First Year of Study
APPM1000A Applied Mathematics (7 credits; semester 1)
Vector algebra, systems of coplanar forces, transversely loaded beams, frameworks, centres of gravity.
ARPL1000A Architectural Design and Theory I (60 credits; full year)
As an introduction to the design studio, this course lays the foundations of architectural thinking by presenting conceptual design principles, architectural elements, contextual influences, basic space-making and collaborative engagement. Emphasis is placed on the development of design processes and methods of production to explore architectural possibilities.
ARPL1001A Theory and Practice of Construction I (30 credits; full year)
Introduction to basic building technology, materials and National Building Regulations. Roles and responsibilities of architects. Introduction to technical drawing. Building processes in domestic contexts, elementary services of water supply, sewerage reticulation and electrical supply. Introduction to topography, basic survey techniques and soil conditions. Services related to specific soil conditions.
ARPL1028A Design Representation I (10 credits; semester 1)
Introduction to forms of design and architectural representation and production. Through measured, free-hand, and creative forms of visual representation, the course introduces the fundamentals of descriptive geometry, three-dimensional representation drawings, principles of perspective drawing, and various methods of producing illustrative and rendered means of visual representation.
ARPL1029A Digital Applications in Architecture I (10 credits; semester 2)
Introduction to digital architectural production. The course uses contemporary industry-relevant software in the architectural discipline as tools for both architectural design and representation.
ARPL1030A Building Ecology (7 credits; semester 2)
This course introduces theoretical underpinnings of, and design approaches to, the harmonious and interdependent relationship of the natural and built environment. It explores the interconnectedness of design and socio-ecological systems, and critically examines the influences and effects of various scales of planning, design and building on approaches to sustainability.
ARPL1031A Histories and Theories of Architecture I (8 credits; semester 1)
This course explores the foundations of spatial culture as found in human habitation before “settlement,” and the nature of early settlements, landscapes and ritual spaces.
ARPL1032A History of Settlement, Architecture and Planning (12 credits, semester 2)
This course provides fundamental knowledge on settlements and architectural productions in Africa and in other parts of the world. A selection of settlements, architectural design, art objects, and spatial ensembles from different periods of time in Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America are used to show that urban and regional planning and architectural programmes are continuously evolving along with human experiences in temporal and in physical spaces.
Second Year of Study
ARPL2000A Architectural Design and Theory II (60 credits; full year)
Through an integrated presentation of theory, practical analyses and creative design processes, this course emphasises the development of sustainable architectural approaches in myriad contexts. Theory of place-making and the role of ecological, cultural and socio-economic considerations form core tenets of design and analysis projects developed in response to natural systems, urban influences, topography, and the integration of building and landscape across small-scale, mixed-use, and multi-unit housing buildings.
ARPL2002A Theory and Practice of Construction II (30 credits; full year)
Introduction to framed structures (timber, steel and concrete), cladding systems. Services related to framed structures. Relevant National Building Regulations. Building climate: thermal concepts and principles; passive and active energy system; use of solar charts and shading diagrams.
ARPL2012A Histories and Theories of Architecture (20 credits; full year)
This course explores architecture and its codification until the roots of modernism. The architecture of dynastic, religious and imperial centres of power in relation to technological developments, new materials, religious and aesthetic ideals are examined.
ARPL2019A Design Representation II (10 credits; semester 1)
Intermediate forms of design and architectural representation and production. Through targeted design/representation projects, the course focuses on design and creative production through a selection of representational media.
ARPL2020A Digital Applications in Architecture II (10 credits; semester 2)
Intermediate digital architectural production. The course elaborates on the use of contemporary industry-relevant software to create intermediate forms of architectural production, preparing for advanced methods of architectural design and representation.
CIVN2018A Civil Engineering Theory I (7 credits; semester 2)
This course applies the principles of static equilibrium and structural analysis to determine forces and deflections in simple structural systems. Loading and structural load paths are presented. The diagramming of shear, moment, and axial forces are undertaken, and the analysis of trusses is introduced.
APRPL2021A Introduction to Structures (7 credits; semester 1)
An introduction to structural systems in the architectural and building construction fields, this course presents a survey of structural types and their relationship to the design of buildings. A conceptual introduction to structural principles is presented and their influences on architectural design is analysed.
Third Year of Study
ARPL3002A Small Office Practice (7 credits; semester 1)
The concept of professionalism, architect/client relationships, consultant teams, small-scale contracting, contract without bills of quantities, elementary estimating, computer packages, certificates and final accounts, forms of architectural practice, financial planning, taxation, staffing, standard documents, managing projects, marketing professional services.
ARPL3005A Architectural Design and Theory III (70 credits; full year)
Using a pluralistic approach to architecture and a range of design approaches and methodologies, this course requires the conceptual and technical development of varied and complex architectural projects. The ability to holistically complete an architectural project is emphasised through the integration of building systems with cohesive conceptual, technical, aesthetic and sustainability objectives.
ARPL3031A Theory and Practice of Construction III (33 credits; full year)
Design development and detail design of large scale and complex building types. Detailed consideration of services and building infrastructure. Sustainable construction and design as a way to improve the environmental and maintenance performance of buildings through designing with the natural environment, climate, comfort, energy, water, resources, efficient structures, materials, daylighting and landscaping. Application and adherence to the relevant National Building Regulations including SANS10400. Introduction to industrialized building systems. Introduction to specifications. Approaches to environmental control and performance modelling. Preparation of detailed technical documentation.
ARPL3021A Histories and Theories of Architecture III (20 credits; full year)
This course explores architectural histories and theories since modernism. It surveys both built and imagined architecture and how social emancipation, globalisation and media have characterised its production. The course extends knowledge of recent architecture and builds critical skills.
CIVN3029A Civil Engineering Theory II (7 credits; semester 1)
This course focuses on common building materials and their application in structural systems. Material properties and behavior, limit states design, and construction methods are investigated.
CIVN3030A Civil Engineering Theory III (7 credits; semester 2)
This course explores more complex, but common, structural systems in buildings. Material properties, types of structural foundations and connections, and the structural design of beams, columns and slabs are considered. An understanding of geotechnical information and its relevance for structural design is presented.