The Programme Outcomes (PO) - upon graduation of Master of Architecture:

1. Ability to understand and integrate knowledge, concept and theory on philosophy, technology, and environment with sensitivity towards context, place making, social, cultural aspects and human settlement issues.
2. Ability to be a team player in preparing project briefs for clients, users and society based on feasibility studies, client’s requirements, site and context, as well as budget.
3. Ability to conduct research and manage the acquired information to generate, test, analyse and appraise design options according to a systematic methodology in producing coherent, well resolved and innovative design.
4. Ability to assimilate knowledge on appropriate building technology based on climatic, visual, thermal, acoustics and energy efficient design considerations and keeping abreast with current issues and state-of-the-art technologies.
5. Ability to apply structural design and constructional strategies for a complex building or a group of buildings.
6. Ability to employ communication methods and media in visual, technical, graphic, verbal and written to present analysis and critical appraisal of a complex design proposal to a range of professional and lay audiences.
7. Ability to execute entrepreneurship principles in relation to professional practice on managing projects in accordance with the Malaysian Professional Architects’ Code of Ethics.
8. Ability to apply the knowledge on regulatory and legislative requirements relevant to the building industry and construction from planning, implementation to completion stage.
9. Ability to understand the principals on leadership role in developing, organizing, administering and managing a given project according to the framework of architectural practice and as a key player in local and global environment.

Candidates interested to pursue the Master of Architecture degree must fulfill the requirements listed below:

1. Satisfy the general requirements of USM’s Graduate School
2. Candidate should hold a good first degree in Bachelor of Science HBP (Architecture), USM or Bachelor of Architecture (equivalent to LAM Part I) from other universities of higher institutions accredited by the Board of Architects Malaysia (LAM)
3. Hold a CGPA minimum of 2.75 for the Bachelor of Science HBP (Architecture) or from other universities or institutions with equivalent of LAM Part I with at least 6 months of working experience in relevant fields after graduation (a requirement from LAM)
4. If candidates CGPA is in the range of 2.5 – 2.74, one (1) year minimum of working experience after graduation is required in relevant fields (a requirement from LAM)
5. If candidates CGPA is in the range of 2.0 – 2.49, five years minimum of working experience after graduation is required in relevant fields (a requirement from LAM)
6. Successful performance in the drawing test and interview process.

Each course in the program is offered once a year as follows 

A. Compulsory Courses (52 units)     

RAS 505 - Architecture Studio 5
This studio enforces various design process skills from architecture theory and philosophy with medium to high-rise building complexity. Solving array of issues from urban context, aesthetics, function, green technologies and energy efficiency in construction, materials, structure and building services as well basement design with carparks and vertical circulation.

RAS 506 - Architecture Studio 6
This studio emphasize on human settlement and residential building. A minor project as an exercise followed by a major project to design housing development with social, economic, cultural, sustainable issues, sense of place and neighbourhood concept. It train students in thinking out of the box in solving housing problem of affordable homes.

RAS 603 - Design Thesis 1
Design Thesis 1 covers the implementation of architectural design projects proposed by final year students that combine all the knowledge in a specific topic of interest. Emphasis on aspects of practical research, innovation and problem solving, with realistic considerations recognized by the industry, existing acts and the requirements of local authorities in designing a building. Each student needs to identify the thesis topic individually, prepare a project overview, identify issues, conduct a site analysis study for the proposed project, create an appropriate concept and produce a design that has taken into account all aspects. Documentation and communication to convey a network of thoughts, compact and accurate sequence of ideas is a priority. The end result of the project is a set of graphic illustrations containing analysis, synthesis, justification, concepts, approaches, philosophies, architectural principles and a building designed based on these aspects. Students will produce physical or digital drawings and models as well as a development report on the design produced.

RAS 604 -Design Thesis 2
This studio is a continuation of Design Thesis 1 where the proposal in Semester 1 will be enhanced to an optimum level in solving design issues pertaining to the chosen subject matter. Attention is given to aspects of design details, technical specification, construction, structure, building services and environmental sustainability. Each student must highlight a special technology study in character and appropriate to the design issues. The final result of the project is a set of compact and accurate graphical illustrations of architectural design (drawings, physical models, structural and services study, and/or computer modeling/simulation) with a design and technical report.

