The Professional Practice stream of courses is a core subject area within the architecture program and forms a key study stream supporting design studio learning and the School of Architecture and Design's integrated practice research model.

Together, the three compulsory courses develop competencies and skills outlined in the AACA competency standards for accreditation and will enable students to enter practice under the supervision of an architect and to apply for registration following completion of required practical experience. The professional practice stream also prepares students for working more broadly within an expanded field of practice and in shaping the built environment by developing an understanding of the complex systems within which the built environment is shaped, funded and procured.

The Professional Practice subject area is underpinned by the idea that professional practice and project management are tools which enable architects to turn design ideas into built outcomes. Each of the three compulsory courses is presented with case study projects and invited lectures from industry and practice with intention of highlighting the context within which architecture is practiced and innovative design projects are realised.

The first of these courses, Architecture Professional Practice 1, introduces students to the fundamental principles of working as an architect by offering an overview of the profession and practice of architecture as it currently exists in an Australian context. With a focus on project delivery, in a traditional architectural service and the functioning of a practice, the course aims to provide a knowledge base to prepare you for working in a professional setting, for registration as an architect and for further study and research. The course covers issues ranging from procuring commissions to insurance and time management, business planning and project delivery and standard form construction contracts.

The course has been designed to encourage you to explore this area of study as widely as possible, to share your explorations with each other and to create opportunities to debate and interrogate the various dimensions of design practice with peers, teaching staff and guests.

This course includes a work integrated learning experience in which your knowledge and skills will be applied and assessed in a real or simulated workplace context and where input from industry and/ or community is integral to your experience.