MASTER of ARCHITECTURE

Programme Education Objectives

The Programme Education Objective [PEO] of the Master of Architecture Proramme is as follows:

1. PEO 1: To produce graduates who are sought-after by employers and possess holistic knowledge in the field of architecture and proficient with the relevant skills.

2. PEO 2: To foster students with soft skill attributes in solving multi design task and   architectural problems.

3. PEO 3: To yield architecture graduates who exemplify leadership skills, virtuous attitude, and professional ethics.

4. PEO 4: To produce architecture graduates who are skillful on issues pertaining to sustainability of the built environment.

5. PEO 5: To produce graduates with global mindset attaining strong interest on architectural research and long-life learning.

Programme Outcomes

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.

Entry Requirements

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.

Course Structure

Graduation Requirements

For the Master of Architecture Programme, the following conditions must be fulfilled for students to graduate:

1. Fulfil the minimum of 4 semesters and not exceeding 8 semesters maximum of study.

2. Fulfil all the overall credits according to the requirements set by the University as well as the credits for all the components set by the school.

3. Obtain B- and GPA of 2.67 and above for all courses.

4. Obtaining CGPA of 3.00 and above for graduation.

Course Synopsis

A. Compulsory Courses

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.                                                                 

Learning Outcomes

At the end of the course students will be able to:

1. Develop schematic design ideas on high-rise building and final design outcome illustrations clearly.

2. Justify design proposal solutions on medium and high-rise buildings with urban context, philosophy, aesthetics, functional, technology and sustainability elements in a set of plans and complete presentation drawings.

3. Defend output of design proposal with good communication skills in an oral and visual presentation.

4. Solving project technical requirements and site investigation based on physical and environment comprehensively as a team and produce a project brief.

5. Execute research and information gathering based on by-laws and guidelines from local authorities to solve building design.

6. Demonstrate leadership quality to lead a team to plan site visit and case study effectively

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.                                                                

Learning Outcomes

At the end of the course students will be able to:

1. Develop schematic design ideas on housing typology and final design outcome illustrations clearly.

2. Justify design proposal solutions on human settlement issues and housing design in context, socio-culture, aesthetics, form, functional, technology and sustainability in a set of plans and complete presentation drawings.

3.  Defend output of housing design proposal with good communication skills in an oral and visual presentation.

4.  Solving housing site investigation and housing theories based on physical and environment comprehensively as a team and produce a project brief.

5.  Validate information, regulatory data and guidelines from local authorities to solve housing design.

6. Solving housing design based on development cost according to relevant guidelines.

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.

Learning Outcomes

 At the end of the course students will be able to:

1. Sketch the initial thesis design drawing using appropriate software and clear presentation format.

2. Interpret proposed thesis solution issues with context, socio-cultural, aesthetic, appearance, function, technology and sustainability in presentation drawings and plans.

3. Understand information from local authorities and statutory bodies professionally and ethically to complete building design projects.

4. Demonstrate thesis design with good oral and visual communication skills.

5. Propose a thesis design based on the guidelines and project cost calculation methods used in the development industry.

6. Organize scale drawings clearly and perfectly for the presentation of presentation ideas of a professional architect in the form of physical and digital media.

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.

Learning Outcomes

At the end of the course students will be able to:

1. Sketch the amended thesis design drawing using appropriate software and clear presentation format.

2. Interpret proposed thesis solution issues with integration of space making, forms, construction systems and detailing considerations with appropriate and innovative technological solutions.

3. Presenting a comprehensive archetypal solution with good oral and visual communication skills

4. Demonstrate understanding of information from local authorities and statutory bodies ethically to complete the design solutions and solving structural, services integration and exploring a special study area in clear, professional effective presentation and report.

5. Propose a thesis design based on the guidelines and project cost calculation methods used in the development industry.

