Master of Architecture

Purpose

The purpose of the Master of Architecture is to offer the final year of the 'Part 2' level (as defined by the South African Council for the Architectural Profession [SACAP] in terms of Act 44 of 2000), thereby preparing learners for entry into the architectural profession at the 'Candidate Architect' registration category. Having obtained this qualification, the learner will demonstrate competence in the specified exit level outcomes; conduct independent research at a high theoretical and design-research based level, and independently perform architectural services in both the public and private sectors, or specialised fields within the built environment-related disciplines.

Rationale

The qualification is aligned with the Higher Education Quality Council (HEQC) guidelines while complying with international best practice. To meet these objectives, elements of the South African Council for the Architectural Profession (SACAP) validated and retained Master of Technology qualification in a modified format. Successful completion of this qualification will lead learners to 'Candidate Architect' status, the statutory requirement for entry into the architectural profession.

The qualification responds to the Department of Higher Education and Training's notice that places the architecture profession in the top 100 occupations in demand in South Africa (according to Notice 380 of 2014 National Scarce Skills List, dated 24 April 2014.) There are eight schools of architecture in South Africa which offer Master's level qualifications. While learner numbers in South Africa have increased dramatically overall, the number of schools offering Master's level qualifications in architecture has remained static since 2013. By offering the qualification, the institution will be able to capitalise on the growing learner demand for top-quality, internationally benchmarked qualifications.

The Master of Technology: Architectural Technology (Prof) qualification has been validated and recognised by SACAP since 2014. Qualifying learners registered as Candidate Architects and after two years of working under the mentorship of a Professional Architect, sat for SACAP's Professional Practice examination before registering as Professional Architects. South African learners who complete the Master of Architecture will follow the same route thereby alleviating the shortage of architects as described above, benefitting the general economy and the provision of infrastructure, highlighted in the government's development plans.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The institution accepts Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) as an integral part of education and academic practice. The institution s acknowledge that all learning has value and will endeavour to assess prior learning and award credit where relevant.

The institution manages RPL according to the institution's RPL policy, which will be applied as follows for this qualification as set out in the Faculty Qualifications and Regulations policy;

• Through Recognition of Prior Learning, a learner may gain access, or advanced placement, or recognition of status, on condition that he/she continues his/her studies at the institution;
• Recognition takes place in terms of requirements and procedures applied by the institution;
• RPL is based on other forms of formal, informal and non-formal learning and experience;

and considered only where prior learning corresponds to the required NQF - level;

• RPL takes place where prior learning in terms of applied competencies is relevant to the content and outcomes of the qualification.

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is

• Bachelor of Architecture Honours, NQF Level 8, 120 Credits.

Or

• Bachelor of Architectural Studies Honours, NQF Level 8, 120 Credits.

This qualification comprises of compulsory modules at NQF Level 9 totalling 180 Credits.

Compulsory Dissertation, 180 Credits.

1. Review an appropriate architectural design challenge at the required level of complexity and environmental or societal impact.
2. Apply appropriate research methods and processes, resolve an approved architectural or urban design project.
3. Expand the research topic into an approved architectural brief which underpins the research and design investigation(s).
4. Develop the design project to a prescribed level of technical detail (including mechanical and structural systems; innovative technologies, construction materials and methods.
5. Apply accepted office practice protocols, effective administration systems, legal protocols and professional ethics to facilitate successful construction of architectural projects.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1

• Design an appropriate architectural challenge, at the required level of complexity and environmental or societal impact can be identified, described and critically discussed.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2

• Deploy appropriate research methods and processes to the design of an approved architectural or urban design project.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3

• Underpin the research and design investigation(s) of an approved architectural brief.
• Integrate and understand the historical, theoretical and practical underpinnings of the design project, including a literature survey and review, precedent studies and synthesise the design project with these underpinnings.

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4

• Demonstrate an appropriate means of representation (CAD; drawings; photography; film or texts) for the chosen project.
• Present the project in accordance with established national and international professional standards and protocols.
• Develop the design project to a prescribed level of technical detail (including mechanical and structural systems; innovative technologies, construction materials and methods).

Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5

• Learner facilitate successful construction of architectural projects, office practice, effective administration systems, legal protocols and professional ethics.

Integrated Assessment

• Formative assessment will take place continuously. There are to be two important marking and grading points throughout the year: half-way through the year (the Mid-Year Portfolio Review) and just before the final examination and exhibition, at the end of the year (the Final Portfolio Review-see hereunder). Learners will not be present at the portfolio reviews. Instead, Unit Leaders and Tutors will assess each other's learners' work through a peer review process, coming to a consensus about grading.
• After each Portfolio Review, learners will be given written feedback and a grade, which will count towards a final performance grade of the year. After final portfolios have been assessed at the end of each year, learners' grades will be ratified by external examiners in a final marks discussion as detailed in the following section.

Assessment of Final Design Portfolios (Minor Dissertations)

The institution will follow both traditional research (written) and design research methodologies. In the M Arch qualification, learners will submit their work in a format that combines both. Their Final Design Portfolio will combine text, drawings, photographs, models and films in a single, coherent document, which will be sent to the examiners for perusal four weeks before their examinations. The Final Design Portfolio will comprise of four parts:

• Major Design Project.
• History and Theory Minor Dissertation.
• Design Resolution Portfolio.
• Professional Practice Essay.