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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

Master of Architecture (Professional) 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
62969  Master of Architecture (Professional) 
ORIGINATOR
University of the Free State 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Master's Degree  Field 12 - Physical Planning and Construction  Physical Planning, Design and Management 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  136  Level 8 and above  NQF Level 09  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Reregistered" 		 SAQA 1141/23  2021-07-01  2024-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2025-06-30   2028-06-30  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:

(This submission of this professional qualification is necessitated by developments in the professional architectural educational sector).

The purpose of the qualification is to provide graduates who will be able to register as a Candidate Professional Architect in terms of the Architectural Professions Act No 44 of 2000.

As Candidate Professional Architect the qualified learner will be competent to assist in providing full professional services in client liaison, the research, design, detailing, documentation, administration and supervision of the construction process and completion of any scale complex projects in the built environment, complying professionally with legal and statutory requirements.

This qualification requires learners to demonstrate competence in integrating spatial design, building technology and independent research through submission of a self-motivated, supervised thesis project. In addition, it qualifies learners to study further for higher qualifications in architecture (an entry point to Master in Architecture by research) or in related disciplines.

Rationale:
  • The Department of Architecture at the University of the Free State is the closest institution of its kind to the Free State, Lesotho and Northern Cape to provide professional training for candidates that aspire to become professional architects.
  • The Department provides architectural education in both Afrikaans and English, making it accessible to most candidates locally, nationally and internationally.
  • As in the past, the Department envisions to be frequently involved in providing professional advice with reference to specific community needs relating to the design of real building projects concerning varying local communities. As such the Department of Architecture has been involved in providing guidance in the design of numerous projects for varied components of the local community, for example community centers, religious buildings, schools, and housing. The Unit for Earth Construction has also been involved in the building of a prototype house, day care centers; research center; ablution facilities; economical development center. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Learners should have an understanding of the cultural, social, economic, environmental and ethical framework within which Architects operate. They should be competent to design complexes of buildings in a variety of contexts, have an understanding of sustainable building materials and construction techniques and be able to apply this knowledge to their own designs. They should also have an understanding of the history and theory of their discipline and how to appropriately apply such historical and theoretical principles in their designs. Learners should be able to conduct independent and appropriate research individually.

    Learners should be computer literate in areas of word processing, computer aided design and three-dimensional modeling, and be able to communicate effectively, verbally and graphically.

    Recognition of Prior Learning:

    Formal Prior Learning:

    Prior Learning is recognized if evidence is produced that shows that the learner has achieved at a satisfactory level, the outcomes for admission to programmes of study leading to the achievement of the Qualification in part or in full subject to the rules contained in he RPL policy documents of the providers.

    Non Formal Prior Learning:

    An applicant whose level of knowledge, skills, competencies and attitudes have not been assessed earlier in terms of the formal Qualification in question but can demonstrate in appropriate ways, through assessment by this institution (Department of Architecture in particular, and University of the FS in general), that he/she has acquired those skills and competencies, may be considered for admission to the programme of study leading to this Qualification.

    An applicant who, after such assessment is deemed to have sufficient potential but is in need of further academic development, will be directed to other suitable learning programmes prior to admission or to parallel programmes after admission.

    General:

    For the recognition of both formal and informal prior learning, the assessment will be done via presentation by the applicant of a portfolio to an assessment panel, the members of which will be compiled by the UFS Department of Architecture, and as approved by the UFS authorities.

    At the moment the South African Council for the Architectural Profession is in the process of establishing a policy and procedure for the assessment of prior learning for the purposes of professional registration, the outcome of which can enhance the further refinement of the process in academic institutions, as indicated above.

    Access to the Qualification:

    In order to enroll, learners:
  • Must be in possession of B Arch (Hons) or equivalent.
  • May be required to present a design portfolio at an interview for selection when they come from another institution.

    This qualification/programme will provide learners with the same articulation opportunities as the present advanced B Arch degree, that is, it serves as an entry point to a research-based masters degree in Architecture (M Arch) or equivalent masters degree (research or by course work in related fields such as Urban Design, City and Regional Planning, Interior Design and Landscape Architecture) at institutions for higher education in Southern Africa, Great Britain and the Commonwealth countries.
  • Ph.D. (Architecture): 3 years.
  • M.Arch. (Research): 1 year.

    OR:
  • M Arch (Prof): 1 year.
  • B Arch (Hons): 1 year.
  • B Arch Stud: 3 years. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    Level, credits and learning components assigned to the qualification:
  • NQF Level: 8.
  • Credits: 136.

