Graduate Diploma in Architecture

The Graduate Diploma in Architecture is a pathway qualification for students who have already completed an undergraduate degree in a field other than architecture.

Students study for 2 semesters full time to acquire foundation knowledge in design, history, construction technology, communications, and urban sustainability.

After completion of the Graduate Diploma in Architecture, approved students may then continue on to the accredited Master of Architecture (SD-93017) four-semester professional program.

Students may commence the program in either January or May.

The Graduate Diploma is delivered in a creative studio-based environment focusing heavily upon design through hands-on and digital making with state-of-the-art tools.

Project-based design studios focus upon real-world scenarios with specific attention to fundamentals of architectural design including materiality, landscape, and/or spatial atmospheres.

Graduates will display foundation skills in architectural design that are creative, critical, analytical, and spatial, as well as basic historical, theoretical, climate/environmental, technical and disciplinary knowledge from core studies.

Both digital and by-hand skills in drawing, physical making, and rapid prototyping are introduced in workshops, seminars, and studios.

This program is intended for students who have creative design ability and wish to ultimately pursue a career in architecture or related field.

Students will come from a diverse range of backgrounds, making the experience of the Graduate Diploma of Architecture one that is highly interdisciplinary and diverse in terms of the age, background, and experience levels of the student cohort.

Program structure

The Graduate Diploma in Architecture program is delivered within a comprehensive design studio environment. Each studio contains a combination of practical and professional applications, theoretical studies, technical proficiency and conceptual rigour. 

View the Graduate Diploma in Architecture - Program Structure and Sequencing

Foundation Subjects (80cp)

• Creative Design Studio: Atmosphere
• World Architecture and Urbanism
• Creative Design Studio: Landscape
• Architecture and Urbanism of Asia Pacific
• Urban Futures and Parametric Cities
• BIM and Documentation
• Designing for Sustainable Futures
• Understanding Buildings
• Creative Design Studio: Material
• Materials and Methods
• Design Thinking Through Drawing
• Graphic Design
• Digital Design and Prototyping
• Structures and Materials

Academic entry requirements

Completion of an Australian Bachelor degree or equivalent AND a portfolio of creative work – A4 format submitted electronically as single PDF document not exceeding 10MB. The portfolio should contain a variety of examples chosen from mediums such as drawing (freehand or mechanical), computer-aided design, painting, graphics, photography, sculpture, digital media, design technology, or crafts. The assessors are looking for creativity, imagination and skill so the portfolio should include evidence that illustrates your ability to think and communicate visually, as well as demonstrating any experience you have with a range of media and techniques. The subject matter does not need to be architecture-related. Images should be accompanied with text to explain what is shown and when it was made and clarify if any of the work is not your own (for example, produced by you as a member of a group). A cover page should be included.

Please contact the Office of Future Students for further information.

English language proficiency requirements

As tuition is delivered in English, all students will be required to provide documented evidence of the required level of proficiency in the English language. Read more detailed information on English Language Proficiency Requirements for university study.

Credit for prior study

Subject credits may be awarded for previous studies. To apply for credits, you will need to submit academic transcripts including detailed subject outlines/course descriptions for each relevant subject and/or certified copies of testamurs to the Office of Future Students. Please refer to how to apply for credit for more information

Key dates

Bond University calendar

How to apply

In order to apply for study at Bond University, you will need to complete the Online Application Form. To find out more about the application process please refer to How to Apply.

The role of an architect is changing. Architects of the future are going to be responsible for more than just designing buildings. New technology, innovative ways of designing and imaginative vision means there has never been a more exciting time to be an architect than now. The Abedian School of Architecture is designed to develop the emerging architectural professional to be fearless in their design ability, as well as possess the confidence to change the world and the habitats of the future through their creative design skills, imaginative vision, strategic thinking and technical proficiency.

Professional status is governed at the State level in Australia. Professional registration overseas is governed by the relevant professional authority. Established as a highly flexible and student-focused degree program, students in the Master of Architecture will study for six semesters full time. Studies include content from the disciplines of architecture, digital media, construction, city planning, urban design, and university electives.