From the agora of ancient Greece to the high-rises of modern cityscapes – the spaces we create have shaped the way live for thousands of years. Architecture – originally deriving from the Greek word arkhitekton or ‘master builder’ – is a prestigious and important area of expertise; architects today are at the forefront of developing solutions to some of the biggest challenges facing humanity.
Thinking of studying something purposeful and creative but not sure where to start? Studying architecture at Curtin, a top five Australian university and WA’s highest ranked institution for architecture and the built environment, could be a great option for you! In this step-by-step guide, we’ll look at how to actually become an architect in Australia.
Step 1: Begin with the Bachelor of Architectural Science
Your journey as an aspiring architect begins with enrolling in an undergraduate architecture degree. At Curtin, we offer the world-class Bachelor of Applied Science (Architectural Science), a three-year (full-time) course where you’ll begin to delve deep into the fascinating relationship between the natural and constructed environment.
“I was excited to see that Curtin had the best ranking for Architecture in WA and was among the best in Australia. The course structure, focus on industry-readiness and the overall atmosphere at Curtin were also big draw cards. The course also lets you explore all sorts of creative avenues, and the tutors are super supportive in helping you achieve your goals.”
Niamh Aitken-Lombardo, Bachelor of Applied Science (Architectural Science)
If you see yourself working as a building consultant or draftsperson, you can study this degree as a standalone option and graduate ready to start your career. If you want to become a practising architect, this degree is your first step. Next stop: postgraduate study! More on this in step three.
Explore Curtin’s specialisations
Curtin offers a series of exciting specialisations, which allow you to broaden your skills, deepen your knowledge in a different area, and expand job opportunities upon graduation. A specialisation comprises four units that complement your major without extending your course duration. For architecture students, Curtin offers specialisations in construction management, interior architecture, animation and game architecture design, designing fashion and more!
Makerspace and technology
A standout feature in our Bachelor of Applied Science (Architectural Science) is the focus on technology. At Curtin, we have our cutting-edge Makerspace with more than 20 3D printers, 12 laser cutters, CNC mills, and access to wood and metal workshops. Technology is embedded into the architecture units, including artificial intelligence, immersive experiences, and digital fabrication. Our team of highly dedicated and qualified technicians support our students by ensuring they achieve their fabrication and technology goals.
Step 2: Design your student experience
As an architect student, you’ll get to study at Curtin’s award-winning facility for the School of Design and the Built Environment, better known as ‘the DBE’. You’ll be located at the heart of the vibrant Exchange Precinct full of fantastic places to eat and socialise.
Discover Curtin’s clubs and societies
Studying your bachelor at Curtin does not have to be all work and no play. There are plenty of ways to have fun on-and off-campus. Getting involved in the the Curtin Architecture Students Association (CASA) will help you meet like-minded people. You’ll get to collaborate with other aspiring architects during laid-back study sessions and social events. If you’re looking to get involved in your interests outside of architecture, Curtin has more than 100 academic, special interest or issues-based clubs to choose from!
Gain experience with Work-Integrated Learning (WIL)
The School of Design and the Built Environment at Curtin is known for its connections to both national and international industry partners. Our students benefit from opportunities to work with key consultants such as Woods Bagot, Cox, and Hassel. The opportunity to work and connect with industry is built directly into the course, ensuring our students develop industry-ready skills, gain practical experience, and build important connections.
Learn more about WIL opportunities.
GoGlobal with your degree at Curtin
Interested in taking your studies abroad? Curtin has a wide range of global opportunities every year, including semester and year-long study exchange, study tours, internships and practicums, and even virtual internships!
Through the New Colombo Plan (NCP), our students have travelled to countries in the Indo-Pacific region for semester-based study, short programs, internships, and work placements.
In 2023, ten of our Architecture and Interior Architecture students completed a ten-week immersive experience in South Korea. They collaborated with students at Pai Chai University on a project visiting exceptional architectural works and finding innovative and creative design solutions. Our students also completed exciting internships at leading South Korean firms such as Gansam, STPMJ, and NOW.
Be sure to check out Curtin’s GoGlobal interactive map to explore opportunities around the world!
Step 3: Complete your Master of Architecture
Congratulations! You’ve completed your Bachelor of Applied Science (Architectural Science) and you’re ready for the next step. The next building block in becoming an architect in Australia is studying an Architect’s Accreditation Council of Australia (AACA) accredited program. At Curtin, you can choose to study our AACA accredited Master of Architecture.
In this course, you’ll dive into architectural history, theory, management, and law, all while expanding your professional experience. You’ll also embark on a self-directed thesis project in an area of your interest, ensuring that you graduate with cutting-edge research skills and practical knowledge. This degree will elevate your expertise and prepare you to make your mark in the world of architecture.
Did you know? Our Master of Architecture has the highest employability rate in Western Australia!
Step 4: Gain professional registration
The final step to becoming an architect is completing the Architectural Practice Exam (APE) to gain professional registration. Legally, to become a professional architect in Australia, you must register with the relevant state’s Architect’s Board. Here is a breakdown of the APE format according to the Architect’s Board of WA.
4.1. According to the Architects Accreditation Council of Australia (AACA), you must complete a minimum of 3,300 hours (approximately two years) of practical experience, usually under the supervision of a registered architect. These hours are to be recorded in the AACA’S APE logbook and accompanied by a statement of practical experience.
4.2. If you meet the requirements in the previous step, you will be eligible to sit the National Examination Paper (NEP). This is a 70-minute closed book computer-based exam.* The exam involves nine scenarios each comprising five multiple choice questions and is conducted in test centres nominated by the AACA.
4.3 You’re nearly there! Upon successful completion of the NEP, you will receive an invitation to attend the Examination by Interview. You will be interviewed on your previous work and experiences for an hour by two Architects Board of WA examiners.
*Please note that the testing format, such as exam length, varies state-to-state. Check your state’s Architect’s Board for more info.
Step 5: Now, go build your career as an architect!
Congratulations, the time has come to officially to call yourself an architect. A career path that is exciting, dynamic, and influential is calling your name.
Alternatively, if you’re passionate about interior design, Curtin also offers the Bachelor of Applied Science (Interior Architecture) (Honours), sharing many units with the Architectural Science program. With research-informed design in demand, this four-year honours embedded course gives you an advantage when entering the workforce as an interior designer, a colour consultant or even a furniture designer!
Feeling inspired? Explore a universe of opportunities in architecture and the built environment today!
