School of Architecture
How to apply
Early applications are welcomed. Late applications will be considered if places are available.
How to apply for architecture
We accept applications until late November, but early applications get priority. We will process late applications in the order we receive them and create a waitlist if we receive more applications than there are places available.
Include these three documents in your application:
- Application (completed online)
- Cover letter
- Portfolio of work
While it may seem daunting to compile a portfolio, it's an important and essential part of the application process. We’ve included some guidance on building your portfolio, cover letter and what you can include in your submission.
Cover Letter
Help us get to know you and why you want to do this programme, what interests you about it and what you have done to give yourself the best chance of being accepted.
We want to know your career goals and anything else you think is relevant to your application. Will also need to include your curriculum vitae (resume/CV).
Portfolio requirements
You need to submit a portfolio that demonstrates your design, graphic and/or art skills equivalent to NCEA Level 3. We will assess your portfolio against these criteria: composition, concepts - ideas and content, variety and range of media, and drawing skills.
If you don't have the Design and Visual Communication (Graphics) subject as part of your NCEA curriculum, there are separate guidelines for you to work on your portfolio.
Portfolio requirements
- Photocopies or images of 6 to 12 pieces of your own creative works
- A variety of artwork, including sketches of architecture, still life and other observational drawings
- A variety of media such as painting, 2D and 3D designs, photography, sculpture and digital media. These may include hobbies and activities you have completed outside of school.
You are required to provide evidence of your skills through this mini assignment. Here's what you need to do:
- Draw a sequence of sketches of how to make your favourite food dish. Use as few words as possible while making sure the meaning and instructions are clear.
- Build a paper or cardboard model and take four photos of it. Choose one from: a house, a shed, a building, a room, a furniture piece, or a usable object; or your own choice.
- Go for a walkabout in your neighbourhood, town or city centre to observe and document the built environment. Identify at least five buildings that you find interesting. You will be photographing one of them and sketching the other four.
Requirements for photos
- Choose one building and take the following four photos of it, one front view, two building details (exterior or interior) that you find interesting, one creative view
- Provide comments on what you find interesting about it and why.
Requirements for sketches
- Choose four buildings to draw within the time limits, using different media (i.e. pencil, pen etc.). Pay attention to proportions, materials and details as you draw.
- Stick to the following time limits: one 5-minute sketch, one 15-minute sketch, and two 30-minute sketches (remember to label them).
- One drawing should be in pencil, one in pen, one in colour, and one in your own choice of mixed media. *Provide comments on what you find interesting about it and why.
Portfolio format
Digital portfolio
During your application process you will be given the chance to upload your portfolio. If you have any problems email Architecture@op.ac.nz for assistance.
Alternatively, you can also send your digital portfolio on a USB drive.
Physical format
We prefer digital portfolios but you can send a physical portfolio to us if you need to. A physical portfolio should be submitted in an A4 clear file folder or larger format if possible e.g. A3. Original works are preferred or send photographs or colour photocopies - and make sure it’s all clearly labelled with your name.
Please courier or hand-deliver your portfolio to our address below.
If you want your portfolio returned, include a self-addressed, postage-paid courier package.
Otago Polytechnic - School of Architecture
Attn: Student Administrator for Architecture,
Customer Services, Otago Polytechnic,
F Block, Forth Street, Dunedin 9016
Still at school?
If you’re still at school, the work in your portfolio can be anything you’ve completed over the past year and work you’re developing for NCEA Level 3 portfolios. We don’t need your finished NCEA board, but you can include development work for these if you like. We want to see the work you’ve done in class and the work you’ve done for yourself.
Application process
Fill in the application form and upload your cover letter and a PDF of your portfolio.
Got any questions?
Email Architecture@op.ac.nz if you have any questions about your application or portfolio.
Start here: Bachelor of Architectural Studies
Learn to harness light, space, line, form, and function to shape the built environment.
Contact us
If you want to know more about what we offer or you would like some guidance, we’re here to help. Feel free to chat to us directly about any questions you may have.
