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Handbook 1997 : Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning

Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning : Guide to Courses


The University of Melbourne introduced Australia's first studies in architecture in the 1860s. In 1927 it established the first full-time architecture course. Since then, courses in other disciplines of the built and natural environment have followed. Today, the Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning trains architects, builders, quantity surveyors, facility planners and managers, environmentalists, landscape architects and urban planners.

The Faculty aims to produce professionals skilled in investigation, analysis, problem-solving and communication who are motivated to contribute significantly to professional and community life.

As the first part of their training, students undertake the Bachelor of Planning and Design (BPD) degree course, a three-year (minimum) pre-professional program in either architecture or building.

Most of the subjects taken at BPD level in architecture and building are compulsory but there is scope to take a wide range of subjects outside these disciplines. An honours program in fourth year is offered to students who have done particularly well in the BPD (Building). The courses are offered only on a full-time basis.

The BPD provides students with foundation studies in their chosen discipline. To gain a professional qualification, graduates of the BPD must continue their studies in an appropriate post-BPD course at either bachelor or master's level.

Applications for entry to the post-BPD professional courses are also accepted from students who have completed studies elsewhere. Architecture applicants are expected to have completed studies equivalent to the BPD at a recognised school of architecture. Building applicants should normally have completed studies equivalent to the BPD, but may also be considered on the basis of related studies. Both architecture and building applicants require appropriate work experience. For landscape architecture and urban planning, applicants may be graduates of the BPD or another appropriate degree. In cases where a student's qualifications are deficient for direct entry to a post-BPD professional course, preliminary studies of up to one full-time year may be available to compensate for the deficiency.

Entry to the master's programs is normally subject to applicants having achieved an average of 70 per cent in their last year of full-time study. Application for entry to all post-BPD courses must be made through the Faculty Office.

The academic requirements for professional qualification in each discipline are:

Architecture: Completion of the BPD (Architecture) (three years), one year of approved practical experience, and the Bachelor of Architecture (BArch) (two years).

Building or Quantity Surveying: Completion of the BPD (Building) (three years) and the Bachelor of Building (BBldg) (one year), or the BPD(Hons) (four years) and the Master of Building (MBldg) by coursework (one year full-time, two years part-time). All students must complete one year of approved practical training before entering the post-BPD course.

Environmental Planning: Completion of the BPD(Hons) (four years) or the Master of Environmental Studies (MEnvS) by coursework - last intake was in 1994 (two years full-time, four years part-time).

Landscape Architecture: Completion of the BPD(Hons) (four years) and the Master of Landscape Architecture (MLArch) by coursework (one year full-time, two years part-time).

Urban Planning: Completion of the BPD(Hons) (four years) and the Master of Urban Planning (MUP) by coursework (one year full-time, two years part-time), or the BPD (Planning) (three years) and the Bachelor of Town and Regional Planning (BTRP) (one year).

The Faculty maintains close links with five professional institutes, each of which recognises and accredits academic qualifications awarded by the Faculty. They are the Australian Institute of Building, Australian Institute of Landscape Architects, Australian Institute of Quantity Surveyors, Royal Australian Institute of Architects, and Royal Australian Planning Institute.

Research activity is maintained at a high level, covering key areas such as urban planning and design, construction and cost management, history and conservation of the built and natural environments.

Master's degrees by research can be taken in architecture, building, environmental studies, landscape architecture, and town and regional planning. Candidates are expected to complete a major research study and prepare a thesis based on the research project. The Doctor of Philosophy degree (PhD) is also available.

Architecture master's candidates may choose to present design work as a part of their research. In all cases, only applicants with an appropriate academic background are admitted. In some cases preliminary studies may be approved as a bridging course for students of other disciplines.

Further information about master's degrees by both coursework and research should be sought from the Faculty Office.

Note: The last intake for the BPD (Planning) was in 1994. The planning program offers returning and continuing students three streams of study: environmental studies, landscape architecture, and urban planning. Students of planning must choose to major in one of these streams in the second year of their course. A combined course of Bachelor of Arts/BPD (Planning) is also offered. Students of planning may obtain the two degrees in five full-time years of study. (Normally, each degree requires three years of study.) The last intake for the Bachelor of Arts/BPD (Planning) was in 1994. The combined course requirements are set out in the section following the BPD (Planning) program.


Objectives of the Faculty

The general objectives of the Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning are to:


Faculty courses


Undergraduate


Graduate


Higher degrees


Planning an undergraduate course (Architecture)

Bachelor of Planning and Design (Architecture)

Bachelor of Architecture (Pass or Honours)

Bachelor of Architecture/Bachelor of Building

Master of Architecture

Master of Planning and Design

Doctor of Architecture

The emphasis of the architecture program is on the design of buildings and the management of the building process, involving studies in design, building technology, history and theory, and architectural management. Graduates become architects who can undertake general practice or choose to specialise. The range of specialisations open to architects includes commercial, industrial and institutional developments, housing, historic building conservation and renovation, and building interiors. An architectural qualification is highly portable, with many graduates choosing to work as architects overseas. An architectural education has also proved to be a useful basis for a range of design-related careers such as industrial design, furniture design, interior design, landscape design, and urban design. It is also a useful preparation for careers in design management, in such areas as urban planning, facilities management, project management and development, conservation and heritage management, and public art. Most design-related careers or careers in design management require additional academic qualifications, and it is not unusual for BArch graduates to undertake further graduate or postgraduate studies.

