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Study Guide: Architecture in Malaysia

Thinking about diving into architecture? It's not just about designing buildings—it's a cool creative and intellectual journey. When you pursue an architecture degree, you're not only sketching structures; you're delving into ideas that shape our world. Think about how diverse cultures play with space or what makes up an awesome community. Joining an architecture program is like unlocking a fantastic educational adventure that can benefit everyone involved!

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Architecture

 

Architecture is a multifaceted field that encompasses the design, planning, and construction of buildings and other structures. It involves the creative and technical processes of shaping the physical environment for human use and habitation. Architects not only design the visual appearance of structures but also consider functionality, safety, and the impact on the surrounding environment.

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Architecture goes beyond the aesthetic aspects and often incorporates elements of art, science, and technology. Architects strive to create spaces that are not only visually appealing but also practical, sustainable, and in harmony with their cultural and environmental context. The field includes various types of structures, such as residential buildings, commercial spaces, public buildings, and landscapes.

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Imagine you want to build a special house where you can live and play. Architecture is like drawing a picture of how that house will look and figuring out how to make it strong, safe, and cozy. Architects are like artists who use their imagination to create beautiful and useful buildings. They think about what materials to use, how to arrange rooms so they make sense, and even how to make the house friendly to the environment around it. So, architecture is like magic drawing to make the best homes and buildings for people to enjoy!

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Types of Architecture

 

There are various types of architecture, each with its own distinctive characteristics and purposes. Here are some common types of architecture:

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  • Residential Architecture: Focuses on the design and construction of homes and living spaces

  • Commercial Architecture: Involves the design of buildings for businesses and commercial purposes. This includes offices, retail spaces, and other structures meant for economic activities.

  • Industrial Architecture: Concentrates on designing buildings for industrial purposes, such as factories, warehouses, and manufacturing plants

  • Institutional Architecture: Encompasses the design of structures for institutions like schools, hospitals, government buildings, and other public facilities.

  • Landscape Architecture: Involves the planning and design of outdoor spaces, including parks, gardens, and public areas.

  • Interior Architecture: Focuses on the design and arrangement of interior spaces within buildings. Interior architects work on creating functional and aesthetically pleasing indoor environments.

  • Green Architecture (Sustainable or Eco-Friendly Architecture): Emphasizes environmentally conscious design and construction practices to minimize the impact on the environment.

  • Historical Architecture: Involves the study and preservation of buildings with historical significance. Architects working in this field may be involved in restoring or renovating older structures.

  • Contemporary Architecture: Represents the current trends and styles in architecture. It often embraces modern materials and technologies to create innovative and unique designs.

  • Cultural Architecture: Encompasses structures designed for cultural and artistic purposes, such as museums, theaters, and concert halls.

Entry Requirements to Study Architecture

 

These are the general entry requirements to pursue a degree in architecture.  Entry requirements for some universities may be higher, so do make sure you check the details carefully.

  • A-Level: Minimum CDD in 2 subjects including Mathematics

  • Australian Matriculation SAM/SACE International: Minimum ATAR 70 

  • Canadian Pre-University programme: Minimum of 65% in 6 subjects 

  • Foundation/Matriculation programme: Pass with minimum CGPA of 2.00

  • International Baccalaureate (IB): Minimum 24 points in 6 subjects

  • UEC: Pass with minimum 5Bs including Mathematics

  • STPM: Minimum CGPA 2.00 in 3 subjects and minimum Grade C for each subject

  • Diploma: Minimum CGPA of 2.50

Pathway to Study Architecture

This is the general pathway to study architecture after completing your SPM or IGCSE.

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Note: LAM is Lembaga Arkitek Malaysia, or known as Board of Architects Malaysia. A statutory authority established by the Malaysian government to regulate the architectural profession in the country.

Step 1: Complete STPM/UEC/Pre-university programme for 1-2 years. You can also opt to be enrolled in Diploma in Architecture  for 2.5 years.

Step 2: Once you graduate with a diploma, you can choose to go straight to the workforce, as an Assistant Architect. If you want to be a Professional Architect in Malaysia, you need to sit for LAM Part I, II and III Qualification.

Step 3: If you want to pursue an architecture degree, enrol in a 3-year degree programme. Students who obtain a fully accredited architecture will be granted an exemption from LAM Part I.

Step 4: Once you've completed your degree in architecture, you can choose to go straight to the workforce as an Assistant Architect.

Step 5: If you want to be a Professional Architect, the next step is obtaining the LAM Part II qualification, which makes you Graduate Architect. This requires an additional two years of study, somewhat akin to pursuing a Master's in Architecture.

Step 6: After you complete your LAM Part II qualification, you may progress to LAM Part III. Obtaining Part III involves practicing as an architect for a minimum of 2 years and fulfilling all project requirements outlined by LAM. With a Part III qualification, one attains the status of a Professional Architect, with and "Ar" tittle in front of your name.

Subjects​

 

In Malaysia, an architecture degree takes at least 3 years long to complete and the total anticipated costs for a 3-year architecture degree might range from RM100,000 to RM150,000. 

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The specific subjects and courses in an architecture degree can vary depending on the university and the program, but there are common foundational and specialized areas of study. Here are typical subjects that one might encounter in an architecture degree programme:

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  • Architectural Design Studio

  • Architectural History

  • Architectural History

  • Building Technology

  • Environmental Systems

  • Site Planning and Urban Design

  • Construction Management

  • Materials and Methods of Construction

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It's important to note that the structure and content of architecture programs can vary, and some subjects may be grouped differently or have different names at different universities. Additionally, programs may evolve to incorporate emerging trends and technologies in the field of architecture.

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Job Prospects with An Architecture Degree​

 

Earning a degree in interior design can open up various job opportunities in the field. The demand for interior designers exists in both residential and commercial sectors. Here are some potential job prospects for individuals with an interior design degree:

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  • Architectural Model Specialist

  • Architectural Photographer

  • Architectural Structure Specialist

  • Computer-Aided Design / 3D Visualiser

  • Interior Designer / Interior Architect

  • Resort / Hotel Architectural Conceptualiser

  • Theme Park Conceptual Architect

  • Town Planning Conceptual Architect

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Universities to Study Interior Design

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Taylor's University

Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Architecture

Intakes: February, April & September
Total Tuition Fee: RM126,734
Duration: 3 years

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