ObjectivesThe Graduate Diploma course investigates the wide range of issues pertinent to the practice and study of architecture in contemporary culture and society. We foster a diversity of choice, interpretation and direction both in the project work and more academic research. The course focus is extended to confront more sophisticated design programmes (whether in formal, technical, professional or urban terms) that require a rigorous and self-critical approach. A specialised investigation into architecture and its historical or theoretical contexts may take the form of speculative projects or research related to writing a dissertation. You will possess a high degree of self-motivation commensurate with a postgraduate level of study. The Graduate Diploma has three principal objectives: to develop your ability as an architectural designer through project based experimentation within a studio unit of your choice; to present a constructive and rigorous intellectual evaluation and critique of your work in a broad cultural context, and in terms of the exacting technical, economic and legal restraints of contemporary architectural practice; and to encourage an articulate explanation and representation of the quality and value of your design work.
Entry requirementsYou are required to have obtained exemption from the RIBA Part I Examination, and have at least one year’s professional experience in order to be considered for Diploma. At the interview you should present your academic portfolio, together with examples of work undertaken during professional training and any relevant contextual work.
Academic titleGraduate Diploma Architecture
Course descriptionIntroduction
The content of the course, in terms of design, cultural context, applied technology and professional studies, meets the requirements of the RIBA Part II examination
Teaching and Assessment
Teaching
Whilst having mandatory requirements, the course encourages individual project work and research within its structure. Part-time study is possible by selecting modules that allow you to integrate study with part-time employment.
Computing
A digital representation course is run during the first year (for students at all skill levels). Design work is developed in the digital realm in all studios. In addition to a well equipped state-of-the-art CAD lab, a complete new suite of computers has been installed in the design studios, to the highest specification and with all the latest software; together, these facilities offer a wide range of drawing, graphics and video applications.
Specialisms
The course continues to respond to the developing interests and associated skills required of contemporary architecture. Design studio units explore a range of topics and architectural approaches. The History and Theory course has increasingly focused on the social and cultural analysis of architecture and cities.
Student Exchange
The Graduate Diploma course has established an exchange programme with RMIT Australia.