Architecture and building students undertake a common first semester in the first year of their BPD and take some common core subjects in every year of their respective courses. The flexible structure of the BPD (Architecture) course allows students to gain experience of the wider professional and cultural context of architectural practice by taking subjects in landscape architecture, urban design, urban planning, and design. Students, through their choice of these options, are able to avoid up to a semester of subjects that are currently required of BPD (Architecture) graduates who want to gain entry into the Master of Landscape Architecture (MLArch) and the Master of Urban Planning (MUP).


Bachelor of Planning and Design (Architecture)

The Bachelor of Planning and Design (Architecture) is a three year, full-time course. It is the pre-professional degree leading to entry into the BArch. On completing the BPD (Architecture), students who have obtained the required standard in their BPD pass degree and who wish to pursue a career in architecture are required to undertake a period of practical work experience before enrolling in the two year BArch course the professional degree recognised by the Royal Australian Institute of Architects and the Architects Registration Board of Victoria.

Graduates of the BPD (Architecture) course who have obtained the required standard in their BPD pass degree may choose to undertake a combined professional degree in architecture and building, the BArch/BBldg. Alternatively, they may choose to pursue professional careers in building, landscape architecture, urban design or urban planning by enrolling directly in the BBldg, MLArch, MPD or MUP degree courses. These professionally recognised courses are generally of two years duration (and may require further preliminary studies). BPD (Architecture) graduates may also choose to undertake the BArch followed by the MUP or the MLArch, completing the second professional degree with as little as one year of additional academic study.


Course objectives

The Bachelor of Planning and Design (Architecture) course has as its objectives that graduates:


Course structure

First Year

Semester 1
702-101 Introduction to Design
702-120 Communications 1A
702-137 Construction Technology 1A
History elective 112.5

Semester 2
702-103 Architectural Design and Practice 1
702-121 Communications 1B
702-138 Construction Technology 1B
History elective 212.5
Total points100.0

Second Year

Semester 1
702-204 Architectural Design and Practice 2A
702-237 Construction Technology 2A
702-208 Computers in Architecture
History elective 312.5

Semester 2
702-206 Architectural Design and Practice 2B
702-238 Construction Technology 2B
702-219 Built-Environment Sciences
History elective 412.5
Total points100.0

Third Year

Semester 1
702-303 Architectural Design and Practice 3
702-337 Construction Technology 3A
702-305 Theories of Architecture
702-343 Environmental Design
or:
705-294 Plants and Planting Design

Semester 2
702-340 Design 3
702-338 Construction Technology 3B
702-348 Architectural Practice A
Elective12.5
Total points100.0

History Elective 1

702-102 The City in History
702-131 European Architecture A: Foundations of Western Design and Building

History Elective 2

702-132 European Architecture B: the Renaissance to the Enlightenment
705-217 History of Urban Planning

History Elective 3

702-231 Modern Architecture A: 19th Century
702-102 The City in History
702-131 European Architecture A: Foundations of Western Design and Building
702-217 History of Building Construction
702-233 Asian Architecture A: South and Southeast Asia
(Available in even years only)

History Elective 4

702-132 European Architecture B: the Renaissance to the Enlightenment
705-217 History of Urban Planning
705-216 History of Landscape Architecture
702-234 Asian Architecture B: China and Japan
(Available in odd years only)
702-232 Modern Architecture B: 20th Century


Bachelor of Architecture

The BArch is a two-year, full-time course of 200 points. It is available at both pass and honours levels. The course satisfies the academic requirements for registration by the Architects Registration Board of Victoria and for membership of the Royal Australian Institute of Architects. An additional requirement of registration is a minimum of two years of approved professional experience in architecture.


Course objectives

The Bachelor of Architecture course has as its objectives that graduates:


Entry into the course in 1995 and later years

Generally, to gain entry, graduates of the BPD (Architecture) or its equivalent must have completed one academic year (26 weeks) of approved practical experience undertaken after the completion of the BPD.

Applicants from other institutions may be required to present to the Selection Committee a portfolio of their design work that convincingly demonstrates the ability to complete the BArch course. Such applicants may then be required to attend an interview. Applicants from other institutions may also be required to undertake preliminary studies.

Students are considered to be in a particular year level of the course until they have completed all the compulsory and electives points requirements for that level of study.


Course structure - Bachelor of Architecture

First Year

Semester 1
702-403 Architectural Design and Practice 4
Electives12.5
Theory Elective12.5

Semester 2
702-440 Design 4
702-412 Advanced Services
702-319 Construction Law
Elective (C & C)12.5
Total points100.0

Second Year

Semester 1
702-503 Architectural Design and Practice 5
702-574 Design Investigation
Elective (C & C)12.5

Semester 2
702-540 Design 5
702-505 Architectural Practice B
Elective (C & C)12.5
Total points100.0


BArch Electives

History subjects

To graduate BArch, students are required to have completed 50 points of approved history subjects by the end of the BArch course. All or some of these subjects can be undertaken in the BPD(Architecture) course with any shortfall in the requisite points being undertaken in the BArch course.

