Education · 1 of 5
The path
Two degrees, then years of supervised work, then a national exam.
- 1
High school
Grades 11 and 12
Physics, Advanced Functions, Calculus and visual arts. Some schools ask for a portfolio or an interview, so start drawing now.
- 2
Pre-professional degree
4 years, 5 with co-op
A bachelor's in architectural studies or environmental design. Waterloo, Toronto, Carleton, McGill, UBC (University of British Columbia), Manitoba, Calgary, Dalhousie, Laval, Université de Montréal, TMU (Toronto Metropolitan University, formerly Ryerson).
- 3
M.Arch (master of architecture)
2 to 3 years
The professional degree, accredited by the CACB (Canadian Architectural Certification Board). Two years if your bachelor's was in architecture, three or more if it was not.
- 4
Internship
About 3 years
Register as an intern with your provincial association and log 3,720 supervised hours across set categories in the IAP (Internship in Architecture Program), with a mentor.
- 5
Exam and licence
About 1 year
Pass the ExAC (Examination for Architects in Canada), a four-part exam held once a year. Then apply to your regulator, such as the OAA (Ontario Association of Architects).