects that connect your studies with professional practice.
Sydney Design Week / AMRF
Explore contemporary design and advanced manufacturing through workshops and industry experiences.
Powerhouse
See your work presented in a professional exhibition environment through opportunities connected with Powerhouse.
Industry projects
Apply your skills to real-world design challenges through collaborations with industry partners, including projects such as ResMed.
Students have access to state-of-the-art design studios, digital fabrication labs, and workshops allowing for experimentation with cutting-edge tools and technologies, fostering innovation and practical skills.
Our state-of-the-art Makerspace is where you can bring your ideas to life through hands-on learning. Located in Parramatta CBD, the Engineering Innovation Hub (PEIH) is uniquely positioned to drive cross-disciplinary collaboration, industry partnerships and cutting-edge research in one of Australia’s fastest growing region and an evolving hub for architecture, engineering and construction.
The Bachelor of Architectural Design is a key step toward professional accreditation. Graduates can pursue further studies with the Master of Architecture (Urban Transformation) at Western, which is accredited by the NSW Architects Registration Board and currently appears on the list of Accredited Architecture Qualifications published by the Architects Accreditation Council of Australia. Students who complete the Master of Architecture (Urban Transformation) will be eligible to become registered architects after undertaking relevant practical experience and successfully completing the Architectural Practice Examination.
Western's Bachelor of Architectural Design is ranked in the top 200 in the world for architecture and built environment (QS Subject Rankings 2024).
Throughout your degree, you'll build a professional portfolio that showcases how you think, design, make and solve problems. Your portfolio can include studio projects, physical models, digital designs, visualisations and real-world projects, helping you demonstrate your capabilities to prospective employers and prepare for further study.
The program structure is outlined in our handbook. Here you can view all of the subjects you will be studying.
Graduates work across architecture, urban design, construction, interior architecture and design consultancies. Many continue into the Master of Architecture (Urban Transformation), the next step towards professional registration as an architect.
Below are some examples of the possible careers you can pursue with this degree:
"I chose Western because I found the diversity and culture to be a positive influence on my learning. It helped me provide new opinions and a new judgement to design and how I could influence that to other people."
— Noah Perez, Bachelor of Architectural Design
Applicants who have undertaken studies overseas may have to provide proof of proficiency in English. Local applicants who are applying through the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC) will find details of minimum English proficiency requirements and acceptable proof on the UAC website. Local applicants applying directly to the University should also use the information provided on the UAC website. Find out more here.
Students are required to obtain a General Construction Induction Card (“white card”) to facilitate construction site visits as part of the program. This can be obtained independently or through a coordinated effort of program staff during new student orientation. Detailed information will be provided to students. It is expected Induction Cards will be obtained during the first year of study, and will be a requirement to enrol in Year 2.
Western Sydney University seeks to enhance student learning experiences by enabling students to engage in the culture, expectations and practices of their profession or discipline. This program includes a placement or other community-based unpaid practical experience.
Students are encouraged to take a voluntary placement. Please contact the Course Advisor for information.
Please consult the handbook for more information.
**The Part-time option is not available to International Students on a Student Visa.
Applicants who have undertaken studies overseas may have to provide proof of proficiency in English. Local applicants who are applying through the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC) will find details of minimum English proficiency requirements and acceptable proof on the UAC website. Local applicants applying directly to the University should also use the information provided on the UAC website.
International students currently completing an Australian Year 12 in or outside Australia, an International Baccalaureate in Australia or a New Zealand National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA) level 3 must apply via UAC International.
All other International applicants must apply directly to the University via the International Office.
International students applying to the University through the International Office can find details of minimum English proficiency requirements and acceptable proof on their website.
Overseas qualifications must be deemed by the Australian Education International - National Office of Overseas Skills Recognition (AEI-NOOSR) to be equivalent to Australian qualifications in order to be considered by UAC and Western Sydney University.
Students are required to obtain a General Construction Induction Card (“white card”) to facilitate construction site visits as part of the program. This can be obtained independently or through a coordinated effort of program staff during new student orientation. Detailed information will be provided to students. It is expected Induction Cards will be obtained during the first year of study, and will be a requirement to enrol in Year 2.
Western Sydney University seeks to enhance student learning experiences by enabling students to engage in the culture, expectations and practices of their profession or discipline. This program includes a placement or other community-based unpaid practical experience.
Students are encouraged to take a voluntary placement. Please contact the Course Advisor for information.
Please consult the handbook for more information.
A Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) is one that is subsidised by the Commonwealth and applicable only to Domestic students. This means that the Australian Government pays part of your fees towards your program, therefore reducing your program fees, and the remaining amount is paid by you, this is considered your Student Contribution.
The fee estimates provided are indicative only and subject to change. These estimates are based on the current fee structures for a normal full time study load. However, the final fees may vary depending on several factors, including the specific subjects chosen, the duration and timing of study, and annual fee adjustments (subject to Commonwealth student contribution band rates). Please note that these estimates do not include the Student Services and Amenities Fee. We encourage all prospective and current students to consult with our Student Services Hub for the most current fee information.
As a multi-campus institution, Western Sydney University and its entities reserves the right to alter the location of its programs between campuses and other locations as necessary.
To work out how much your Student Contribution will be before you study, you will first need to find out the Student Contribution band your subjects fit into based on their general discipline area.