Contextual and complementary studies

BArch students are required to use the electives available in the BArch course (totalling up to 62.5 points) to complement their architectural studies. Each student will be expected to develop an approved program of studies for these electives. When developing these elective programs, students-with the approval of the Dean-may choose subjects offered in other faculties. When developing a program of BArch elective studies, students should be guided by the subject lists published by the Faculty for this purpose.

The elective program in the BArch also permits architecture students to undertake subjects in the MUP and the MLArch. With appropriate course planning, BArch graduates will be able to complete a professionally accredited MUP or MLArch in one additional year of academic study. Electives also provide pathways into research. Appropriately prepared BArch graduates should then be able to complete the MArch research degree (either by thesis or by design) in as little as one full-time calendar year.


Bachelor of Architecture/Bachelor of Building

The professionally accredited combined architecture and building course (BArch/BBldg) is open to graduates of both the architecture and the building streams of the BPD and allows graduates to complete the two professional degrees in a minimum of seven years (i.e. six full-time academic years plus the mandatory industry experience requirement of one year). The BArch is recognised by the Royal Australian Institute of Architects. The BBldg is recognised by the Australian Institute of Building and also by the Australian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (provided that the subject 702-483 Advanced Quantity Surveying is completed).

Having the two professional degrees allows graduates to combine the architecture course's strengths in design with the building course's strengths in construction technology and management. The career opportunities for graduates with professional accreditation in both architecture and building are considerable. Graduates can operate at a much more effective level of professionalism as either architects or as builders, or as architect/builders; and they can also follow careers in the field of project management, and in package building (such as turn-key operations and design and construction).

Admission to the course is open to graduates of both the BPD (Architecture) and BPD (Building) courses who have achieved an average grade of H3 (65%) or above in the third year of the BPD. Graduates of the BPD (Building) will also need to have completed a recommended architecture design subject as one of their electives, and graduates of the BPD (Architecture) will need to have completed the subject 306-102 Accounting Concepts as their elective. A minimum of a year of logged work experience in the building industry (architecture and/or building) must be undertaken before admission to the BArch/BBldg. For entry from other institutions, applicants will need to hold a similar qualification and may be required to undertake preliminary studies.

The course is of three years duration including a program of prescribed preliminary subjects totalling 100 points. On successful completion of the preliminary year, students will be enrolled in the two-year BArch/BBldg course set out below.


Course objectives

The Bachelor of Architecture/Bachelor of Building course has as its objectives that graduates:


Course structure - Bachelor of Architecture/Bachelor of Building

First Year (Preliminary program for BPD (Architecture) graduates)

Semester 1
702-216 Cost Management 2
702-236 Management of Construction 2
702-308 Structures and Construction 3A
702-319 Construction Law

Semester 2
451-102 Introduction to Surveying (BPD)
702-310 Construction Methods and Equipment
702-361 Cost Management 3
702-316 Management of Construction 3
Total points100.0

First Year (Preliminary program for BPD (Building) graduates)

Semester 1
702-303 Architectural Design and Practice 3
702-208 Computers in Architecture
702-343 Environmental Design
Approved Architectural History Elective12.5

Semester 2
702-206 Architectural Design and Practice 2B
702-305 Theories of Architecture
702-232 Modern Architecture B: 20th Century
702-338 Construction Technology 3B
Total points100.0

Second Year: BArch/BBldg Year 1

Semester 1
702-403 Architectural Design and Practice 4
702-411 Advanced Construction1
702-413 Project Administration1

Semester 2
702-412 Advanced Services
702-440 Design 4
Approved Architectural History Elective (BPD Bldg graduates only)12.5
702-309 Structures and Construction 3B
(BPD Arch graduates only)
Elective12.5
Total points100.0

Third Year: BArch/BBldg Year 2

Semester 1
702-503 Architectural Design and Practice 5
702-418 Land Economy1
702-419 Advanced Construction Law1

Semester 2
702-505 Architectural Practice B
702-414 Project Organisation
702-415 Building Economy1
Elective (or 702-483 Advanced Quantity Surveying)12.5
Total points100.0


Master of Planning and Design (MPD)

The Master of Planning and Design (MPD) programs provide BArch, BBldg, and MBldg graduates with additional opportunities to undertake research.

The MPD is a generic degree which provides opportunities for graduates to undertake programs in urban design as well as conservation, project management, and facilities planning and management. Students will be able to undertake many of these postgraduate programs as a master's by research.


Master of Architecture

The MArch may be undertaken either by research and submission of a thesis, or by design involving preparation of a series of designs with accompanying dissertation. Contact the Faculty Office for further details and application forms.


Doctor of Architecture

The DArch may be awarded to a person who submits for examination published or unpublished works which provide evidence of research and which constitute a definite contribution to architecture.


Graduate Diploma in Facility Planning and Management/Graduate Certificate in Facility Studies

Facility planning and management is involved with strategic planning, value management, quality assurance, resource inventory, space planning and space management. Facility planners seek to best fit an organisation's facility requirements with its development plans.

The Graduate Diploma in Facility Planning and Management is a two year, part-time course, and the Graduate Certificate in Facility Studies is a one year, part-time course. For entry into either of these courses, a tertiary qualification is desirable but not essential. All applicants, however, must have industry background experience.


