Study BA in Architecture in Canada

A Bachelor of Architecture course is a creative and intellectual journey. It is about exploring ideas that shape our world by designing buildings, in your spaces, like how one uses a particular space to make an ideal community. A degree holder in an Architecture program can become a brilliant problem solver by using the technical skills to design as the program teaches you to take a pile of information by using the design process. A degree holder must travel to the world to see how other people are living in other parts of the world after interacting with different people. One will be able to think out of the box. A Bachelor of Architecture is a 3-4 years degree to complete which emphasises imparting knowledge of various construction and building methods. The degree program is a mixture of theoretical and practical training and aims to impart to students the techniques of effective planning, designing and construction.

If you're interested in pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Architecture in Canada, you'll have the opportunity to specialise in various areas and delve into a wide range of subjects. Below are the specialisations available for a Bachelor of Architecture degree:

• Architectural Graphics and Elements of Design

• Communication, Behavior and Architecture

• Architectural Drawing

• Organisation of Materials in Buildings

• Architectural History

• Design and Construction

• Energy, Environment, and Buildings

• Sustainable Residential Development

• Origins of Modern Architecture

• Design for Climate Change

• Architecture and Ecology

Architecture is a combination of technology, science and arts. It embraces the design of a space. Being able to create usable areas for the users is divergent from the structural framework of the essential building for a successful architect. Here are the reasons for studying Architecture in Canada:

• The 4-5 years degree covers a diversity of subjects, which includes basics designs, professional practice, landscape design, building service, theory and practical of structures, advanced building technology and materials, architecture graphics and designs. The program includes Co-op (Internship) where students can work with architecture companies, which will give them hands-on practical experience before they complete their degree

• As cities continue to grow and develop, there's a growing need to create spaces that are not only visually appealing but also serve practical purposes

• Architects are in high demand across all 11 of Canada's provinces and highly skilled professionals can earn an average salary of 70,000+ CAD (36.37 lakhs INR) annually

• There are the top universities from where international students can get world-renowned degrees. As per QS World University Ranking 2023 by Subject, 7 of the top 200 universities for Architecture and Built Environment are in Canada

The regulation of Architecture courses in Canada falls under the responsibility of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC), a national nonprofit organisation established in 1907 to represent architects and promote the field of architecture. The RAIC is dedicated to creating a better world by empowering the Canadian architectural community and envisioning a strong community that is valued and enabled to drive positive change.

Through responsible architecture, the organisation is committed to improving the quality of life and addressing important societal issues. The RAIC has its national office in Ottawa and operates a growing federated chapter model, with current chapters and networks located in British Columbia, Alberta, and Nova Scotia. To become a certified or licensed architect, applicants must hold a Master's degree from a Canadian Architectural Certification Board (CACB) accredited program, followed by an internship and examination. Eligibility for CACB accreditation requires applicants to have completed a five-year Bachelor's degree or a Master's degree.

Canada is home to some of the world's top-ranked universities that offer Bachelor of Architecture programs. These universities provide students with a comprehensive education in the field of architecture, preparing them for successful careers as architects, architectural technicians, designers, and more. Let’s explore some of the top universities for studying Bachelor of Architecture in Canada:

For admission into a Bachelor of Architecture program in Canada, you will need to complete prerequisite courses in English, Mathematics, and Science. Additionally, some universities require you to submit a portfolio showcasing your creative interests and abilities, such as drawings or paintings of various subjects, mixed media and conceptual work like sculpture, installations, art craft and product design. Your portfolio may also include three-dimensional wall sculpture, photography, or other three-dimensional pieces of art that occupy physical space and can be viewed from all possible angles and sides. Here are the academic requirements for Canadian universities:

1. Minimum required grade in Class XII: You will need at least 70-75 %.

2. You also need to submit a portfolio, which indicates your creative interests and abilities such as drawings or paintings.

3. Two Letters of Recommendations (LOR).

4. Resume.

5. Students must have a basic knowledge of pre-calculus and Physics.

6. English language proficiency scores: A minimum of 6.5-No Bands less than 6.0 score in IELTS.

7. Certain universities may consider accepting an applicant if they have obtained a Grade 12th English score above 80/100 or upon receiving the Medium of Instructions (MOI) from their school.

The cost and duration of a Bachelor's degree in Architecture in Canada can vary depending on several factors. Here’s the average cost of studying and duration for the course:

Students can apply for various scholarships that can help pay for their tuition and other related study expenses. Here are a few scholarships for international students:

Please note: Applicants will receive a renewable amount of CAD 4,000 only if they maintain a minimum overall percentage of 80%.

Some students opt for the Bachelor of Architecture with a Co-op program to gain hands-on experience while pursuing their degree. This program offers innovative courses with practicing architects and workshops and is centered around co-op placements, which typically start in the second year of the degree. During the program, students alternate between studying and working as paid interns for architects and designers, allowing them to gain practical skills, experience, and discipline that complement their academic coursework. A Bachelor's degree with Co-op provides students with diverse job opportunities, two years of real-world experience, and the chance to create regional, national, and international connections. Through these paid internships, students also develop maturity and responsibility, which can lead to direct entry into established positions in architecture, corporations, government, and other businesses.

The average salary of a degree holder – Bachelor of Architecture is up to CAD 70,000+, with a surplus of additional job opportunities.

It is predicted that around 26000 jobs will be created within the domain of Architecture over the coming decades. The provinces of British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Ontario, and Quebec will have the maximum number of job opportunities in the coming 5-10 years. The average salary of an architect is CAD 20 per hour. The average salary all over Canada is CAD 60,000 – CAD 200,000 annually.

One can look for a wide range of job opportunities like town planners, construction managers, urban designers, architects, interior designers, landscape architecture etc.

Holders of a Bachelor of Architecture degree have numerous career opportunities available to them, such as working as an architect, architectural technician, architectural designer, architectural drafter, architectural estimating manager, architectural manager, drafting supervisor, facility provider, urban designer, building supervisor, or interior design assistant.

Studying for a Bachelor's degree in Architecture in Canada can provide you with excellent academic and practical experience in the field. It's important to research and compare programs to find the right fit for your interests and career goals. With the right program and dedication, you can gain the skills and knowledge needed to pursue a successful career in architecture. If you want to know more this course get in touch with our international education experts at IDP for proper guidance with admission process.