    Fundamental Learning; Core Learning; Elective Learning:
  • 16 credits; 120 credits; 0 credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    Overall learning outcome:

    The candidate will be able on an advanced level to demonstrate the ability to:
  • Communicate specialized theoretical and practical knowledge of the discipline of architecture to others, and to apply and implement this knowledge as particular design solutions to varying problems within the wider context of the built environment.
  • Conduct supervised as well as independent research and integrate research information; theoretical premises; analyses of historical and contemporary precedents; complex technical issues relating to construction and services; intricate planning solutions referring to multi-functional programmes within multi-cultural contexts; and broader urban design issues relating to physical context, socio-economic, cultural and legal concerns.
  • Visually, graphically and verbally communicating creatively and competently, architectural and urban design ideas to the client.
  • Assist in applying management principles and skills in the administration and supervision of building projects within the professional and legal framework of the private and public building sector, and assist in exercising entrepreneurial skills in the management of an architectural office as a professional business within the wider business and commercial environment.
  • Undertake independent architectural and urban research at a master's level.

    Specific Exit-level Outcomes:

    1. The qualifying learner demonstrates in depth knowledge appropriate to the discipline, and critical, analytical thinking to appreciate, research, interpret, refine and modify existing knowledge of architecture.

    2. The qualifying learner demonstrates knowledge of architectural research methods, skills in the practice of architectural research appropriate to a specific context and the ability to integrate architectural research and design.

    3. The qualifying learner shows design competencies at a range of different scales, from the urban, to the level of architectural detailing.

    4. The qualifying learner is familiar with current technological knowledge and is able to integrate it with design solutions.

    5. The qualifying learner is able to communicate appropriately and effectively.

    6. The learner is able to present material using innovative, effective and appropriate visual techniques in two and three dimensions, showing a high level of technical competence.

    7. The qualifying learner demonstrates self-directed, independent thought and practice.

    8. The qualifying learner is able to work in group work and directly with outside parties in a professional manner.

    9. The qualifying learner has developed a broad understanding of the wider social and natural systems, which impact on architecture, and has developed an appreciation for cultural and aesthetic diversity.

    10. The qualifying learner reflects and acts upon a wide range of learning strategies, both existing and innovative.

    11. The qualifying learner has acquired the knowledge, values and practical skills to engage in professional architectural practice in the community in a responsible, ethical manner, and in accordance with legal and statutory requirements.

    12. The qualifying learner will be equipped to develop entrepreneurial skills and opportunities in a future career. 
    		•

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Assessment Criteria for Specific Exit-Level Outcome 1:

    The qualifying learner:
  • Demonstrates ability to analyse and interpret knowledge critically.
  • Demonstrates ability to analyse and evaluate research material.
  • Is able to engage in critical debate in the field of study.
  • Demonstrates competence in independent research.

    Assessment Criteria for Specific Exit-Level Outcome 2:

    The qualifying learner demonstrates:
  • An understanding of architectural research methods and procedures.
  • Competence in a field of architectural research, both individually and as a member of a team.

    And shows ability to:
  • Select and motivate an appropriate piece of architectural research in relation to a design thesis.

    Assessment Criteria for Specific Exit-Level Outcome 3:

    The qualifying learner is able to:
  • Frame design questions critically.
  • Produce and demonstrate coherent and well resolved architectural designs that integrate knowledge of the social, political, economic and professional context that guides building construction.
  • Evaluate and appraise design briefs critically to ensure that the design response is appropriate to site and context and for reasons such as sustainability and budget.

    And demonstrates an appropriate competence in the areas of:
  • Architectural design.
  • Technical design.
  • Urban design.

    And demonstrates an appropriate philosophical approach which reveals an understanding of theory in a cultural context.

    Assessment Criteria for Specific Exit-Level Outcome 4:

    The qualifying learner is familiar with and able to integrate knowledge of:
  • Current technological norms and practices.
  • The principles and theories associated with visual, thermal, and acoustic environments.
  • Sustainable design and the relationship between climate, built form, construction, life style, energy consumption and human well being and is able to:
    > Research.
    > Select.
    > Develop.

    Structural and constructional strategies or a complex building or group of buildings, employing integrative knowledge of:
  • Structural theories.
  • Construction techniques and processes.
  • The physical properties of building materials.
  • The provision of building services.

    The environmental impact of specification choices in a sustainable manner.

    Assessment Criteria for Specific Exit-Level Outcome 5:

    The qualifying learner demonstrates skill at communicating ideas and information to people from a wide range of backgrounds:
  • Orally.
  • In writing.
  • Graphically.

    Assessment Criteria for Specific Exit-Level Outcome 6:

    The qualifying learner can:
  • Represent creative ideas.

    Produce technical drawings both manually and using computer technology innovatively and technically competently.

    Assessment Criteria for Specific Exit-Level Outcome 7:

    In order to perform adequately in addressing all facets of the programme the qualifying learner shows time management, prioritization and initiative at a professional level. The qualifying learner is able to define, motivate and tackle problems with initiative and in an independent manner.

    Assessment Criteria for Specific Exit-Level Outcome 8:

    The qualifying learner demonstrates professionalism in collaboration, group work and consultation with outside bodies.

