Faculty of Architecture and Design

postgraduate diploma in architecture history and theory

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Programme Overview

Our programme applies theory and precedent to the critical analysis of architectural issues focussing on the historical, social, political and critical contexts of how and why we design buildings and spaces.

It provides a theory based qualification in the built environment sector, for students who do not wish to pursue our professionally orientated postgraduate programmes. It also provides a pathway into the one year theory-focussed Master of Architecture.

It offers a unique opportunity to make interdisciplinary connections through the sampling of courses from all the specialisations within the built environment - architecture, building science, interior architecture and landscape architecture.

You take a range of lecture based courses on historical and theoretical topics, which analyse architectural, archaeological and historical material in a fresh way.

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Duration

One year of full-time study or up to four years part-time.


Admission Requirements

Entry into the Postgraduate Diploma in Architecture History and Theory (PGDipAHT) normally requires one of the following:

  • a New Zealand Bachelor’s degree
  • an equivalent qualification
  • acceptance by the Head of School as capable of proceeding with the proposed course of study.

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Diploma Requirements

The following tables identify how to build your course of study to reflect the 120 points required for this Diploma:

SARC 451 Critical Theory of the Designed Environment 15 pts
SARC 491 Research Methodologies 15 pts

One of the following:

ARCI 451 Architecture Theory and Criticism 15 pts
INTA 451 Interior Architecture Theory and Criticism 15 pts
LAND 451 Landscape Architecture Theory and Criticism 15 pts

An additional three from the following:

ARCI 451 Architecture Theory and Criticism 15 pts
INTA 451 Interior Architecture Theory and Criticism 15 pts
LAND 451 Landscape Architecture Theory and Criticism 15 pts
SARC 452 History of the City in Landscape 15 pts
SARC 453 Architecture History 15 pts
SARC 454 Interior Heritage Conservation 15 pts

You will need to select an additional 30 points from course codes ARCI, INTA, LAND, SARC, in courses numbered 400-499 in approved courses from the Head of School.

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Career Opportunities

Students who complete the postgraduate diploma may continue their study in architecture history and theory with the one-year Master of Architecture thesis programme.

The skill you will gain can be utilised in a range of careers, such as:

  • architectural conservator
  • archivist
  • critic or writer
  • curator
  • historian
  • librarian
  • museum researcher.

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How to Find out More

The Faculty of Architecture and Design Student Administration Office offer additional information on:

  • admission
  • qualifications and courses
  • course advice and selection criteria
  • exemptions and prerequisites
  • your Application to study.

Architecture History and Theory courses are taught at the School of Architecture, Te Aro Campus, 139 Vivian Street, Wellington.

For further assistance, please contact us:

Phone: 04 463 6200
Email: address

For information on what is available to you as a Master’s student see PostgradLife.