At-a-glance 

Name: Graduate Diploma in Designed Environments 

Abbreviation: GDipDE

Duration: 2 trimesters 

Duration details: 2 trimesters of full-time study or normally 4 if studied part time

Schedule: Lectures and studio-based research

Intensity: Part time and full time

Type: Coursework 

Study at: On-campus (Te Aro, Wellington)

Complete: 120 points (approximately 7 courses)

Entry: Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Architectural Studies, Building Science or Design Innovation, with a B average

Start: Trimester 1

Apply by: Standard trimester dates

Costs: From database for international only at this stage

Impact of previous university study in same subject: Requires

Entry requirements

To be accepted into this programme you'll need:

• A Bachelor of Architectural Studies, Bachelor of Architecture, Bachelor of Building Science or a Bachelor of Design Innovation
• Acceptance by the relevant Head of School of Architecture as capable of proceeding with the proposed course of study

Programme requirements

For this programme you’ll need to:

Complete at least 120 points, of which:

• At least 75 points must be from courses at 300 level or above

Important information

• The academic Calendar is the authoritative source of programme and course information.
• If you have questions talk to a liaison officer. If you’re already a student here, contact a student adviser.

Subject requirements

If you want to specialise in one of the following subjects, in addition to the programme requirements, you'll need to:

Architecture

Get the theoretical and practical knowledge to design and construct the places and spaces we use every day. Learn how to consider historical and environmental issues and solve problems using the latest materials, technologies and design systems.

Complete three courses:

• ARCI 311
• ARCI 312
• Either SARC 321 or SARC 351

Architecture History and Theory

Study historical, social and political issues across architecture. You’ll consider how and why we design buildings, and find and interpret original information from historical and archaeological sources.

Complete three courses from:

• SARC 351
• SARC 352
• SARC 353
• SARC 354

Interior Architecture

Learn to apply architectural principles to the design of interior spaces in different settings. You'll develop your ability to communicate ideas using a range of media, to a range of clients with varying needs. Gain the skills required to pursue a career in furniture design, installation work and exhibition design, or as a professional interior architecture specialist.

Complete three courses:

• INTA 311
• INTA 312
• Either INTA 321 or INTA 323

Landscape Architecture

Get the skills to create engaging and functional outdoor spaces. You'll develop an understanding of your role as an architect in caring for the environment and enhancing it through design, with particular attention to New Zealand's landscape. In planning for future development, you'll look at things like how to manage flood risk or creating a long-term development plan for a city.

Complete three courses:

• LAND 311
• LAND 312
• LAND 321

Project Management

Study Project Management and get the skills to manage a construction project, including contract management and effective communication. You’ll also be able to navigate both construction and environmental law and understand issues around supply, demand and competition.

Complete three courses:

• BILD 361
• BILD 362
• One course from:
  • BILD 322
  • BILD 364
  • SARC 321
  • SARC 362

Sustainable Engineering Systems

Get the practical and theoretical knowledge you need to work in the design and construction of durable, healthy and sustainable buildings. You’ll develop the skills to design systems that include the efficient use of sustainable materials.

Complete three courses:

• BILD 321
• BILD 331
• One course from:
  • BILD 322
  • BILD 364
  • SARC 321
  • SARC 362