Bachelor of Architectural Design

The course is structured so that each semester builds on knowledge and skills from the previous one, applied to projects of increasing complexity. The first year focuses on design principles, concept development, representation of ideas, integrating materials, site analysis and ecology in architecture. The second year focuses on integration of architectural theory and technology to how space and the built form are shaped. The final year consolidates and extends knowledge from the first two years, applying it to complex designs on challenging sites with a regional focus.

Students must successfully complete 240 credit points in total. This comprises 14 compulsory core units worth 200 credit points and 4 specialist elective units worth 40 credit points. Students must take a minimum of 60 credit points at 300 level or above, and no more than a maximum of 100 credit points from 100 level units.

The annual tuition fee for full-time international students in 2026 is AUD $32,032.00, which equates to $4,004.00 per 10 credit point unit (0.125 EFTSL). These fees are subject to increases annually, effective at the start of each calendar year. CDU also offers a number of scholarships to international students to assist with the cost of study.

Yes, the Bachelor of Architectural Design is available on a part-time basis. Part-time study takes 6 years to complete, compared to 3 years full-time. Recommended part-time study plans are available for students commencing in either Semester 1 or Semester 2, and students can also vary their study plan due to work, personal, financial or other reasons.

Yes, there is particular emphasis placed on environmental design for architecture in tropical, desert and temperate climates. The course explores architectural design concepts and theories with a focus on developing design skills within the environmental and regional context, and the final year consolidates knowledge with a regional focus applied to complex designs on challenging sites. A specialist elective unit, ARD280 Environmental Design: Desert Project, is also available.