Planning an undergraduate course (Building/Quantity Surveying)

Bachelor of Planning and Design (Building) (Pass or Honours)

Bachelor of Building

Bachelor of Architecture/Bachelor of Building

Master of Building

Master of Planning and Design

The building program focuses on developing expertise in construction technology and management. Graduates become project and site managers for building construction projects; advisers for property investment and development; materials and product manufacturers and suppliers; quantity surveyors and cost managers. Builders can specialise in large commercial developments, housing, historic building preservation and renovation, and building interiors. Graduates can also seek careers as academics and/or researchers.

There are three major studies in the building program - building technology, construction management and cost management. Building technology covers the characteristics of materials and structures, the design of structural elements, construction detailing, the performance of building services such as air-conditioning, building methods and equipment, and land surveying. Construction management deals with business administration, industrial relations, law and contracts, and project management. Cost management includes economics, accounting, estimating, life-cycle costing, property investment analysis, and quantity surveying.

A professionally accredited qualification in building takes a minimum of five years. The Bachelor of Planning and Design (Building) is the pre-professional degree leading to entry into the BBldg. It is a three-year, full-time course. On completing the BPD (Building), students who wish to pursue a career in building are required to undertake a period of practical work experience. They may then enrol in the one-year BBldg course-the professional degree recognised by the Australian Institute of Building and the Australian Institute of Quantity Surveyors.

Those BPD (Building) students who are offered entry into the BPD(Hons) course can also complete the mandatory requirement for work experience and a professionally accredited MBldg within five years.

Alternatively, graduates of the BPD (Building) course who have obtained the required standard in their BPD pass degree may choose to undertake a combined professional degree in architecture and building, the BArch/BBldg.


Bachelor of Planning and Design (Building)


Course objectives

The Bachelor of Planning and Design (Building) course has as its objectives that graduates:


Course structure

First Year

Semester 1
702-101 Introduction to Design
702-120 Communications 1A
702-137 Construction Technology 1A
702-217 History of Building Construction

Semester 2
451-102 Introduction to Surveying (BPD)
702-117 Management of Construction 1
702-138 Construction Technology 1B
702-115 Property 1
Total points100.0

Second Year

Semester 1
327-201 Organisational Behaviour
702-237 Construction Technology 2A
702-216 Cost Management 2
702-236 Management of Construction 2

Semester 2
306-102 Accounting Concepts
702-238 Construction Technology 2B
702-219 Built-Environment Sciences
Elective12.5
Total points100.0

Third Year

Semester 1
702-308 Structures and Construction 3A
702-337 Construction Technology 3A
702-319 Construction Law
Elective12.5

Semester 2
702-309 Structures and Construction 3B
702-310 Construction Methods and Equipment
702-361 Cost Management 3
702-316 Management of Construction 3
Total points100.0


Bachelor of Planning and Design (Building) (Honours)

Entry is at the beginning of Semester 2 of the third level of BPD (Bldg). Normally an average of 75% (H2A) at second level and Semester 1 level 3, is required for selection into the BPD (Building) (Hons) program.


Third Year

Selection into BPD (Honours)

Semester 1
Listed subjects for Semester 1 of 3rd year of BPD (Bldg)50.0

Semester 2
Listed subjects for Semester 2 of 3rd year of BPD (Bldg)50.0
702-451 Introductory Research Project
Total points112.5


Fourth Year (BPD (Honours))

Honours course structure

Semester 1
Four subjects from this list:
702-411 Advanced Construction
702-413 Project Administration
702-419 Advanced Construction Law
702-418 Land Economy
702-451 Introductory Research Project

Semester 2
702-453 Case Studies in Building B
Total points87.5


Bachelor of Building

The BBldg is normally a one year, full-time course of 100 points and is available at pass level only. It is recognised by the Australian Institute of Building and by the Australian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (provided that 702-483 Advanced Quantity Surveying is undertaken as the elective). All prospective students (including BPD graduates) must apply through the Faculty Office.

Entry from the BPD requires completion of the BPD (Building) and one year of approved practical experience in the building industry. Entry from other faculties and institutions normally requires that applicants hold a three-year degree in an appropriate discipline (such as building, quantity surveying, architecture, engineering) and have practical experience in the building industry. Applicants may be required to undertake preliminary studies to compensate for deficiencies in their previous studies.


Course objectives

The Bachelor of Building course has as its objectives that graduates:


Course structure

Subject List

Semester 1
702-411 Advanced Construction
702-413 Project Administration
702-418 Land Economy
702-419 Advanced Construction Law

Semester 2
702-412 Advanced Services
702-414 Project Organisation
702-415 Building Economy
Elective212.5
Total points100.0


Graduate Diploma in Planning and Design (Building)

The Graduate Diploma in Planning and Design (Building) provides a preparatory program of studies for entry to BBldg or MBldg. It is open to graduates of bachelor degrees in building, quantity surveying, architecture, civil or structural engineering, or the equivalent. Applicants who do not have such formal qualifications, but do have considerable relevant professional experience, may also apply.

The graduate diploma is a one year, full-time course or a two year part-time course of 100 points. Upon successful completion of the course with at least a grade average of 70%, applicants may apply for entry into the Master of Building.

Please note: The graduate diploma on its own does not satisfy the professional requirements of the Australian Institute of Building or the Australia Institute of Quantity Surveyors.


Master of Building

The MBldg can be completed either by coursework or by thesis. Applicants normally must be either graduates with a BBldg degree of four years standing with a grade average of 70% (H2B) or hold a BPD(Hons) degree in building, or its equivalent. Other applicants with relevant professional experience may also apply, but may be required to do preliminary studies before being accepted for entry.

