Explore building construction and performance, project management, and how building materials function. The Master of Architectural Science (MArchSc) combines architectural science research methods and an industry-related project for real-world experience in the field. Learn to manage the development and ongoing performance of the built environment.
Study the MArchSc to learn about key issues in the industry—sustainability, construction law, managing facilities, and the relationship between buildings and their environment. Consider the role of tikanga and mātauranga Māori in architectural design and decision-making.
You’ll also get a practical grounding in how buildings impact on the natural world through their design, construction, operation, and maintenance, with the option to specialise in Project Management or Sustainable Engineering Systems. You’ll prepare for the future of the industry—for digital advances and increased requirements for efficient, sustainable buildings.
From late 2025 these qualifications will have new names*:
The MArchSc is widely recognised by the industry for its excellence and distinctions— it’s professionally recognised by the New Zealand Institute of Building (NZIOB).
It is a great opportunity for professionals working in the construction industry to advance their expertise and career opportunities in the field.
It’s also an ideal pathway for graduates to develop a more unique skillset to advance their career opportunities.
The 180-point Master of Architectural Science (MArchSc) is a twelve-month professional programme that combines coursework in Trimesters 1 and 2 with an industry-related project or practicum in Trimester 3.
You can complete the MArchSc with a specialisation in either:
If you are studying full time, you can expect a workload of 40–45 hours a week and complete your Master’s in one year. Part-time students will need to do around 20–23 hours of work a week. Make sure you take this into account if you will be working while studying.
I liked the idea of Architecture, but the logic and science of the Architectural Science programme drew me to the Postgraduate Diploma, and then onto the Master of Architectural Science.
Full storyGeorgia Alexander
Graduate, Master of Architectural Science
Choose from a selection of qualifications to suit your career goals and availability.
The 180-point Master of Architectural Science (MArchSc) is a one-year professional programme that combines an architectural science research-methods course and an industry-related project or practicum for real-world experience in the field. It is professionally recognised by the New Zealand Institute of Building (NZIOB).
The 120-point Master of Architectural Science (Research) (MArchSc(Res)) thesis programme focuses on self-directed research. Before enrolling in this one-year research thesis, you need to have completed the 120-point Postgraduate Diploma in Architectural Science.
A shorter 60-point Postgraduate Certificate or 120-point Postgraduate Diploma in Architectural Science are also available as earlier exit points or for those already in industry who want to deepen their knowledge with part-time study.
Find out more about your study options. Fill in a form to download our Wellington Faculty of Architecture and Design Innovation handbook.
Download the handbookThe knowledge I gained from studying at the Wellington School of Architecture has helped me immensely. It’s given me the theoretical background of building science which I now use every day in my current role.
Full storyJackson Prattley-Jones
Graduate, Postgraduate Certificate in Architectural Science (Sustainable Engineering Systems)
The Master of Architectural Science gives you unique skills and knowledge that go beyond Bachelor’s learnings or industry experience. It will give you the professional recognition you need to pursue a career in the design and development of our built environment.
You might start your own practice, or work as an employee in a firm or government organisation.
You’ll be qualified to take on leadership roles in the construction and building performance and management sectors.
You could work as a:
You may be able to get a scholarship to help fund your studies.
We have postgraduate and doctoral scholarships available, as well as specialised scholarships for different groups and subject areas.
You can get support to stay on top of your finances by downloading our money management resources or by meeting with one of our student finance advisers.
We can show you how to manage your student loan or allowance, and help you sort out your budget. For students facing financial difficulties, we can help you apply for support from the Hardship Fund. Depending on your situation, you might also be able to get government or community support.
Applications usually open in October and May. Contact soaadmin@vuw.ac.nz to show your interest.
These contracts are decided in negotiation with academics in an area of interest.
Studying as part of the Wellington School of Architecture gives you the unique experience of studying in a broad community of architecture students. We have students in programmes that cover all aspects of the construction industry—across Architecture,Landsacpe, Urban Planning, Architectural Science, and Interior Architecture. The relationships we can make across campus are unique to New Zealand.
The Postgraduate Students’ Association provides a voice for you on campus and information on study at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
Postgraduate students in the Wellington School of Architecture play a vital role in developing high-quality research outputs. Research findings are often presented at national and international conferences and published in peer-reviewed journals. Many of our postgraduate alumni have become industry leaders in their chosen field. You’ll also benefit from the expertise of working professionals through the Faculty’s connections with local industry.
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