Top 10 Architecture Colleges in Australia 2025

When students think of studying architecture abroad, countries like the US, UK, and Canada often top the list. However, Australia is an underrated gem for future architects. With its innovative design approach, climate-responsive architecture, and strong industry demand, Australia is quickly becoming a leader in architectural education. This article explores why studying architecture in Australia is a smart, future-focused choice.

Why study Architecture in Australia?

• Australia has pioneered some of the most climate-resilient and sustainable architecture in the world. Universities here don’t just teach architecture; they shape architects who can design for the future.
• Universities like RMIT and UNSW integrate digital fabrication, AI-driven modeling, and immersive VR design labs. Students work on real city projects, gaining industry experience before graduation.
• Architecture programs in Australia cost 20-30% less than in the US.
• While many countries follow traditional architectural practices, Australia is an experimental playground for future architects. And its $130+ billion construction sector actively seeks skilled architects.

Top Universities offering Architecture Courses in Australia

Here is a list of some of the best universities in Australia as per the QS Ranking, which offer both bachelor’s and master’s level programs in Australia: 

• Picture
  University Name
  Courses
  University Details
   

• 

  RMIT University
  Bachelor of Architectural Design
  Master of Architecture
  Full- time
  On- Campus
  Duration: 3 years(B)/ 2 years(M)
  Fees: A$ 50,880(B)/ A$48,960(M) annually
  Intakes: Feb, Jul
  QS Rank: 18
  Get Details

• 

  The University of Melbourne
  Bachelor of Design (Architecture Major)
  Master of Architecture
  Master of Architectural Engineering
  Full- time/ Part- time
  On campus
  Duration:3 years(F)/ 6 years(P)
  Fees: A$41,668-$55,676(B)/ A$52,992(M) annually
  Intakes: Feb, Mar, Jul
  QS Rank: =24
  Get Details

• 

  The University of Sydney
  Bachelor of Architecture & Environments
  Bachelor of Design in Architecture
  Master of Architecture
  Double Degree: Bachelor of Design in Architecture (H) & Master of Architecture
  Full- time/ Part- time
  On- campus
  Duration: 3 years(B)/ 2 years(M)/ 5 years(D)
  Fees: A$ 50,000/ A$ 45,800(M)
  Intakes: Feb, Aug
  QS rank: 27
  Get Details

• 

  The University of New South Wales (UNSW)
  Master of Architecture
  Bachelor of Architectural Studies
  Full time
  On- campus/ blended
  Duration: 3 years(B)/ 2 years(M)
  Fees: A$ 9,500 annually
  Intakes: Feb, Jun
  QS Rank: 35
  Get Details

• 

  Curtin University
  Bachelor of Applied Science (Architectural Science)
  Master of Architecture
  Full- time
  On- campus
  Duration: 3 years(B)/ 2 years(M)
  Fees: A$ 18,124(B)/ A$ 18,811(M) full
  Intakes: Feb, Jul
  QS rank: 51- 100
  Get Details

• 

  Queensland University of Technology
  Bachelor of Architectural Design
  Master of Architecture
  Full- time/ Part- time
  On- campus/ Online
  Duration: 3- 6 years(B)/ 2 years- 4 years(M)
  Fees: A$ 9,800(B)/ A$ 10,400(M) annually
  Intakes: Feb, Jul
  QS Rank: 51- 100
  Get Details

• 

  The University of Queensland
  Bachelor of Architectural Design
  Master of Architecture
  Full- time
  On- campus/ Online
  Duration: 3 years(B)/ 2 years(M)
  Fees: A$ 47,200
  Intakes: Feb Jul
  QS Rank:51- 100
  Get Details

• 

  University of Technology, Sydney
  Bachelor of Design in Architecture
  Full- time/ Part- time
  On- campus/ Online
  Duration: 3 years- 6 years
  Fees: A$ 129,456
  Intakes: Feb, Jul
  QS Rank:51- 100
  Get Details

• 

  Deakin University
  Bachelor of Design (Architecture)
  Master of Architecture
  Full time
  On campus
  Duration: 3 years(B)/ 1.5- 2 years(M)
  Fees: A$ 40,500(B)/ A$41,600(M) annually
  Intakes: Jul, Oct, May
  QS Rank: 101- 150
  Get Details

