Dive deeper into architectural studies
The Graduate Diploma in Designed Environments (GDipDE) is a 120-point qualification. It lets you study a new area of designed environments, add depth to your previous study, prepare for a Master’s, or learn the latest in the industry.
It takes two trimesters of full-time study, or usually four trimesters studied part time. You’ll study undergraduate courses from 200 to 400 level, and tailor the courses based on your previous study and to your goals.
The GDipDE is most commonly a pathway for graduates to transition their architectural studies or building science specialisation to a new area at postgraduate level. It can act as a stepping stone to Master's study.
Who can study for this qualification
Graduate qualifications allow you to change subject focus to a new area. This adds value to your undergraduate degree, or can be the first step to a new career or postgraduate study in that new subject area.
The GDipDE is similar to the Graduate Certificate, but is longer, includes more courses, and can lead to a Master’s. It suits you if you:
- want to add a new area of designed environments to your previous study to deepen or broaden your knowledge—for example, if you studied the BAS majoring in Interior Architecture you could choose to study some courses in Landscape Architecture
- already work in the industry and want to do a few courses to learn the latest information and want to study more than the Graduate Certificate covers.
The GDipDE is open to students with a Bachelor's degree in Architectural Studies (BAS), Building Science (BBSc), Design Innovation (BDI), or an equivalent qualification.
You may also be able to study the GDipDE if you have equivalent practical, professional, or scholarly experience—this is decided by the head of school.
Qualify for a Master’s in a new subject
The GDipDE is the main study path to a Master’s if you majored in one subject in your undergraduate study and now want to change your focus for a Master’s.
The GDipDE can help you change subjects to continue on to a:
- Master of Interior Architecture
- Master of Landscape Architecture
- Master of Architecture (Professional)
- Master of Architectural Science.
For example, if you majored in Interior Architecture in the BAS and now want to study for a Master of Architecture (Professional), the GDipDE gives you the chance to study Architecture courses to qualify you to apply for entry into the relevant Master’s.
What you'll learn
For your GCertDE you’ll choose one of the following areas to study.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
How you'll study
You'll study a combination of courses from 200 to 400-level in your chosen subject, totalling 120 points. Studying full time, you'll complete the GDipDE in two trimesters.
Qualification support and advice
We can help you match your interests and career goals with the right course of study.
If you’re a new student, talk to a Future Student Adviser through our enquiry form.
If you’re already studying with us, talk to Tītoko—Student Success.
For the research portion of your study, you’ll need a supervisor to help guide your research. Your programme coordinator will work with you to find the right person.
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for domestic students
- Requirements for students who completed secondary school in:
If you live in New Zealand and are a citizen or permanent resident of New Zealand or Australia, you're considered a domestic student.
Some citizens of the Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau may automatically hold New Zealand citizenship.
Diplomatic residents living in New Zealand are also regarded as domestic students.
To be accepted into this qualification, you need:
1. (a) Before enrolment, a candidate for the GDipDE shall have:
(i) completed a BAS, BBSc, BConst, or BDI degree or an equivalent qualification; and
(ii) been accepted by the head of school as capable of proceeding with the proposed course of study.
(b) Requirement (a)(i) may be waived by the head of school for a candidate who has practical, professional, or scholarly experience that provides equivalent preparation.
Entry requirements
Your acceptance into this programme is based on your previous qualifications and experience.
Qualification requirements
Excerpt from the regulations for the GradDipDE
2. (a) The personal course of study for the GDipDE shall consist of a coherent programme of study approved by the associate dean on the recommendation of the head of school. Except as provided in (b), it shall include at least 120 points from courses listed on the BAS, BBSc, BConst, MArch(Prof), MArchSc, MConsLaw, MConst, MIA, MLA, or MURPlan schedules, of which at least 75 points shall be in courses numbered 300 or above.
(b) At the discretion of the associate dean, up to 30 points in the GDipDE may be replaced with approved courses from other programmes offered at this university.
3. (a) A candidate for the GDipDE shall be enrolled for at least two trimesters and shall complete the requirements of the diploma within four years of first enrolling in it.
(b) The associate dean may extend the maximum period in special cases.
Major subjects
Majors are the subjects you focus your degree on.
Major subjects and requirements
Explore your major options below.
GDipDE subjects
Architecture
Architecture History and Theory
Interior Architecture
Landscape Architecture
No matching majors found.
Future careers
Graduates have the practical design skills, creativity, knowledge, and research skills to excel in a range of design roles.
Many design skills are transferable across different industries and roles.
More career information
Find out more about careers.
The government careers website, Tahatū, offers more information about jobs, salaries, and current opportunities.
Scholarships
You may be able to get a scholarship to help fund your studies.
We have postgraduate and doctoral scholarships available, as well as specialised scholarships for different groups and subject areas. If nothing fits right now, something may suit you later.
We encourage you to apply. It's a straightforward process, and it could make a real difference.
Scholarships for Designed Environments
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This scholarship is for students undertaking or intending to undertake an Honours or Masters degree at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington in areas related to Peace Building or Peace Studies, Trust Building, Conflict Resolution, addressing Historical Injustice, Restorative Justice, Social Cohesion, Community building and promoting cross-cultural understanding, Change Making or Ethical Leadership.
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Applicants must be female, New Zealand or Canadian citizens studying full time at 300 level BSc (Hons) and Master's by Coursework in any area of Science, including Architecture and Design at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
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This scholarship is to assist students in the last year of their first Bachelors degree at Victoria University of Wellington. The scholarship fund will be awarded equally between male and female students.
Scholarships for international students
We're currently offering a NZ$10,000 VUW Postgraduate International Scholarship to all eligible international students enrolling in a Master’s degree or Postgraduate Diploma programme.
Your scholarship will be processed automatically when your programme application is accepted, and the amount will be deducted from your tuition fees.
Other scholarships
We have postgraduate and doctoral scholarships available, as well as specialised scholarships for different groups and subject areas. If nothing fits right now, something may suit you later.
We encourage you to apply. It's a straightforward process, and it could make a real difference.
Scholarships for Designed Environments
-
Applicants must be female, New Zealand or Canadian citizens studying full time at 300 level BSc (Hons) and Master's by Coursework in any area of Science, including Architecture and Design at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
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This scholarship is to assist students in the last year of their first Bachelors degree at Victoria University of Wellington. The scholarship fund will be awarded equally between male and female students.
Join our postgraduate community
The Postgraduate Students’ Association provides a voice for you on campus and information on studying at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
Postgraduate Students’ Association
MAI ki Pōneke
MAI ki Pōneke are part of an international network of Māori and Indigenous postgraduate students. They provide advice, support, and information to Indigenous postgraduate students of all levels, as well as those thinking about enrolling.
Further research or study
The GDipDE can be a stepping stone towards a Master’s degree.
If you choose to continue to postgraduate study with us after finishing your degree, you’ll join a talented team of internationally recognised researchers doing innovative work.
If you want to do independent research, you could apply to be a candidate for a PhD.
Get help to manage your finances
We can help you:
- budget your money
- manage your student loan or allowance
- work out your accommodation payment schedule.
If you’re facing financial difficulties, we can help you apply for the Hardship Fund.
You may be eligible for government or community support, too.
Apply for a New Zealand study visa
You’ll need to apply for a study visa if you plan to study with us as an international student.
You should apply for your visa after you’ve received your Offer of Place, and before you come to New Zealand.