Canada is home to world-renowned universities offering some of the best architecture courses in the world. The study of architecture in Canada begins with a bachelor's of architecture that can be completed in 3-4 years, after which an MA in architecture can be taken and completed in 2-3 years.

On average, students with architecture degrees from Canadian universities earn almost $92,000 and work in architectural engineering, interior design, landscape architecture, art deco, and much more. Canadian universities also provide architecture scholarships to eligible and worthy students to help fund their architecture degree.

How do I become an architect?

The first step is to obtain a Bachelor's degree in architecture or a related field from a university accredited by the Canadian Architectural Certification Board (CACB). After completing your undergraduate studies, you must complete a master's in architecture that the CACB accredits. This typically takes an additional two to three years.

Once you have completed your graduate degree in architecture, you will need to complete a practical training period known as an internship. The internship typically lasts three years and involves working under the supervision of a licensed architect. After completing your internship, you must pass the Architect Registration Examination (ARE), a national exam that tests your knowledge of architectural principles, building codes, and regulations.

Study architecture in Canada

Learn more about the best architecture universities in Canada below (QS World University Rankings 2024). If you wish to begin your application to study in Canada, arrange a free consultation today.

Top 8 Universities for Architecture in Canada

1. University of Toronto

The top-ranked university in Canada in overall terms of graduate employability, the University of Toronto is also the best when it comes to architecture courses. The Faculty of Architecture, Landscape, and Design at Toronto offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various subjects of architecture, such as landscape architecture, urban design, and visual studies.

The courses at the university enable students to gain knowledge in a wide range of architectural aspects and develop practical skills through design studio courses. There are some interdisciplinary and inter-professional collaboration opportunities in teaching and research.

• Suggested course: Honour Bachelor of Arts in Architecture
• Entry requirements: Candidates must have passed the senior secondary level of education and show evidence of English language proficiency.
• International fees: $60,510

2. University of British Columbia

UBC is among the most prestigious Canadian universities and has a top-ranking School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture under its Faculty of Applied Science. The school offers various undergraduate and graduate degrees, focusing on sustainability and integrating architecture with urban design, landscape architecture, and environmental studies.

Students at the university have opportunities to build a strong foundation in design theory and practical experience, including internships, design-build projects, and exciting study abroad programs. The school also conducts various research initiatives and other community outreach workshops, giving students a unique experience while pursuing their education.

• Suggested course: Master of Architecture
• Entry requirements: Candidates must hold a four-year degree with a B+ average and have English language proficiency.
• International fees: $78,600

3. McGill University

The School of Architecture at McGill University was established in 1896, making it one of the oldest on the continent. The school offers many undergraduate and graduate degrees in the subject and enables students to develop skills in the art and science of building design and construction.

Admissions are competitive, as the school has limited seats for the programs. The university needs to have exceptional teaching facilities and provide students with research opportunities through the Facility for Architectural Research in Media Mediation and the Laboratory for Integrated Prototyping and Hybrid Environments.

• Suggested course: Master of Architecture
• Entry requirements: Applicants holding a B.Sc in Architecture or equivalent with a CGPA of at least 3.0 on a scale of 4.0 are eligible to apply. English language proficiency is also required for non-native speakers of the language. 
• International fees: $15,576 per year

4. University of Waterloo

The School of Architecture at the University of Waterloo offers fully cooperative professional programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. It is a leader in design education and research in construction, built heritage, development, prototyping, green architecture, and computer-assisted design. The university has also been rated to have the greenest architecture curriculum in the country.

The school has an international facility in Rome, Italy, which has been operational since 1979, making it the only Canadian architecture school with such a permanent facility overseas. 

• Suggested course: Bachelor of Architectural Studies
• Entry requirements: Applicants must have passed senior secondary level with at least 70% in mathematics and physics, 75% in English, and an overall score of 80%. Selected candidates will be asked to submit a portfolio, participate in an interview, and complete an English precis-writing exercise. 
• International fees: $71,000

5. Toronto Metropolitan University

Toronto Metropolitan University is renowned for its distinguished Bachelor of Architectural Science (BArchSc) Honors program, offering a comprehensive and innovative education in architecture. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, preparing students to excel in the dynamic and evolving architectural landscape. The faculty is composed of experienced professionals and experts in the field. The BArchSc program at Toronto Metropolitan University stands as a beacon for those seeking a top-notch education in architecture within the Canadian academic landscape.

• Suggested course: Architectural Science - BArchSc (Hons)
• Entry requirements: Students must have passed senior secondary level with at least 80%. Selected candidates will be asked to submit a portfolio, participate in an interview, and complete an English precis-writing exercise. 
• International fees: $38,340 - $38,584

6. University of Alberta

The Bachelor of Design (BDes): Art & Design program at the University of Alberta is the perfect way to start your journey towards a career in architecture. Whether that means starting your own design business, applying for positions within a larger firm, or doing a full degree in Architecture, the course will set you on the right path.

• Suggested course: Bachelor of Design (BDes)

7. University of Calgary

The University of Calgary is among the top-ranked universities in Canada, offering specialized education in various disciplines. Through its School of Architecture Planning and Landscape, the university offers undergraduate and graduate degrees that provide strong foundations in architectural design, theoretical and technological aspects of planning, city innovation, and landscape architecture.

The Canadian Architectural Certification Board accredits the university's programs. The school also provides research-based postgraduate programs in environmental design. Students can access state-of-the-art facilities, including a materials library and digital fabrication labs. The curriculum, which focuses on sustainability in design and building performance, gives students a unique perspective. 

• Suggested course: Master of Architecture
• Entry requirements: Candidates must have a four-year degree from a recognized university with at least a 3.0 out of 4,0 GPA. English language proficiency is also needed for non-native speakers of the language.
• International fees: $34,000

8. University of Montreal

The University of Montreal provides an architecture degree ranked 8th in Canada.

Study Architecture in Canada

If you want to study an architecture course in Canada, arrange a free consultation with SI-Canada today.