Program Overview

Master of Architectural Design Management

The Master of Architectural Design Management is a one-year taught master's degree at level 9, focusing on design management and development throughout the early stages of construction projects.

Programme Overview

This programme is suitable for architecture, construction, and engineering graduates. It has a strong focus on innovation and sustainability to empower students to contribute to a sustainable future in the construction industry.

Key Features

• Programme code: AK1350
• Level: 9
• Points: 120
• Duration: 1 year full-time / part-time available
• Campus: City Campus
• Courses will be delivered as block courses, supported by online learning activities
• Starts: 13 Jul 2026

Fees

• Domestic: $11,851.60 (for 120 points) ($10,630 tuition fees + $1,221.60 student services levy)
• International: $52,321.60 (for 120 points) ($51,100 tuition fees + $1,221.60 student services levy)
• Fees shown are based on a full-time workload for the points indicated next to the fee.
• The exact fee charged will depend on which courses you select at the time of enrolment.
• Fees are subject to change year to year.

Entry Requirements

• Minimum entry requirements:
  • One of the following or equivalent with a B grade average or higher in level 7 courses:
    • Relevant bachelor's degree with honours
    • Relevant bachelor's degree and one year of advanced study
    • Relevant bachelor's degree and relevant experience deemed equivalent to one year of advanced study
• International student entry requirements:
  • English language requirements: IELTS (Academic) 6.5 overall with all bands 6.0 or higher; or equivalent

What You Will Study

You will learn to lead multidisciplinary design teams to successfully deliver integrated design outcomes for construction projects, review design and engineering management activities on tenders and projects, evaluate and optimise design management processes, and develop an understanding of the financial, legal, contractual, and organisational aspects related to the design phase of construction projects.

Courses

• ARCH805 Architectural Practice IV: Business and Entrepreneurship (15 points)
• ENBU826 Integration and Scope Management (15 points)
• ENBU827 Innovation in Architecture Engineering and Construction (15 points)
• ENGE813 Advanced Integrated Project Management (15 points)
• ENBU995 Project in Architectural Design Management (45 points)
• And choose one of:
  • ARCH804 Architectural Practice III: Project Delivery (15 points)
  • ENBU814 Advanced Built Environment (15 points)
  • ENBU820 Law for Construction Management (15 points)

Career Opportunities

As a graduate of the Master of Architectural Design Management, you will be well-prepared for roles like:

• Design manager or coordinator
• Architectural project manager
• Project manager or coordinator

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the Master of Architectural Design Management? It's a one-year taught master's degree at level 9, focusing on design management and development throughout the early stages of construction projects.
• How is design management different from architecture and construction management? Design management focuses on leading multidisciplinary design teams and managing the definition, development, and review of design during the crucial early stages of construction projects, before handing the project over to the on-site construction project delivery team.
• Where else can I study this programme in New Zealand? You can't. The new Master of Architectural Design Management is unique in New Zealand, although there are equivalent offerings around the world in the US, Australia, and the UK.
• What key skills and knowledge will I gain from this programme? You learn to lead multidisciplinary design teams, review design and engineering management activities, evaluate and optimise design management processes, and understand the financial, legal, and contractual aspects of the design phase of construction projects.
• How is the programme delivered? Courses are delivered as block courses, with two two-day on-campus sessions per 15-point course, supported by online learning activities and guest lectures from industry experts.
• Are students with a three-year architecture degree and work experience eligible for this programme? Yes, students with a three-year degree and relevant work experience will be considered.
• Is work experience in architecture or construction needed? In short, yes. Our team at AUT has extensive experience of delivering this type of professional qualification. We want to ensure that you have the best possible outcome for your studies which ultimately means gaining employment after graduation. Experience is central to your employability. That is why relevant work experience is an important entry requirement and essential for ensuring a successful outcome for your studies.
• I'm not sure my grades are good enough or my work experience is sufficient. What should I do? Apply now. All applications are considered and assessed carefully to take into account your unique set of qualifications and experience. Extensive experience can often make up for slightly lower grades.
• What career roles can I pursue after graduating from this programme? As a graduate, you will be well-prepared for roles as a design manager or coordinator, architectural project manager, or project manager or coordinator.
• Does this programme offer post-study work rights for international students? Yes, completion of this level 9 master's degree provides graduates with a three-year visa with post-study work rights, making it an attractive proposition in the current marketplace.
• Can I work while I study? Yes, you can work up to 20 hours a week during the semester and full-time during your semester breaks.