• 

  Monash University
  Bachelor of Architectural Design
  Master of Architecture
  Double Degree: Bachelor’s + Master’s
  Bachelor’s of Engineering (H) & Bachelor’s of Architectural Design
  Full- time
  On- campus
  Duration: 2- 3 years/ 5 years(double degree)
  Fees: A$49,800- A$56,300 annually
  Intakes: Feb, Jul
  QS Rank: 101- 150
  Get Details

Eligibility Requirements

• For Undergraduate: A minimum of one year of tertiary study– university/ college/ vocational school undertaken in a design discipline(architecture, interior design, industrial design, landscape architecture, graphic design, art or fashion design) or equivalent. 
• For Postgraduate: A Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Architecture or similar field with a minimum of 2.5 GPA or above.
• Some universities like UNSW may compensate for your GPA requirements if you have relevant work experience in this field.
• A design portfolio (if required) including your sample works from various stages of your previous degree and any professional work
• English Language Requirements: You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency depending on your educational background and citizenship. 
  • IELTS: A minimum overall band of 6.5 or above
  • TOEFL : A minimum overall score of 79 or above
  • Pearson Test of English: A minimum score of 58 or above
  • Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE): A minimum of 176 or above

Documents Required

• Academic Documents
• Portfolio
• English Language Proficiency Proofs
• Entrance test proof like ACCA (if needed)
• Statement of Purpose
• Letters of Recommendation
• Resume/ CV
• Proof of Identity
• Application form & fee payment receipt

You will need a Subclass 500- Student Visa to study in Australia.

How to study Architecture in Australia?

• Choose a Program & University – Select a Bachelor of Architecture (BArch) or Master of Architecture (MArch) from accredited Australian universities.
• Meet Academic Requirements – Bachelor’s or Master’s, whatever you choose, make sure you match the eligibility requirements. Don’t forget the language test requirement.
• Prepare a Portfolio – Show creative skills through design work, drawings, and projects, especially for postgraduate admissions. 
• Check Entry Tests/Interviews – Some universities may require an entrance test or interview. Make sure you thoroughly go through the requirements and prepare accordingly.
• Apply Through the University Website – Submit an online application with transcripts, SOP, LORs, and portfolio.
• Apply for a Student Visa (Subclass 500) – Once accepted, apply for a visa with your Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE).

How much does it cost to study architecture in Australia?

Studying Architecture in Australia can slightly lean towards the expensive side but it does seem to be a valuable investment. And there are numerous scholarships to help you with the fees, some covering 20%- 30% or even fully funded. Here is a breakdown of the cost of studying architecture in Australia:

• Tuition Fees: Tuition fees in the top universities can range anywhere from A$9,800- A$55,000 for Bachelors and between A$10,000- A$ 50,000 for masters. There are many double degree programs also which may reduce your overall cost.
• Living Costs: The cost of living in Australia varies depending on the city and lifestyle, with major cities like Sydney and Melbourne being more expensive than Adelaide or Brisbane. On average, international students need around AUD 24,505 per year, as per visa requirements, to cover expenses.
• Other Mandatory costs: International students in Australia must cover several mandatory costs beyond tuition and living expenses like the Student Visa (Subclass 500), Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), Transport expenses and study materials, including books and field trips for study.

Scholarships to study Architecture in Australia

Checkout the following scholarships offered by the above australian universities to study architecture in Australia.

Academic Merit Scholarship

The Academic Merit Scholarship by RMIT University is open to all international students interested to study at any levels in the university. Students from Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, or Vietnam are eligible.

• Offered by: RMIT University
• Amount: 20% of fee reduction
• Application Timeline: You need to submit an application for admission at RMIT by the deadline. 
• Application Procedure: No separate application is required for scholarship.

Academic Excellence International Scholarship

The Academic Excellence International Scholarship at the UTS, Sydney is a merit- based scholarship for all international students offering a reduction in tuition fee for the duration of their studies.

• Offered by: UTS, Sydney
• Amount: 30% of the tuition fee
• Application Timeline: There is no separate application for scholarship, but make sure you submit your admission application form before the deadline.
• Application Procedure: All the students commencing their studies at UTS will be automatically considered.

Find more Scholarships for International Students in Australia.

Are there Architecture jobs in Australia?

Yes! Architecture jobs in Australia are in high demand, thanks to the country’s growing construction industry, urban expansion, and focus on sustainable design. Some of the high- demand Architecture jobs in Australia include:

FAQs