Candidates who enrol in the MBldg will need to have undertaken a minimum of a year of practical experience in the building industry to complete the requirements for membership of the Australian Institute of Building.

Candidates who have completed the BPD (Building) (Hons) degree, as noted above, may enrol in the MBldg by coursework to meet the academic requirements for membership of the Australian Institute of Building or the Australian Institute of Quantity Surveyors.


Planning an undergraduate course (Planning)

Within the planning program, three areas of specialisation are offered: environmental studies, landscape architecture, and urban planning. All students undertake the same core subjects in the first year of the course. Students choose to specialise in one of the three disciplines in the second year. A combined degree of Bachelor of Arts/BPD (Planning) is also available.

Please note that a series of changes in this program are currently being implemented. In summary these changes are as follows:

Students are advised to consult the Faculty of Architecture Building and Planning prior to enrolment.


Course objectives

The Bachelor of Planning and Design (Planning) course has as its objectives that graduates:


Specialisation in Environmental Studies

Bachelor of Planning and Design (Pass or Honours) - last intake 1994

Graduate Diploma in Planning and Design (Environmental Studies)

Master of Environmental Studies

The emphasis in Environmental Studies is on environmental planning and management. The courses offered aim to give graduates the necessary understanding and skills for working in these areas.

Students learn how society uses the natural world to satisfy its needs, how the use of it is constrained by its limitations, and how human manipulation of the natural environment has caused environmental stresses which are often cumulative and compounding in their effects.

They discover that although conservation and development are both ways of satisfying human needs, they are not necessarily in conflict and can be complementary. The courses develop skills in applying the multidisciplinary approaches necessary to tackle these complex problems.

In the Environmental Studies stream of the three year BPD, students are encouraged to apply their knowledge to solve problems in new areas. Much time is devoted to project work and emphasis is placed on helping students to take initiative.

Graduates are qualified to work in environmental planning and management with private firms or government ministries and statutory authorities.

Students who obtain the required standard in their pass BPD degree are permitted to enrol for an additional honours year of the BPD. Honours students doing environmental studies focus on economic, social, environmental and resource evaluation; policy development; and decision-making in areas of conflict. The work includes individual research projects in which students tackle specific problems and report on their findings.

BPD(Hons) graduates have much to offer private and government sectors in environmental planning and management and can expect to move quickly into creative and demanding jobs in these areas.

Students taking the BPD pass degree in environmental studies will normally complete the program listed below. Note that all planning students study common subjects in first year. Choice of specialisation in one of the three planning disciplines (environmental studies, landscape architecture or urban planning) occurs in second year.


Bachelor of Planning and Design (Planning) in Environmental Studies

Third Year

Environmental Planning
705-371 Local Development Planning
705-235 Urban and Landscape Design 2/3 A
Additional compulsory subjects:
705-382 Urban Sociology and Politics
705-399 Environmental Law
Natural Environment
705-392 Environmental Resources and Pollution
Plus one of the following:
121-340 Principles of Ecological Biogeography
121-349 Principles of Environmental Hydrology
211-444 Parks and Recreation
211-441 Agroforestry
Electives as required25.0
Total points100.0


Bachelor of Planning and Design (Planning) (Honours) in Environmental Studies

Entry requires completion of the BPD (Planning) program, normally with a grade average of at least 65%, especially at the third year level. Appropriate work experience may also be taken into account.

Candidates wishing to enter the honours year with a view to going on to complete a Master of Environmental Studies should have completed a major in Environmental Planning, a pass in 705-199 Computing and Statistics for Planning and Design (12.5 points) and a major in either Natural Environment or another BPD subject combination approved by the Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning.

The overall result in BPD Honours courses is calculated on the average mark achieved during the student's honours year. A student must achieve a grade average of 70 (H2B) or above to graduate honours.

Honours Year

705-489 Urbanisation and Urban Development
705-414 Research Project
Electives (Geography subjects recommended)62.5
Total points100.0


Master of Environmental Studies and Graduate Diploma in Planning and Design (Environmental Studies)

The MEnvS offers higher-level study in environmental planning and management to BPD graduates, as well as those from other disciplines such as arts, science, commerce, law, agricultural science and engineering.

The DipPD(EnvS) provides a program of advanced studies by coursework in environmental analysis and management for graduates from the above range of disciplines.

The MEnvS may be taken by coursework or by research (by submission of a major thesis). The coursework degree may be completed over two years full-time or four years part-time, with at least 200 points of study approved by the Faculty.

A four-year honours degree or equivalent is normally required for direct entry into the MEnvS program. Students with a pass degree should first complete the DipPD(EnvS)-see below-which also replaces the former preliminary studies requirement. To be eligible to proceed to the second year of the MEnvS it is necessary to achieve a minimum honours level (70% average) in the DipPD. Students who have completed the BPD(Hons) in Environmental Studies may also complete the MEnvS program in one year.

The DipPD(EnvS) consists of 100 points of coursework over one year full-time, or two years part-time. Applicants with a three year or four year pass degree in an appropriate field may be admitted to this course. The graduate diploma may also be entered as a stepping stone to a master's course. Students require a minimum honours-level pass in the DipPD(EnvS) to be eligible to continue in the final year of the MEnvS program.

