Program Overview
This six-month program provides a foundation in building design, including construction principles, architectural drafting, history, and theory. Graduates are qualified for careers in building design, architecture, and related fields. The program also offers a pathway to a Bachelor's degree in Building Design with advanced standing.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
This course provides a recognised qualification within six months, offering a fast track towards a new career in building design. Students will gain a solid foundation in architectural design, architectural history and theory, building design documentation and building construction.
Objectives:
- Evaluate construction systems and materials.
- Prepare working drawings to industry best practice.
- Analyze key world architectural works, their theoretical and cultural context and their relevance to design.
Outline:
Core Units
- Fundamentals of Building Construction: Explores the principles of building construction, materials, and methods.
- Building Design Documentation: Introduces the principles of architectural drafting and the use of industry-standard software.
- Architectural History and Analysis: Examines the history of architecture and architectural theory, and teaches students to analyze and critique architectural works.
Careers:
Graduates of this course can pursue careers in various fields, including working with:
- Registered building practitioners.
- Architects.
- Builders and building designers.
- Surveying bodies.
- Greening bodies.
- Other design professionals.
Pathway to Higher Qualification:
Graduates of this course are guaranteed a place in the Bachelor of Building Design and will receive credit for 48 credit points of study, reducing the time it takes to complete the Bachelor.
For more than 100 years, Victoria University (VU) has offered accessible education to students in Melbourne’s west and beyond. Victoria University aims to continue creating positive outcomes for education, industry and our community into the future.
Services
Housing services
Victoria University is pleased to offer guaranteed accommodation to new and continuing full-time domestic and international students. This offer is in partnership with UniLodge, our accommodation provider.
UniLodge Victoria University offers modern purpose-built student accommodation apartments in Footscray with excellent facilities and a community environment – all within a short walking distance to classes!
Library services
Our online resources are available 24 hours a day from wherever you are. You can also visit any of our seven campus libraries for help with your information needs, access to a PC or a quiet place to study.
Student Life
Campus life
Victoria University has campuses across Melbourne's CBD and western suburbs. International students can also choose to study at VU Sydney, VU India or partner institutions overseas.
Our flagship campus is located in Footscray - study with us in Melbourne's western cultural and creative epicentre.
- City Flinders
- City Flinders Lane
- City King
- City Queen
- Footscray Nicholson
- Footscray Park
- St Albans
- Sunshine
- Werribee
- VU at MetroWest (Footscray)
- VU Sydney
Sports facilities
There are plenty of options for staff and students wanting to join a sporting club and play in local competitions.
Joining a Victoria University sport club helps keep you fit while doing something you love. You will also get to meet new people and maybe do some travelling too.
Student clubs
VU organises a range of activities on- and off-campus, including:
- Orientation Parties
- Annual Ball
- Mental Health training (subsidised)
- Be a Better Human Festival
- De-stress Festival
- Queernival
Entry Requirements:
- Minimum entry criteria include:
- English-language requirements
- academic requirements
- Your work and life experience will also be considered.
Applicants with recent secondary education (within the last 2 years)
- Completion of an Australian Senior Secondary Certificate (VCE or equivalent) including Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English (EAL) or 20 in any other English.
Applicants with vocational education & training (VET/TAFE) study
- Completion of an Australian Advanced Diploma or Diploma (or equivalent). OR
- Completion of the Certificate IV in Tertiary Preparation (or equivalent).
Applicants with higher education study
- Full or partial completion of an Australian Higher Education award (or equivalent). OR
- Completion of two units of Higher Education studies in Construction, Environmental Sustainability, or similar. OR
- Completion of a bridging or enabling course, e.g., Foundation Course or equivalent.
Applicants with work & life experience
- Five years (minimum) work/life experience in Construction, Environmental Sustainability, or similar. OR
- Applicants that completed an Australian Senior Secondary Certificate more than two years ago. PLUS:
- Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English (EAL) or 20 in any other English (or equivalent).
