Architects design buildings and environments that are useful, sustainable and aesthetically pleasing. This implies an understanding of people's needs, the science and technology of building and the concepts of aesthetics.

The faculty in The Design School offer a Bachelor of Science Design program in architectural studies. In addition to developing knowledge and skills in architectural thinking, building technology, history and theory and professional practice, students are encouraged to select electives from a broad range of approved courses within the institute and across the university. These electives may be selected to devise a minor, to further professional study or to enrich the student's academic experience in some other fashion.