The DipPD(EnvS) course and the BPD(Hons) year are both similar to the first year of the MEnvS course, except that for BPD(Hons) students an honours research project replaces the electives. Second-year MEnvS students take the subject Environmental Evaluation and Management, together with three further elective studies, and undertake a group research project (incorporating a substantial individual component) involving a multi-disciplinary approach to a program in environmental planning or management.

Further information about the master's degree by coursework or research, or the graduate diploma may be obtained from the Student Services Office.


Specialisation in Landscape Architecture

Bachelor of Planning and Design (Planning) (Pass or Honours) - last intake 1994

Graduate Diploma in Planning and Design (Landscape Architecture)

Master of Landscape Architecture

Master of Planning and Design

Landscape Architecture involves the planning, design and management of the natural and built environment.

Landscape architects work with open spaces and manufactured and natural materials including soils, landforms and plants. They try to understand how urban, rural and natural landscapes are evolving, and the interaction between people and nature. They learn how people use different spaces, and plan and design public areas, malls, riversides, boulevards and parklands.

Students learn how to simulate changes using computers to predict more accurately their potential impact. Exposure is also given to complementary skills in urban planning and environmental analysis and planning.

At the conclusion of the BPD degree course, graduates are qualified to work in areas of landscape and environmental planning, design, and management, either in private practice or in local or State government instrumentalities.

Students who obtain the required standard in their pass BPD degree are permitted to enrol in the honours year, where studies in urban and regional planning and design, ecology, environmental assessment, information and monitoring, and a research project are undertaken.

Students taking the BPD pass degree in landscape architecture will normally complete the program listed below. Note that all planning students study common subjects in first year. Choice of specialisation in one of the three planning disciplines (environmental studies, landscape architecture, urban planning) occurs in second year.


Bachelor of Planning and Design (Planning) in Landscape Architecture

Third year

Environmental Planning:
705-371 Local Development Planning
705-235 Urban and Landscape Design 2/3 A
Natural Environment:
705-392 Environmental Resources and Pollution
Additional compulsory subjects:
705-395 Landscape Technology
705-399 Environmental Law
705-216 History of Landscape Architecture
705-236 Urban and Landscape Design 2/3 B
Elective12.5
Total points100.0


Bachelor of Planning and Design (Planning) (Honours) in Landscape Architecture

Entry to the BPD(Hons) in Landscape Architecture requires completion of the BPD (Planning) program, normally with a grade average of at least 65%, especially at the third year level. Appropriate work experience may also be taken into account.

Candidates who wish to enter the honours year with the aim of later completing a Master of Landscape Architecture should have successfully completed a major in Natural Environment and passes in 705-199 Computing and Statistics for Planning and Design (12.5 points), 705-294 Plants and Planting Design (12.5 points) and 705-395 Landscape Technology (12.5 points), plus a major in either Environmental Planning or another BPD subject combination approved by the Faculty.

The overall result in BPD Honours courses is calculated on the average mark achieved during the student's honours year. A student must achieve a grade average of 70 (H2B) or above to graduate honours.

Honours

Semester 1
705-435 Urban and Landscape Design 4A
702-421 Urban Design Theory
705-411 Geographic Information Systems For Planning and Management A
705-414 Research Project

Semester 2
705-436 Urban and Landscape Design 4B
705-415 Perceptions of the Australian Landscape
705-473 CAD in Landscape Architecture
Total points100.0


Graduate Diploma in Planning and Design (Landscape Architecture)

The DipPD(LArch) is a course in landscape planning and design. It is avail-able to students from a range of disciplinary backgrounds who have reached a satisfactory academic standard.

The coursework degree may be completed in one year full-time or two years part-time with compulsory core subjects and a range of electives. A limited number of places is available in any year. (The graduate diploma is not accredited by the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects.)


Master of Landscape Architecture

The MLArch degree can be completed either by coursework or by research with submission of a major thesis. The coursework degree is a two-year full-time or four-year part-time program of at least 200 points of study approved by the Faculty.

The degree by coursework is recognised by the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects for corporate membership of the Institute following completion of a prescribed period of practical experience.

Students who complete BPD(Hons) may complete the MLArch degree by coursework in one year. Entry to the MLArch is also open to candidates with a BLArch from another institution or to those who complete a first degree in another discipline and do a preliminary studies year (full or part time).

Graduates from other disciplines typically have backgrounds in agricultural science, geography, architecture, arts, engineering and similar areas, but others may apply. There is specialisation in four fields of landscape architecture:

Urban design and urban landscape design: planning and designing public spaces and understanding the economic, social, political and environmental contexts; assessing project feasibility and land economics; and planning and designing complex projects.

Regional landscape policy and design: planning and designing regional areas and landscapes, understanding their ecology and environment, evaluating regional landscapes, heritage assessment and planning, regional project planning and design, and related computing techniques.

Environmental perception and simulation: landscape perception; computer simulation techniques as planning tools including computer aided design; and related computer/video skills.

Research: research methods (such as surveys); research projects leading to publication; major research projects, and community interaction.


Specialisation in Urban Planning

Bachelor of Planning and Design (Planning) (Pass or Honours) - last intake 1994

Bachelor of Town and Regional Planning

Graduate Diploma in Planning and Design (Urban Planning)

Master of Urban Planning (by coursework)

Master of Town and Regional Planning (by thesis) - last intake 1994

Master of Planning and Design

Town planners help shape cities and towns by trying to ensure that transport facilities, shops and industry are conveniently placed, that houses are built away from factories, that historic buildings are preserved, that recreation areas are available, that land prices are kept down, and so on.

