The Graduate Diploma in Architecture is a pathway qualification for students who have already completed an undergraduate degree in a field other than architecture. Students study for 2 semesters full time to acquire foundation knowledge in design, history, construction technology, communications, and urban sustainability. After completion of the Graduate Diploma in Architecture, approved students may then continue on to the accredited Master of Architecture (SD-93017) four-semester professional program. Students may commence the program in either January or May. The Graduate Diploma is delivered in a creative studio-based environment focusing heavily upon design through hands-on and digital making with state-of-the-art tools. Project-based design studios focus upon real-world scenarios with specific attention to fundamentals of architectural design including materiality, landscape, and/or spatial atmospheres. Graduates will display foundation skills in architectural design that are creative, critical, analytical, and spatial, as well as basic historical, theoretical, climate/environmental, technical and disciplinary knowledge from core studies. Both digital and by-hand skills in drawing, physical making, and rapid prototyping are introduced in workshops, seminars, and studios.