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.                                                               

Learning Outcomes

At the end of the course students will be able to:

1. Distinguish passive and active technology in building design for Malaysia to reduce energy consumption in buildings and achieve occupant comfort.

2. Evaluate the effectiveness of the current energy efficient building design technology.

3. Analyse Overall Thermal Transfer Value (OTTV) in design of building envelope to achieve energy efficiency.

4. Compose passive and active technology in building design to achieve high energy efficiency in accordance with green rating criteria.

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. 

Learning Outcomes

At the end of the course students will be able to:

1. Synthesize literature review and case study on technology of materials, construction components and building services systems and to report findings in a seminar paper and comprehensive report.

2. Display proof and research information with good oral and visual communication clearly and critically.

3. Verify case study data by direct observation and interview method as well as to manage information against regulatory requirement.

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                                                                         

Learning Outcomes

At the end of the course students will be able to:

1. Correlate and check registration process registered architect and professionalism as well as the role of the Board of Architects Malaysia (LAM) and related agencies.

2. Compare and professionally identify the results of a group study on the understanding of the architectural profession in the field of built environment and architecture.

3. Proposed the initial proposal of building design as well as understand management and entrepreneurship based on the Architects Act 1967, professional code of conduct, minimum fee scale in the implementation of a project.

4. Provide measuring and organising design technical and financial proposals based on the initial recommendations of a project.

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.

Learning Outcomes

At the end of the course students will be able to:

1. Linking the process of contract administration and construction based on PAM Contract, JKR 203 Contract, UBBL and other existing laws in the process of building a building project in Malaysia.

2. Identify the completed building project and the firm of architects involved in the project and report the findings in the form of a complete report.

3. Confirm the issues and problems that arise in the building construction process based on the acts, guidelines, UBBL, and types of construction contracts clearly and critically.

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.                                                                  

Learning Outcomes

At the end of the course students will be able to:

1. Appraise critical aspect and theories of architecture.

2. Produce writings and article compilation on architectural criticism.

3. Present and communicate critical thinking ideas.

4. Conduct research in a team and in ethical manner.

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. 

Learning Outcomes

At the end of the course students will be able to:

1. Summarize urban design elements based on local results in the study.

2. Demonstrate presentation skills in written and visual communication for the presentation of analytical results and research findings.

3. Summarize urban design elements in traditional, colonial and modern 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.

Learning Outcomes

At the end of the course students will be able to:

1. Appraise the application of BIM in projects and the challenges face by multiple stakeholders to achieve the application of BIM in building life cycle.

2. Display the ability to work effectively in a team producing a BIM model and report within stipulated timeframe.

3. Construct BIM model and generate data for BIM integration between multiple fields collaboratively.

RAT545 - 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.                                                                                                            

Learning Outcomes

At the end of the course students will be able to:

1. Elaborate knowledge on housing aspects in Malaysia and relate to on-going current housing-related issues to regulations and architectural practice.

2. Report on field studies of existing housing projects and cross-reference its compliance to relevant housing guideline in Malaysia.

3. Comprehend professional ethics of a Professional Architect in handling current issues/problems and the relevant legal obligations in the Malaysian housing

4. Defend the evaluation of housing issues with proposed solutions in good communication.

B. Research Project

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 studio 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.

Learning Outcomes

At the end of the course students will be able to:

1. Identify the topics of architectural research that will be explored through an understanding of the theory and concepts of architectural knowledge.

2. Develop individual communication skills with an ethical and responsible attitude towards the building design environment during the supervision progress and dissertation presentation in the viva session.

3. Relate information obtained so that it can be developed in the study of building design.

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 675 Research Project 1. 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.   

Learning Outcomes

At the end of the course students will be able to:

1. Building architectural knowledge, methods and critical evaluation in analysis in accordance with correlate the study of designing new architectural building through writing.

2. Implement communication skills to reach agreement in consultation with an ethical and responsible attitude against building design environment during progress supervision and dissertation presentation in viva session. 

 Grading System