    Assessment Criteria for Specific Exit-Level Outcome 9:

    The qualifying learner demonstrates:
  • An understanding of the influences on the contemporary built environment of individual buildings, the design of cities, past and present societies and wider global issues.
  • An understanding of the histories and theories (historical and contemporary) of architecture and urban design, and its application in critical debate and design.
  • An understanding of the implications of decisions taken on wider systems and the ability to critically appraise and form judgments about the qualities of a design (spatial, aesthetic, technical and social) within the scope of a wider environment.
  • The values required for participation in society as a respected and respectful citizen.

    Assessment Criteria for Specific Exit-Level Outcome 10:

    The qualifying learner shows:
  • The ability to engage in critical assessment of current teaching and learning practice.
  • The ability to evaluate and improve personal work practices.
  • The ability to evaluate and make decisions about a future career path.

    Assessment Criteria for Specific Exit-Level Outcome 11:

    The qualifying learner demonstrates a working knowledge of:
  • Architectural practice.
  • Contract and environmental law.
  • The roles and responsibilities of an architect in relation to building contracts.
  • Project management.

    The qualifying learner shows the ability to:
  • Reflect upon and act in an ethical manner with communities, individuals and the environment.

    The qualifying learner acquires knowledge to:
  • Set up. Organize and manage an architectural practice.
  • Provide a competent professional service.

    Assessment Criteria for Specific Exit-Level Outcome 12:

    The qualifying learner demonstrates:
  • Initiative.
  • Entrepreneurial strategies.
  • Independence of thought and action.
  • Communication and networking skills.
  • An understanding of financial management and control in a professional situation.

    Integrated Assessment:

    Written and illustrated Minor Dissertation Design Document (comprising a researched treatise and full design documentation - design sketches, working drawings and 3-dimensional models as documentation indicating research, design, philosophical/theoretical, technical, contractual, management, communication and graphic representational competencies), and its presentation to a panel of assessors providing a theoretically and scientifically informed solution to a complex design solution and demonstrating verbal and graphic communication skills.

    Other Modules: Written reports, assignments, documentation and written and oral examinations. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The Qualification is comparable in length and vigour of standard with similar five year academic professional advanced Qualifications (whether B ARCH or M ARCH (prof) or similar) throughout the world. Due to the recognition of the current B Arch Qualification by international professional bodies like the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and Commonwealth Association of Architects, it will give access to registration or licensing as a professional architect subject to experience and examination requirements being met.

    The current advanced B.Arch. degree is recognized to be the equivalent to the RIBA Part II qualification.

    In Britain, the British Commonwealth nations, Europe and the USA, there exists no identical manner as to the structuring and naming of the advanced professional Qualification for architectural education that acts as an entry point to the professional registering with the respective professional bodies. In all cases however the common trend is a five year academic programme which may consists of a continuous five year Qualification, or a split three year undergraduate programme followed by a two year advanced programme, the latter of which may also be split into a one year Honnours Qualification (or equivalent) followed by a one year Master's by coursework Qualification. Current trends in Europe and the USA however seem to indicate an increasing adaptation to the model of a one year Honnours followed by the Master's by coursework Qualification. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification/programme will provide learners with the same articulation opportunities as the present advanced B Arch degree, that is, it serves as an entry point to a research-based masters degree in Architecture (M Arch) or equivalent masters degree (research or by course work in related fields such as Urban Design, City and Regional Planning, Interior Design and Landscape Architecture) at institutions for higher education in Southern Africa, Great Britain and the Commonwealth countries.

    Ph.D. (Architecture): 3 years.
    M.Arch. (Research): 1 year.

    OR:

    M Arch (Prof): 1 year.
    B Arch (Hons): 1 year.
    B.Arch. Stud.: 3 years. 

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    Moderation options:

    In order to ensure that the assessment is fair, reliable and valid:
  • Internal and external examiners (academics and practitioners) assess all modules.
  • The design topic for the design thesis has to be approved by the Head of Department and the title of the thesis by the Faculty.
  • The learner is assessed on the treatise and documentation of the design thesis by a panel of examiners selected by the staff of the Department of Architecture and comprises internal and external assessors representing both academics and professional practitioners.
  • External assessors are selected and appointed on academic qualification and relevant experience in research and/or practice.
  • The regulating professional bodies (see 12.2 below) conduct accreditation visits in which submissions in terms of the lowest pass and highest fail are reviewed so as to verify that the minimum standards as required by the profession are being met.

    Regulating professional bodies:
  • South African Council for the Architectural Profession:

    Address:

    The Registrar
    S A Council for the Architectural Profession
    Private Bag X 02
    RANDPARK RIDGE 2156
  • Commonwealth Association of Architects (CAA):

    Address:

    The Director Education
    CAA
    66 Portland Place
    LONDON W1N 4AD
    United Kingdom
  • Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA):

    Address:

    The Professional Officer Education
    RIBA
    66 Portland Place
    LONDON W1N 4D
    United Kingdom
  • National and International external examiners from other universities, research institutions and practice. 
    		•

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2009; 2012; 2015. 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    1. University of the Free State 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.