NEW high rises and iconic landmarks continue to reshape the skyline across cities and townships.
At the cost of urbanisation, however, the reality of climate change puts these constructions at risk, challenging architects to think beyond aesthetics.
As architectural ambition scales new heights, sustainability, ethics and social responsibility are no longer afterthoughts – they have become essential to every design so that structures stand the test of time.
With this responsibility in mind, Sunway University is introducing its Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Architecture.
“Architecture today must respond to far more than aesthetics.
“Our aim is to nurture architects who understand the environmental, cultural and social impact of the spaces they design, and who are equipped to create solutions that are both innovative and responsible,” said Professor Veronica, who currently serves as the Head of Department of Architecture.
Its first intake in April 2026 marks the beginning of nurturing visionary architects equipped to design with purpose, integrity and lasting impact.
A practice-led education
Sitting within the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, the design-driven programme takes a hands-on, interdisciplinary approach that blends the arts and sciences, training students to think both creatively and critically.
Through studio-based, practice-led learning, students learn by making, experimenting, investigating and designing, encouraging critique, inter-faculty collaboration and iterative design development.
Working closely with the Faculty of Engineering and Technology will give architecture students the opportunity to team up with civil engineering peers on design-build projects.
Partnering with performing arts students on the other hand, allows them to explore VR spaces and stage design.
Additionally, industry collaborations will provide students with further exposure to real-world challenges, producing graduates who can meaningfully shape the built environment grounded in human-centred design.
Two specialisation tracks
The three-year programme offers two distinct pathways tailored to different design interests.
The Experiential and Immersive Architecture track explores how design shapes the human experience, movement, perception and interaction.
Covering immersive technologies in architecture, lighting and acoustics design, the track equips students with the tools needed to shape spaces that engage the senses.
For those drawn to the unique relationship between human construction and the natural environment, the Bio-Integrated Architecture track examines how natural systems and biological principles inspire sustainable, resilient design.
Both tracks prepare students to address climate change and urban resilience through environmentally responsible and culturally sensitive solutions.
“By offering these two pathways, we allow students to explore how architecture can influence human experience as well as how it can work in harmony with nature,” Veronica added.
Career pathways, applying to the programme
The programme prepares graduates for a diverse range of pathways, including design consultant, interior designer or interior architect, Building Information Modeling (BIM) modeller, augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) immersive visualiser and more.
With strong industry collaborations and an architect-in-residence, students gain the professional foundation for a meaningful, impactful career.
Interested applicants are required to submit a portfolio containing at least five of their best architecture-related works for review to assess their design ability and creative potential.
The portfolio should include pencil and ink drawings, sketches of ongoing work, AutoCAD drawings, hand-drafted architectural drawings, 3D models and other examples of design work. All artwork should be coloured and completed.
Learn more about Sunway University’s Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Architecture programme at Sunway University’s Open Day on April 11 and 12, from 10am to 4pm.
