Bachelor of Architectural Studies
Christchurch, New Zealand
Bachelor's degree
DURATION
3 years
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
04 Jan 2026*
EARLIEST START DATE
16 Feb 2026
TUITION FEES
NZD 26,572 / per year **
STUDY FORMAT
On-Campus
* international close date: please enquire
** Indicative student services fee: $370.50/year / Insurance fees also apply
Ara welcomes international students to join us for a semester abroad (or longer) for a transformative experience of studying in Ōtautahi Christchurch, a living case study of a revitalised, resilient city.
Christchurch, New Zealand, a city reborn from the devastation of earthquakes and tragedy, stands as a living testament to resilience and innovation. This remarkable transformation offers a unique case study for exploring resilient cities.
Ara Institute of Canterbury has been a driving force in Christchurch's recovery. Our graduates and academics have played pivotal roles in the city's rebuild, leveraging their expertise in sustainability, architecture, and design engineering to create a brighter future.
During your studies, we will take you through foundation studies in drawing, computer-aided design, building design and related sciences. You will also study building legislation and codes as they relate to architecture.
They may be options to also specialise in architectural technology with a focus on technological subjects such as: Construction and Technology, Architecture Science or Computer-aided Design.
Ara is pleased to be able to assist students financially with a range of scholarships and grants.
We encourage you to make the most of these opportunities, which can save you thousands on fees, help you get through unexpected financial hardship, or facilitate experiences and special projects that increase learning outcomes.
Level 5
Core courses
- Architectural Communication 1
- Architectural Communication 2
- Architectural Design Studio 1
- Architectural Design Studio 2
- Critical History of Architecture 1
- Architectural Technology 1
- Architectural Technology 2
Level 6
Core courses
- Architectural Communication 3
- Architectural Design Studio 3
- Architectural Design Studio 4
- Critical History of Architecture 2
- Architectural Technology 3
- Architectural Technology 4
Elective course(s)
- Programming of Commercial Construction Projects
- Sustainable Rating Tools and Natural Materials
- Restoration and Conservation
- Special Topic 1
- Urban Design Studio 1
Level 7
Core courses
- Architectural Design Studio 5
- Architectural Design Studio 6
- Critical History of Architecture 3
- Architectural Industry Practice
Elective course(s)
- Building Information Modelling (BIM)
- Applied Sustainability
- Special Topic 2
- Urban Design Studio 2
- Architectural CAD with Revit
- BIM Systems and Technologies
On completion of this qualification, you will have gained dual knowledge in both the technical and the design aspects of the built environment.
Career opportunities include working as team members in an established architectural practice, and eventually setting up your own practice, or choosing to continue your studies to become a registered architect.
Study pathways
You can apply to staircase into a five-year Bachelor of Architecture or higher degree, at another institute to become a Registered Architect.
Recommended school subjects
- Art
- Graphics
- Design
- Photography
- Painting
- English
- Mathematics
- Physics
You will be part of a friendly, inclusive community
Ara is a culturally and socially diverse community where you will enjoy a sense of belonging. You will be treated as an individual (our class sizes are small, so your tutors will know you by name) and you will be supported with an extensive range of student services and specialist support staff.
Our qualifications are world-class class
Ara is a Category 1 institute, the highest rating awarded by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA). All of our qualifications are NZQA-approved and recognised internationally. Ara graduates can be found working and making a difference around the globe.
Our tutors are experts
Our tutors come from the industry and have years of on-the-job experience in their speciality area. They are committed to sharing their knowledge with you and inspiring you to achieve your study goals.
We focus on hands-on, real-life learning
Ara is known for its practical, hands-on programmes. You will learn in environments that mimic real workplaces and undertake some form of work-based learning like an internship, industry project or work placement.
You will be work-ready when you graduate
All that you do and learn at Ara will ensure your transition to the workplace is seamless and that you have the confidence and capability to contribute from your first day on the job.