Pathways to tertiary study for careers in Technology, Engineering and Science

Architecture and Design Technologies

Architecture and Building Technology

CareersThere are many different careers in architecture and building technology; from architects who design buildings and architectural technicians who produce working drawings, to construction project managers and researchers who develop sustainable building materials and construction methods.

Tertiary To become a Registered Architect requires a Bachelor of Architectural Studies and a Master of Architecture (Professional). Entry into these degrees is highly competitive. Other relevant qualifications include diplomas in Architectural Draughting, Technology and Design, and certificates, diplomas and degrees in Building Technology, Construction Management and Building Science.

Recommended School Subjects

Towards a certificate/diploma: English, Design and Visual Communication, Mathematics, Digital Technologies, Construction and Mechanical Technologies, Physics.
Towards a degree: English, Design and Visual Communication, Physics, Statistics and Modelling, Mathematics with Calculus, Construction and Mechanical Technologies, Digital Technologies.

Read about on-the-job training in the Building and Construction industry.

Related Careers Structural engineer, geotechnical engineer, landscape architect, project manager, urban designer or planner, construction supervisor, quantity surveyor, building control officer.

Graphics, Design and Animation

CareersDesigners create artwork for the development, packaging and promotion of goods, services and ideas. Their work is also needed for the artwork and layout of websites and magazines, and for television programmes, advertisements and films. Computers are used for most modern design work, especially for digital animation, so having a good grasp of maths, science and technology subjects is important.

Tertiary Designers normally need a diploma or degree in a specific field of design.

Recommended School Subjects

Towards diploma level courses: English, Design and Visual Communication, Mathematics, Digital Technologies, Construction and Mechanical Technologies, Physics.
Towards degree level courses: English, Design and Visual Communication, Physics, Statistics and Modelling, Mathematics with Calculus, Construction and Mechanical Technologies, Digital Technologies.

Related Careers Design engineer, packaging printer, urban designer or planner, computer-aided design (CAD) technician, website designer, advertising art director.

People and their Pathways...

RACHEL RYAN
3D Artist/GIS Visualisation Designer, Animation Research
year 13Statistics, English, Physics, Geography, Sculpture
TertiaryBachelor of Building Science, with Honours; Master of Building Science
SARAH MACKENZIE
Architectural Graduate, Warren & Mahoney Architects
year 13Calculus, Physics, English, Painting, Design
TertiaryBachelor of Architectural Design, Bachelor of Architecture (Hons)

JUSTIN MAGON
Design Draftsman, RCR Energy Systems
year 13 English, Maths, Technology (Metalwork and Woodwork), Graphics
Tertiary Diploma in CAD Design Technology

ANITA JACKSON
CAD Technician, Redco NZ Ltd
year 13Statistics, Calculus, Graphics & Design, Chemistry, Japanese
TertiaryDiploma in Architecture, Bachelor of Engineering Technology
ALANA THORN
Architectural Graduate, Beca
year 13Statistics, Physics, Chemistry, English, Biology, Graphic Design
TertiaryBachelor of Architecture (Hons)

NICK STRACHAN
Registered Architect Associate, Athfield Architects Ltd
year 13Art Design, Geography, History, English, Graphics & Design
TertiaryBachelor of Architecture (Hons), NZRAB Registered