Thinking About Architecture?
If you're thinking about studying architecture in university and want some advice on whether it's for you and how you might prepare, please download a Future Prospects in Architecture brochure. Here are some excerpts:
Architecture is the creative study of buildings and cities. As a subject with ancient roots, it considers how humans have been dwelling in the world for thousands of years. As a contemporary activity, it's the creative design of new buildings at the forefronts of culture, technology, and the environment.
An architect may participate in various design activities: from houses to public buildings and urban designs. Depending on an architect’s interests, he/she may focus on topics such as historical buildings, community development, or building construction. Visiting an architect’s office will introduce you to some daily activities.
A potential architect is someone who enjoys designing and is interested in buildings and cities. Architecture combines fine arts, humanities, and technologies, so well-rounded students with creative ability and a good academic record are prime candidates. To develop a well-rounded academic foundation in high school, consider taking courses in three general areas: art/music, mathematics/science (including Grade 12 math), and history/literature.
After finishing high school, an architecture student completes six years of university. Some architecture schools admit students directly from high school into a six-year program that includes both non-architectural studies (for academic breadth) and architectural studies (for academic and professional depth). Dalhousie's four-year professional architecture program (BEDS + MArch) is preceded by two years of non-architectural studies. For those first two years at university, we recommend that you choose a subject area in which you’re liable to do well, so that you develop a strong undergraduate foundation. Depending on your interests and academic strengths, this may be liberal arts, science, fine arts, engineering, computer science, etc. After two years you can choose to continue in that subject area or proceed into architecture.
To find out what comes next, see Studying Here and Looking Ahead.
For additional information about architecture, high school preparation, university programs, and architectural practice, visit Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture and Royal Architectural Institute of Canada. The Canadian Architectural Certification Board provides links to the twelve accredited programs of architecture in Canada.