Education · 1 of 5

The path

A college diploma, a job, then voluntary certification.

1. 1

   High school

   Grades 11 and 12

   Grade 12 English and math. Physics and technological design help. Averages in the 70s are usually enough.

2. 2

   College diploma

   2 to 3 years

   A 2-year architectural technician or 3-year architectural technology diploma. Algonquin, Sheridan, Conestoga, George Brown and Fanshawe in Ontario; BCIT (British Columbia Institute of Technology); SAIT (Southern Alberta Institute of Technology) and NAIT (Northern Alberta Institute of Technology) in Alberta.

3. 3

   First job

   Right after graduation

   Drafting in Revit at an architecture firm, a home builder or an engineering firm. Co-op terms during the diploma often turn into this job.

4. 4

   Certification

   2 years after graduation

   After about 2 years of experience, apply to OACETT (Ontario Association of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists) or your provincial body, pass a practice exam, and use the C.E.T. (certified engineering technologist) title.

5. 5

   Optional: BCIN (Building Code Identification Number)

   A few months of study

   In Ontario, pass provincial building code exams to design houses and small buildings under your own name.