To do this, they use a system of land-use strategies and zoning, along with negotiating skills, to mediate and help resolve conflicts between residents, developers, industrialists, farmers, conservationists and government departments.

Students are trained in data collection, information analysis, plan generation, plan testing and plan selection. They study people, societies, the economy, legal systems, environmental problems and organisational behaviour. They also learn report writing, communication and research methods. The main part of their studies is in urban systems, dealing with how cities work, the processes and techniques of intervention, and planning, design and management.

It is possible to gain worthwhile employment in local councils, government departments, planning consultancies or development companies after completing the three year BPD. However, most town planning students study for at least four years in order to qualify for membership of the Royal Australian Planning Institute.

Upon completion of the BPD, students who have obtained the required standard may enter either the BTRP or the BPD(Hons) majoring in urban planning. The honours course concentrates more on research skills to prepare stronger students for an MUP degree, but apart from this the two courses are identical.

Students taking the BPD pass degree in urban planning will normally complete the program listed below. Note that all BPD (Planning) students study common subjects in first year. Choice of specialisation in one of the three planning disciplines (environmental studies, landscape architecture, urban planning) occurs in second year.


Bachelor of Planning and Design (Planning) in Urban Planning

Third Year

Environmental Planning
705-371 Local Development Planning
705-235 Urban and Landscape Design 2/3 A
Natural Environment
705-392 Environmental Resources and Pollution
Additional compulsory subjects:
705-382 Urban Sociology and Politics
705-236 Urban and Landscape Design 2/3 B
Electives37.5
Recommended electives:
705-399 Environmental Law
702-418 Land Economy
Total points100.0


Bachelor of Town and Regional Planning

The BTRP is a one year, full-time course of 100 points. The course is available at pass level only.

Entry from the BPD normally requires graduates to have completed a major in Environmental Planning, a major in Urban Systems and to have passes in an approved Economics subject (12.5 points), 705-101 Communication for Planners (12.5 points), 705-399 Environmental Law (12.5 points), and an approved computing subject.

Applicants who do not meet these requirements may become eligible by undertaking preliminary studies. In special circumstances, the Faculty may permit a student to undertake one or more of the above subjects concurrently with the BTRP.

Entry from other faculties and institutions normally requires applicants to hold a three-year degree with majors in planning or related areas (such as urban studies, transport engineering, urban economics, urban geography).

Applicants may first be required to undertake preliminary studies to compensate for any deficiencies in their previous study.


Course objectives

The Bachelor of Town and Regional Planning course has as its objectives that graduates:


Course structure BTRP

BTRP Year

705-441 Origins of Modern Urban Planning
705-489 Urbanisation and Urban Development
705-443 Planning in Post-Industrial Societies
705-445 Planning Law and Statutory Planning
705-414 Research Project
Electives25.0
Total points100.0


Bachelor of Planning and Design (Planning) (Honours) in Urban Planning

Entry normally requires completion of the BPD (Planning) with a grade average of at least 65%, especially at the third year level. Appropriate work experience may also be taken into account.

Candidates who wish to enter the honours year with the aim of later completing a Master of Urban Planning should have completed the following: a major in Urban Systems, passes in an approved Economics subject (12.5 points) or 705-102 Understanding Cities, Towns and Regions (12.5 points), 705-101 Communication for Planners (12.5 points), 705-199 Computing and Statistics for Planning and Design (12.5 points) and 705-399 Environmental Law (12.5 points), plus a major in either Environmental Planning or another BPD subject combination approved by the Faculty of Architecture Building and Planning.

The overall result in BPD Honours courses is calculated on the average mark achieved during the student's honours year. A student must achieve a grade average of 70 (H2B) or above to graduate honours.

Honours Year

Semester 1
705-489 Urbanisation and Urban Development
705-431 Transport and Land Use Planning
705-414 Research Project
Elective12.5

Semester 2
705-445 Planning Law and Statutory Planning
705-441 Origins of Modern Urban Planning
Elective12.5
Total points100.0


Graduate Diploma in Planning and Design (Urban Planning)

The DipPD(UP) is a course in urban studies and planning. It is available to students from a range of disciplinary backgrounds who have reached a satisfactory academic standard.

The coursework degree may be completed in one year full-time or two years part-time with compulsory core subjects and a range of electives. A limited number of places is available in any year.


Master of Urban Planning

The MUP degree is a two-year, full-time or four-year, part-time coursework master's degree of at least 200 points of study approved by the Faculty. It is recognised by the Royal Australian Planning Institute for membership (after a period of practical experience).

To enter the MUP degree course, candidates must complete the BPD(Hons) in Urban Planning (which allows exemptions from the first year of the MUP) or complete a four year BTRP or similar degree from the University of Melbourne or another institution (which may allow exemption from some MUP subjects) or complete a first degree in another discipline and do a preliminary studies year, full or part-time (which may allow exemption from some subjects).

Graduates from other disciplines typically have backgrounds in planning or related areas (such as urban studies, transport engineering, urban economics, urban geography), but those with other backgrounds may apply.