You can then calculate your student contributions to work out the total amount of your contribution.
The Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) is a range of loans introduced by the Australian Government from 2005 to provide fee payment assistance to eligible students. Loans are for Australian citizens studying in Australia or overseas. Permanent residents who hold a humanitarian visa are also eligible if studying in Australia.
If eligible you may be able to defer all or part of your Student Contribution through the HECS-HELP loan program. You may also be eligible for OS-HELP if undertaking studies overseas.
New Zealand citizens and holders of an Australian permanent resident visa (other than an Australian permanent humanitarian visa) are generally not entitled to HECS-HELP assistance. If you are a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident your Student Contribution amount must be paid in full by the census date.
However, the Australian Government has passed new legislation that changes the way some New Zealand citizens, who hold a Special Category Visa (SCV), studying in Australia will pay their fees. More information is available on the Changes to fees for New Zealand Citizens webpage.
If you are a domestic student, you can apply through our Western Application system which is free of charge.
Domestic students are:
Western Sydney University recognises and rewards students who demonstrate community engagement, outstanding academic ability and superior leadership skills. Donor-funded scholarships are also available, providing support for students based on both academic achievements and equity considerations. There are also scholarships available for specific degrees.
The fee estimates provided are indicative only and subject to change. These estimates are based on the current fee structures for a normal full time study load. However, the final fees may vary depending on several factors, including the specific subjects chosen, the duration and timing of study, and annual fee adjustments (subject to Commonwealth student contribution band rates). Please note that these estimates do not include the Student Services and Amenities Fee. We encourage all prospective and current students to consult with our Student Services Hub for the most current fee information.
As a multi-campus institution, Western Sydney University and its entities reserves the right to alter the location of its programs between campuses and other locations as necessary.
If you are an international student, you can apply for free through our international student application system or through an agent representative.
International students are:
If you are an international student completing the Australian HSC, IB or NCEA, apply direct via UAC International.
Admission to Western Sydney University is on the basis of meeting minimum academic and English language requirements. For more information about tuition fees and other costs, visit the Fees and Costs page.
When you apply to Western, you’re automatically assessed for a Scholarship, no additional application required! We’re offering multi-year scholarships (for up to 3 years) valued at $6,000 or $3,000 and even 50% off tuition fees. Scholarships are awarded on academic merit.
We've gathered common questions to provide you with quick, clear answers about this program. Whether you're exploring admission requirements, details about the degree or career prospects, you'll find valuable insights here. If you need more information, our support team is ready to assist you on your journey to Western. You can find their details below.
Architectural Design is the creative and technical process of designing buildings and spaces. You'll develop skills in spatial design, digital modelling, construction technology and architectural communication while creating solutions for real-world design challenges.
Western offers a studio-based learning environment where you'll work on authentic design projects, build a professional portfolio and learn from practising architects. You'll also have access to digital fabrication labs, makerspaces and opportunities for industry engagement throughout your degree.
You'll participate in studio projects, design intensives, model making, digital fabrication and work-integrated learning experiences that reflect contemporary architectural practice. Industry partnerships and internship opportunities help you build valuable professional experience before graduation.
Graduates work across architecture, urban design, interior architecture, construction and design consulting.
Graduates may work as:
Yes. The Bachelor of Architectural Design provides the undergraduate qualification required to continue into the Master of Architecture (Urban Transformation). After completing the accredited master's degree, relevant professional experience and the Architectural Practice Examination, graduates may become registered architects.
Absolutely. Model making is an important part of architectural education. Throughout your degree you'll explore physical prototyping alongside digital modelling to communicate and test your design ideas.
Yes. You'll develop digital design skills using contemporary software and have complimentary access to Adobe Creative Cloud as part of Western Sydney University's Adobe Creative Campus initiative.
Yes. The program includes work-integrated learning opportunities, including internships and industry collaborations, helping you build professional networks and real-world experience before you graduate.
Students have access to dedicated design studios, digital fabrication laboratories, workshops and the Parramatta Engineering Innovation Hub Makerspace, providing opportunities to develop practical design and making skills.
Architectural Design focuses on designing buildings, spaces and the built environment. Industrial Design focuses on designing products, furniture, consumer goods and physical experiences. Both degrees emphasise creativity, human-centred design and innovation but apply these skills in different industries.
If you want to design buildings in public spaces, combine creativity with technical design, work towards becoming a registered architect and shape sustainable cities and communities, study Bachelor of Architectural Design.
If you want to design innovative projects, study a Bachelor of Industrial Design (Honours).
Study a Bachelor of Design and Technology if you want to combine creativity with emerging technologies.
We're here to provide clarity.
If you're uncertain about your study journey, enquire about our program today and gain the confidence to move forward.
Australian students
1300 668 370
International students
+61 2 9852 5499
The fee estimates provided are indicative only and subject to change. These estimates are based on the current fee structures for a normal full time study load. However, the final fees may vary depending on several factors, including the specific subjects chosen, the duration and timing of study, and annual fee adjustments (subject to Commonwealth student contribution band rates). Please note that these estimates do not include the Student Services and Amenities Fee. We encourage all prospective and current students to consult with our Student Services Hub for the most current fee information.
As a multi-campus institution, Western Sydney University and its entities reserves the right to alter the location of its programs between campuses and other locations as necessary.
