Explore architecture in different contexts
Discover how and why we design buildings and spaces, and understand them in their social and political contexts.
Study Architecture History and Theory to investigate areas that interest you. Explore skyscrapers that transformed the skyline of 1900s New York and are shaping the built environment of societies like Australia or Aotearoa New Zealand.
If you want to learn about the origins of architecture and the influence it has had on society now and in the past, Architecture History and Theory will suit you.
Choose your study path
You can do Architecture History and Theory as your major subject in a three-year Bachelor of Architectural Studies (BAS).
If you’re studying for a double degree or conjoint degree, Architectural Studies goes well with Arts, Commerce, or Law. The BAS is highly structured, so you will have to do some careful planning to do a conjoint or double degree.
Pathway to becoming an architect
The Bachelor of Architectural Studies (BAS) is the first step to becoming a registered architect. After completing the BAS, you’ll then need to continue your study and complete the Master of Architecture (Professional).
Once you have worked for about three years, you’ll be able to register professionally as an architect. Professional registration is recognised in New Zealand and internationally. It opens up opportunities to work overseas as an architect or start your own practice.
Degree 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.
If you’re already studying with us, talk to Tītoko—Student Success.
Study options
Find out how you can study Architecture History and Theory at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
Future careers
Study in Architecture History and Theory can lead to work in:
- building conservation
- building restoration
- stage and movie set design
- curation
- architectural journalism.
With further study, you might also make a career as a historian, or in teaching or research.
More career information
Find out more about careers in architecture.
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 first-year and school-leaver 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 Architecture
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Studio Pacific Architecture wish to support a student undertaking their first year of study at Wellington Faculty of Architecture and Design.
Scholarships for international students
We are currently offering a NZ$15,000 VUW Undergraduate International Scholarship to all eligible international students enrolling in a Bachelor’s degree.
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 also offer 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 Architecture
There could be a scholarship for your qualification, subject area, background, or situation.
Postgraduate study
If you get good results in your undergraduate study, you could continue on to postgraduate study. You could study for an accredited qualification, or for a Master’s or PhD if you want to do independent research.
The BAS is the first step to becoming a registered architect. You’ll also need to complete the accredited Master of Architecture (Professional).
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.
Wellington Global Exchange
If you're a current student at Victoria University of Wellington, you can complete part of your degree overseas. Choose from our 140 partner universities worldwide.
Study Abroad and Exchange Programme
If you're an overseas student, you can spend a trimester or a year at Victoria University of Wellington. You'll earn credits at your home university while you study here.