Thinking about studying architecture at a postgraduate level? A Master of Architecture can help you reach new heights in your career. Hear how from a recent graduate.
Aaron Barton completed his master’s degree at UQ in 2023. Discover what he found most rewarding about this postgraduate architecture degree and why he’d recommend it to other aspiring architects.
UQ has a fantastic architecture program which makes space for speculative thinking whilst maintaining the technical support and skills to realise big ideas.
What inspired you to pursue a Master of Architecture?
Aaron: I used to own and operate a small bespoke design studio, but I was working at a scale which I felt had limited impact on the world’s big problems. I pursued my master’s to better equip me with the skills to take on the complex city-building problems we need to face.
How have your postgraduate studies helped you achieve your career goals and find success?
Aaron: A Master of Architecture is a required step to become an architect, so it has helped greatly. Through the process, we engaged in bigger-picture thinking and by consequence had to learn how to communicate complex ideas. I do this on a day-to-day basis now as a project lead, and my master’s served me well in preparing for those conversations.
What was your path to studying the Master of Architecture?
Aaron: To study a Master of Architecture, you’re required to complete a Bachelor of Architecture first. I didn't take any time between the two, but I would recommend it if you’re still figuring out what type of architecture you want to practise.
I’m a father as well, so managing postgraduate studies alongside a job and family was a challenge. I only did 2 subjects each semester – plus a few summer semesters – to manage the workload.
Many postgraduate programs at UQ offer flexible study options to help you balance returning to uni with your other commitments. Learn more about flexible postgrad study at UQ.
What did your average day look like while studying postgraduate architecture?
Aaron: Wake up early, draw draw draw. Rush to a lecture or studio, bathe in coffee – so much coffee – work through ideas with studio leaders, panic, then draw draw draw. Repeat.
And what does your average day look like now as a graduate?
Aaron: I’m now a project leader at the Office for Metropolitan Architecture (OMA). I try get in early before everyone else and outline my day, then check-ins with the team, check-ins with consultants and the client, before translating these conversations into content. At the moment, this means coordinating presentation packs and making sure the scheme is in line with the constraints of the brief, budget and stakeholder expectations. The most rewarding part is when it all comes together, everyone’s proud of their work, and the client is excited about what's to come.
Why did you choose UQ for your postgraduate degree in architecture?
Aaron: UQ has a fantastic architecture postgraduate program which makes space for speculative thinking whilst maintaining the technical support and skills to realise big ideas.
Which postgraduate architecture courses and teachers helped you the most?
Aaron: I found both the theory and design courses to be the most useful. The theory arms you with the language to articulate the why, and the design gives you the space to test the how.
- I really enjoyed Landscapes and Architecture with Manu Sobti for the rich conversations around architecture’s spatial impact in the environment.
- I also really enjoyed Generative Structures with Kim Baber and Cathy Keys, where we pushed traditional timber construction.
What advice would you give someone considering a postgraduate degree in architecture?
Aaron: The most important thing is to know what you want to get out of your studies. The course is a framework for you to explore your chosen interest in the way that makes sense to you, and without that self-directed focus, you could get lost in it all. But your teachers are there to help you articulate this, so if you’re ever not sure, find someone to speak to.
UQ's Career Development team can help you tailor your studies to fit your desired career.
How can you study postgraduate architecture at UQ?
UQ offers a Master of Architecture, which is accredited by the Board of Architects of Queensland and the Australian Institute of Architects. This program takes 2 years to complete with full-time study but can also be studied part time.
If you're interested in this field of study but not sure if the Master of Architecture is the best fit for you, consider one of our related programs:
- Master of Urban Development and Design
- Master of Urban and Regional Planning
- Master of Environmental Management
- Master of Geographic Information Science
Find out how to get postgrad ready in 12 months or discover what it’s like to study postgraduate programs in other fields.
