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University of South Australia (UNISA)

Adelaide , South Australia ,Australia

Master of Design (Design and Construct)

This hands-on postgraduate qualification will equip you with an advanced understanding of the innovative, changing world of design. You will study emerging trends and technologies, contemporary design issues, construction challenges and management.With a strong focus on construction challenges, design principles and client considerations, you will build on your previously acquired knowledge and skill set.  

In addition to fundamental practical skills, a key part of your learning will relate to advanced research skills and you will graduate with the cognitive skills needed to review and analyse research. You will also complete an industry placement as part of your studies.

Advanced Standing :

Applicants who have completed a Master of Architecture are eligible to enter the program with 1.0 EFTSL Advanced Standing and complete the program in 1 year of full time study or equivalent part time study. Applicants must also submit a portfolio of work, curriculum vitae and a written statement of intent.
Applicants who have completed a Bachelor (Honours) degree in a related discipline are eligible to enter the program with 1.0 EFTSL Advanced Standing and complete the program in 1 year of full time study or equivalent part time study. Applicants must also submit a portfolio of work, curriculum vitae and a written statement of intent.
Emerging trends and technologies, contemporary design issues, construction challenges and research are key focuses of this degree. You will also develop design proposals, foster client relations, survey building sites, develop research methodologies, and undertake a substantial research-based project.

The first year will include design research studio classes, a specialised design communication course, courses in architectural practice, research methods, and a choice of electives. Elective choices may include:-

  • Sustainable Urban Design
  • Energy Management for Sustainability
  • Entrepreneurial Foundations
  • Entrepreneurial Commercialisation
  • Aboriginal Futures
  • Aboriginal Health and Wellbeing
  • Law and Land
  • Consumer Culture, Technology and Sustainable Design
  • Introduction to Sustainable Design
  • Principles of Sustainable Design
  • AAD Internship

Campus Information

Adelaide- City West

On the edge of Adelaide’s central business district, City West houses studies in business, law, art, architecture, design, Indigenous cultures and Australian society.

Intakes

  • Feb
  • July

Application Processing Time in Days: 14

Minimum English Language Requirements

English Level Description IELTS (1.0 -9.0) TOEFL IBT (0-120) TOEFL CBT (0-300) PTE (10-90)
Expert 9 120 297-300 86-90
Very Good 8.5 115-119 280-293 83-86
Very Good 8 110-114 270-280 79-83
Good 7.5 102-109 253-267 73-79
Good 7 94-101 240-253 65-73
Competent 6.5 79-93 213-233 58-65
Competent 6 60-78 170-210 50-58
Modest 5.5 46-59 133-210 43-50
Modest 5 35-45 107-133 36-43
Limited 4 32-34 97-103 30-36
Extremely Limited < 4 < 31 < 93 < 30

Job Opportunity Potential

This unique qualification integrates both design and construction. It is particularly relevant for students who wish to pursue careers in areas such as: 

  • architecture (additional study required): design new buildings, and help to restore and conserve old buildings 
  • interior design: design, implement and refurbish interior spaces 
  • civil engineering (additional study required): plan, design and oversee the construction of infrastructure such as roads, railways and bridges 
  • project management: plan, direct and coordinate building projects, and personnel; manage budget .

PSW Opportunity

Bachelor Degree or Masters by Coursework Degree - 2 years - 3 years (Adelaide)

Masters by Research - 3 years - 4 years (Adelaide)

PhD qualification - 4 years - 5 years (Adelaide)

Admission Requirement / Eligibility Criteria

  • Successful completion of a Bachelor degree or Graduate Diploma from a recognised higher education institution, or equivalent, in a related discipline. Applicants must also submit a portfolio of work, curriculum vitae and a written statement of intent.
  • Applicants who have completed the Graduate Diploma in Design from the University of South Australia are eligible to enter the program with 1.0 EFTSL Advanced Standing and complete the program in 1 year of full time study or equivalent part time study, and are not required to submit a portfolio of work and statement of intent.
  • Applicants who have completed a Master of Architecture are eligible to enter the program with 1.0 EFTSL Advanced Standing and complete the program in 1 year of full time study or equivalent part time study. Applicants must also submit a portfolio of work, curriculum vitae and a written statement of intent.
  • Applicants who have completed a Bachelor (Honours) degree in a related discipline are eligible to enter the program with 1.0 EFTSL Advanced Standing and complete the program in 1 year of full time study or equivalent part time study. Applicants must also submit a portfolio of work, curriculum vitae and a written statement of intent.

Related design disciplines include: architecture; planning and urban design.