There is specialisation in two fields of urban planning: urban policy and planning; and physical planning and urban design. The first year consists of a strong emphasis on urbanisation and planning theory.

In the second year there is a strong emphasis on the study of contemporary planning issues, research methods and research to investigate the role of planning in contemporary society.


Master of Planning and Design

The Master of Planning and Design program provides graduates with the opportunity to pursue further studies by research in the urban planning area.


Bachelor of Arts/BPD (Planning) - last intake 1994

The combined course enables students to enrol in one of the Planning streams of the BPD (environmental studies, landscape architecture, urban planning) and also undertake a Bachelor of Arts majoring in related subjects. The BA/BPD in one of these streams requires five years of equivalent full-time study to complete. It is designed to offer students flexibility in choosing subjects from both faculties.

Students need to complete a minimum of 500 points to meet the requirements for the combined course. Within these 500 points, students must complete:

Note: Candidates may not use any one subject to satisfy requirements under both the above prerequisites.


Diploma of Modern Languages

The Faculty of Arts offers a Diploma in Modern Languages to students undertaking courses in faculties other than Arts. For further details Diploma in Modern Languages.


Credit for previous studies

Combined course students may, with the approval of the respective faculties, be granted credit towards either component of the combined course for subjects previously passed.

The total credit for these subjects will not exceed 125 points towards the Planning component or 83 points towards the Arts component. The same subject cannot be counted as credit towards both components.


Undergraduate entry

The following VCE subjects are prerequisites:

Architecture: English, Mathematical Methods and one from the acceptable group of subjects set by the University;

Building: English, Physics, Mathematical Methods and one from the accept-able group of subjects set by the University;

Planning and Design: English, and three from the acceptable group of subjects set by the University.

Students who do not complete these subjects satisfactorily during their VCE will not be eligible for entry to the Faculty's courses.

For environmental studies, landscape architecture and urban planning a background in any of economics, geography, history, politics or law is a valuable asset. In all of the professional streams a capacity for creative problem-solving, an imaginative understanding of people's needs and aspirations, and an ability to communicate and organise are all highly desirable.


Doctor of Philosophy

The PhD degree is administered and awarded by the University (not the Faculty). It may be taken in any discipline in which the Faculty offers an undergraduate degree. For further details contact the Faculty or the University's School of Graduate Studies.


Careers for Architecture, Building and Planning graduates

A typical role for an architect is to head the team which designs buildings (which may consist of structural, mechanical and electrical engineers, quantity surveyors, land surveyors, property consultants and interior designers).

An architect in a small firm, however, may design buildings, document them (which takes an extensive knowledge of structures, materials and law), administer contracts, run an office and keep the business financially viable.

Many architects combine careers (architect/developer, architect/builder, architect/lawyer, architect/planner). Some enter service industries, specialising, for instance, in furniture design and manufacture or programming for computer-aided design.

Graduates in building, depending on their majors, find employment in construction or project management or in the cost management of building projects (quantity surveying). They may begin on site (often as a coordinator or construction programmer) or in a contractor's office (as a contract administrator, estimator, or cost or project planner).

As construction managers they consult with designers on how a building will be erected, plan the job and the logistics, and manage labour, materials and equipment.

As quantity surveyors they take responsibility for the financial feasibility of potential projects and, when under construction, for cost monitoring and cost control.

Building graduates also work as directors of real estate firms in sales, leasing, property management and valuation; as computer systems designers; as consultants in historic buildings; as commercial arbitrators; as commercial property and volume home building contractors; in specialist subcontracting, maintenance and renovation; and as teachers, researchers and academics.

Planning graduates work in government agencies such as the Department of Conservation and Environment and the Ministry for Planning and Development, or for local government instrumentalities. They may also work in private practices.

Environmental planners are involved in land-use planning and management. They assess, plan and manage our resource use, such as water and energy, and develop local conservation strategies. They work as consultants, preparing environmental impact statements and assessing the economic, social and ecological effects of proposed developments. Some work as economists and environmental lawyers.

Landscape architects work with open space and natural materials such as soils, landforms and plants. They seek to understand how urban, rural and natural landscapes are evolving and the interaction between people and nature. They plan and design public areas such as malls, riversides, boulevards and parklands. They redesign and revegetate derelict parts of cities and towns, and they conserve and protect heritage gardens and historic buildings.

Urban planners help shape cities and towns and solve urban problems. They work to ensure that transport facilities are well located, shops and jobs are conveniently placed, houses are built away from factories, which developments should proceed, and which buildings or spaces should be preserved.

With a three year BPD they may work in government or private industry, but most elect to study for at least four years. This qualifies them to work as accredited town planners for local councils, government departments, planning consultancies or development companies.


Special dates

Closing dates for applications are:

BPD degree: 27 September 1996 through VTAC.

BArch, BBldg degrees, DipPD, DipFPM, CertFPM: 31 October 1996 through Faculty Office.

All master's degrees by coursework: 31 October 1996, through Faculty Office.

For more informationStudent Services Office, Faculty of Architecture Building and Planning, The University of Melbourne, Parkville 3052 Victoria. Telephone: +61 3 9344 6430/6450.


1. Note: These subjects may be taken in either the 2nd or 3rd year of the course, depending on timetabling.

2. The academic requirements for membership of the Australian Institute of Quantity Surveyors are satisfied by completing 702-483 as the elective.


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Handbook 1997 : Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning
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