Bachelor of Architectural Design

Capitalise on the change and growth taking place in Western Sydney by undertaking our innovative Bachelor of Architectural Design. This degree directly relates architectural design problems to urban transformation of contemporary cities, preparing students for global employment by giving them the technological and intellectual skills to create sustainable, resilient, and well designed environments.

Bachelor of Architectural Design

Duration

Full Time: 3 Years (Available Part Time)*

Next Start Date

02 March 2026

20 July 2026

Closing Date

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LSR
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Parramatta City UAC 722547
70
Domestic Student Fees
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Indicative annual fee from $11,885

Additional Information

Program Code: 3753

CRICOS Code: 097540C

Architecture at Western

The Bachelor of Architectural Design focuses on a studio-based education that fosters creative thinking, hands-on making, collaboration, and interdisciplinary learning.

You will be provided with a combination of the skills and knowledge required by contemporary architects, including studies in spatial design, graphic communication, history and theory of architecture, digital design and fabrication, and construction technology.

For students looking to become registered architects, this program prepares students for the Master of Architecture (Urban Transformation) program.

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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!

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 University is the Foundation University Partner of Powerhouse Parramatta, offering the next generation of architects, engineers, designers and creatives unique learning opportunities to contribute to the innovation, research and delivery of this cultural landmark.

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).

What you can expect to study

The program structure is outlined in our handbook. Here you can view all of the subjects you will be studying.

Career Opportunities

As a graduate of this degree, you can look forward to a broad range of exciting career opportunities in different sectors and industries. Below are some examples of the possible careers you can pursue with this degree:

  • Architecture
  • Industrial design
  • Urban planning
  • Interior Architecture
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Testimonial

"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

B Psychological and Social Sciences

Entry requirements for domestic students

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.

Admission

  • Recommended ATAR: 65 or equivalent
  • Assumed knowledge: HSC English Standard (or higher), and Science and/or Mathematics (Band 4 or above).
  • Recommended studies: Art, design, technology, and/or professional studies.
  • Alternate Entry: Entry by review of creative PDF portfolio of works is also possible where academic requirements are not met. Find out more here.

Special Requirements Prerequisites

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.

Work Integrated Learning

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.

B Psychological and Social Sciences

Entry requirements for international students

**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.

Admission

  • Recommended ATAR: 85 or equivalent
  • Assumed knowledge: HSC English Standard (or higher), and Science and/or Mathematics (Band 4 or above).
  • Recommended studies: Art, design, technology, and/or professional studies.
  • Alternate Entry: Entry by review of creative PDF portfolio of works is also possible where academic requirements are not met. Find out more here.

Special Requirements Prerequisites

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.

Work Integrated Learning

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.

Indicative annual fee

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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.

Find out more about HECS-HELP

Find out more about OS-HELP

Apply as a Domestic Student

If you are a domestic student, you can apply through our Western Application system which is free of charge.

Domestic students are:

  • Australian Citizens
  • New Zealand Citizens
  • Australian permanent residents
  • Australian permanent humanitarian visa holders

Scholarships

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. 

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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.

Apply as an International Student

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:

  • Not an Australian citizen;
  • Not a New Zealand citizen; and
  • Not a permanent resident of Australia.

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.

Scholarships

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.

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Want to know more?

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

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Kingswood campus

OTHER STUDY OPTIONS

Bachelor of Industrial Design

Full Time: 4 Years (Available Part Time)*

Bachelor of Construction Technology

Full Time: 3 Years

Bachelor of Construction Management (Honours)

Full Time: 4 Years (Available Part Time)*

Bachelor of Design and Technology

Full Time: 3 Years (Available Part Time)*

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.