RAT530 - Energy Efficient Building Design Technology
Expose students to the design element that can reduce building energy consumption for occupants’ comforts. These strategies are passively and actively innovative and promote the use of renewable energy. Introduce the criteria of Green Building Index which students need to understand and apply to design project in Studio level 400.

RAG 663 - Building Technology Integration
This course is the advanced level of construction and building components and its integration with technology systems and building services. Beginning with an overview of development and evolution of technology, followed by the optimum integration of structure, construction and materials with building services systems. Emphasis on high-rise and complex buildings as well as sustainable and green requirements.

RAK 555 - Professional Practice in Architecture 1
Exposure to the aspects of architect’s professionalism: The Architect Act of 1967; LAM & PAM registration; the professional code of conduct of behavior and responsibility to society; the work scope and professional fees; the appointment and the relationship with clients, consultants and contractors; stages and the

RAK 655 - Professional Practice in Architecture 2
Exposure to the introductory aspect of buildings’ contracts, types of contracts, PAM, JKR, CIDB etc. Special focus on contracts conditions PAM (with/without Quantities) clauses, tender process, terms, preparation of documents, selection and tender’s award in project implementation. It also covers planning procedures, UBBL, building and fire control requirements.

RAT 641 - Architectural Critics
A study on building typology becomes a critical subject in architecture and building design by referring to prominent buildings built by renowned architects as the case studies.

RAT532 - Architecture In Urban Design
This course focuses on a study of urban design elements and principles which are linkage theory, place theory, place making and urban systems. The course contents are also imparting study on the traditional and post-independence urban design.

RAG535 - BIM Integration in Architecture
The course expose students to the core concepts of BIM, the knowledge of implementing BIM as a process throughout project life cycle, hands-on experience through project- based learning approach and case studies. Students will develop collaboration skills and critical thinking from modelling architecture, structure, building services, costing and scheduling as well as managing BIM data and processes effectively.

RAT 545 - Housing Regulations and Practice
This course introduces related housing laws and regulation including the roles and responsibilities of housing developers, Housing Development (Control and Licensing) Act 1966, relationship between laws and construction players i.e developers, architects, government and housing buyers/owners.

RAL 671 - Research Methodology in Architecture
The course is an exercise in applied research pertaining to a special interest on various topics and current issue applicable to the design issues and problem statements. This course extends over one semester and exposes students to the first part of research work from topic selection, problem identification, literature review until research methodology phase. Students are encouraged to choose a topic relevant to their design thesis (final year project) that will enhance their understanding of design theory and pertinent issues which reflect an area related to Malaysian Architecture.

B. Research Project (5 units)

RAL 672 - Research Project in Architecture
The course is an exercise in applied research pertaining to a special interest on various topics and current issue applicable to the studio design issues and problem statements. This course extends over one semester after completion of RUL 671 Research Method in Architecture. It exposes students to the correct methodology of research work through data collection, analysis and communication. Students are encouraged to choose a topic relevant to their design thesis that will enhance their understanding of design theory and pertinent issues which reflect an area related to Malaysian Architecture.

The full-time program covers a minimum of one academic year (or equivalent to two semesters) during which time the students are also expected to submit their research project reports. The part-time program covers a minimum of two academic years. International students are only eligible to follow the MSc program on a full-time basis.

Master of Science (Project Management) is conferred to candidates who have accumulated not less than 44 credit units. Students are required to complete all courses listed as compulsory, project case studies and the research project.

Courses are conducted through lectures, tutorials, discussions, seminars, case studies and assignments. The language of instruction is English for intake with International students, replacing Bahasa Malaysia.

All courses are assessed by assignments and examinations at the end of every semester. For research projects, students are expected to submit a dissertation and attend a viva session.

Course Summary for Full-Time Studies

Course Summary for Part-Time Studies

-Under Maintenance-

Full-time : Min 4 semesters / Max 8 semesters

Semester 1

** Fees are subject to change

To apply for this program, please visit our official admissions portal at https://admission.usm.my/postgraduate. Follow the straightforward application process to submit your application and explore the possibilities of joining our vibrant academic community. We look forward to welcoming you to School of Housing, Building and Planning, Universiti Sains Malaysia and helping you embark on a transformative educational journey.