Advanced Diploma of Building Design (Architectural)

2.5 years full-time

Midyear entry: 2 years full-time

Full-fee places only available at midyear.

Learning and teaching

RMIT offers a variety of learning and teaching approaches including lectures, seminars, studios, workshops, presentations, group discussions and syndicate work. These are primarily in English.

You will have access to the Learning Hub and other online and digital resources through the myRMIT student portal.

Ongoing assessment throughout the semester includes examinations, essays, reports, oral classes, presentations, group projects, research projects, laboratory projects and practical assignments.

Program structure

You will develop knowledge and skills in the areas of building design, digital presentation and documentation for buildings using a range of software platforms. You'll also focus on:

• construction processes
• environmental sustainability
• materials technology
• building services
• associated planning and building regulations codes and standards.

This hands-on, project-based program develops knowledge and skills in purpose-designed, supervised facilities, complemented by site excursions to give context to classroom-based learning.

During the 2.5 years of study, you'll develop a broad knowledge of residential, commercial and complex building types.

The following program structure(s) is an example of what students are currently studying in this program.

The program has strong industry connections and enjoys the support of the Building Designers Association of Victoria (BDAV) through student membership, scholarships, design competition and awards.

RMIT University is committed to providing you with an education that strongly links formal learning with professional or vocational practice.

Graduates are placed in architectural practices, building and building design offices.

If you plan to register as a building practitioner and practice as a sole practitioner, you'll need to meet the requirements set out in the Building Amendment Regulations 2009 to qualify to register in the category Building Design DP-AD (Architectural). Graduates of an Advanced Diploma in building design from a course accredited under the Education and Training Reform Act 2006 need to complete 1 year's practical experience supervised by a registered architect, builder or building designer to the satisfaction of the Building Practitioners Board.

Professional Recognition and Accreditation

The program is a state-accredited and nationally recognised qualification that enables graduate building designers to work for registered building practitioners, architects and other design professionals in related industries.

The Advanced Diploma of Building Design (Architectural) is required by the Building Practitioners Board to register to practice as a building designer in the state of Victoria.

You are encouraged to participate in study tours and international competitions at various stages of the program.

You must meet the University entry requirements for this type of program.

Program entry requirements

Successful completion of an Australian Year 12 or equivalent senior secondary school studies, or RMIT Foundation Studies program, or a recognised post secondary Diploma or Certificate in a relevant discipline. Applicants with work experience in this field will also be considered.

Prerequisites

None

Selection tasks

Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Personal History online or direct applicant statement if they wish other information to be considered. You should explain why you're applying and include details of any relevant work or other experience.

1. Check program entry requirements and confirm you're eligible.

2. Check and complete the selection tasks (if applicable) by the nominated date - these tasks are listed in the program entry requirements.

3. Check if you are eligible for a Victorian Government subsidised place. If not you will need to apply for a full-fee place.

4. Check the table below for how to apply.

5. Apply using the appropriate method by the closing date.

Application method

* Some Certificate III and below programs are administered by direct application to RMIT.

Equity access

If circumstances have interrupted or disadvantaged your access to education, RMIT offers equity access schemes that allow selection officers to give applicants extra consideration, which may improve your prospects of studying at RMIT.

Tuition fees vary according to each program.

There are 2 tuition fee types:

• Victorian Government subsidised places where your fee is shared between you and the Victorian Government - if you meet the eligibility criteria
• full fees where you will be responsible for the full cost.

Fee assistance

As a TAFE student you may be eligible for the following:

• TAFE fee concession
• VET FEE-HELP loan scheme.

RMIT awards more than 2000 scholarships every year to recognise academic achievement and assist students from a variety of backgrounds. Learn more about RMIT Scholarships.

Other fees

In addition to tuition fees you will also pay the Student services and amenities fee (SSAF).

There may be other additional expenses and administrative fees associated with your studies.

Graduates may apply for exemptions of up to 1.5 years (3 semesters) from the Bachelor of Architectural Design.

A grade point average (GPA) of 4 (80-100, HD) or greater achieved in final year will guarantee a place in the Bachelor of Architectural Design, while those students with a GPA of less than 4 will be granted an interview by RMIT's School of Architecture and Design.

Eligible graduates may apply for exemptions of up to 1 year from the following degrees:

• Bachelor of Applied Science (Construction Management)
• Bachelor of Design (Interior Design)
• Bachelor of Applied Science (Project Management)
• Bachelor of Applied Science (Property and Valuation).

Learn more about pathways or if you are eligible for credit transfer and recognition of prior learning.

Architecture & Design

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