Design Thesis

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2015:

340 hours

Admission into one of the following courses:

MC-ARCH Master of Architecture
MC-ARCH2Y Master of Architecture (200 points)
MC-ARCH3Y Master of Architecture (300 points)

PLUS

completion of all the following subjects:

It is recommended that Master of Architecture students complete ABPL90140 Architectural Practice prior to enrolling in this subject.

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Student Support and Engagement Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Learning Outcomes, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and Student Equity and Disability Support: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability

This subject is the culmination of each student's studies in Master of Architecture. It will consist of a number of autonomous studio groups offering a range of opportunities for students to demonstrate an original approach to design synthesis in the relevant discipline, which is based on research and critical thinking. These studios may offer an interdisciplinary experience with students working alongside others in a parallel design discipline.

Students will be expected to demonstrate mastery of design resolution, conceptual engagement and aesthetic expression.

With course coordinator approval, high-achieving students may undertake the Design Thesis as an individually supervised design investigation. Similarly, under exceptional circumstances and with course coordinator approval, the Design Thesis may be undertaken as a written thesis.

On completion of this subject, students will be able to:

• demonstrate a capacity to make a contribution to the existing body of knowledge in architectural theory and practice
• demonstrate critical awareness of how their chosen specialisation contributes to this body of knowledge
• demonstrate an understanding of design as a form of research enquiry

Written, graphic and verbal presentations to the equivalent of 10,000 words. Submission of project work will be progressive: 10% assignment (Week 3); 30% assignment (Week 7); 60% submission at the end of semester.

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

• Written, verbal and graphic presentation of ideas
• Correct use of design terminology
• Ability to analyse social and cultural contexts
• Critical thinking and analysis
• Creative response to complex problems
• Ability to select the appropriate design approach