Canada needs an accredited online Master of Architecture
Athabasca University (AU) is developing an online Master of Architecture program that builds on its existing Bachelor of Science in Architecture and Graduate Diploma in Architecture. This program has been approved by the Government of Alberta, and will provide 60 credits, three virtual studios, and one face-to-face studio.
This hybrid program will unlock the talent inherent in diverse communities across Canada—including rural, remote, and Indigenous communities—and provide future architects with the skills and expertise they need to make valuable contributions to Canada’s built environment from coast to coast to coast.
Without an accredited online architecture program in Canada, Canadian students are turning to U.S.-based online schools and, with those international credentials, achieving certification to work in Canada.
AU is ready to bridge this gap and provide an accredited virtual option in Canada.
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AU’s proposed Master of Architecture program is…
…future proof.
This program will prepare students for an increasingly virtual profession by offering them the option to learn from anywhere at any time.
…equitable.
AU’s architecture programs are accessible to students anywhere in Canada and around the world, including those who can’t attend a full-time program at a place-based university. …flexible.
For those working full time and/or raising a family, a flexible, self-paced structure means that schoolwork can fit into your schedule, at your pace.
A Canadian accredited, online program in architecture would provide a new and innovative approach to architectural education and remove significant barriers to underrepresented groups wishing to enter the profession.
…affordable.
Being able to stay in your own community dramatically reduces the cost of an architectural education. Plus, being able to work while you study can reduce student debt load.
…a complement to existing schools.
Our programs aren’t created to compete with location-based schools. They are purpose-built to serve students who, regardless of the reason, can’t or don’t want to attend those schools.
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Canada’s first online architecture programs at AU…
…give students hands-on experience.
Hundreds of students have benefited from AU’s Bachelor of Science in Architecture program and the Graduate Diploma of Architecture. Our programs feature virtual design studios with registered architects, web-based academic courses for independent study, unique opportunities to study abroad, and work-integrated learning.
…provide a Canadian alternative to U.S.-based online programs.
Athabasca University is the only Canadian university offering online architecture programs that help prepare students for a career in the field.
…are open to students in rural, remote, and Indigenous communities.
All major architecture schools in Canada are in urban centres, which creates barriers for anyone living in most rural, remote, and Indigenous communities. We believe all Canadians deserve the opportunity to study architecture and we’re proud to offer online, open education in this field.
“I am grateful to AU’s architecture program for laying the foundation for my journey towards my goal of becoming a licensed architect, and for providing me with the opportunity to learn from some of Canada’s best architects and mentors.”
SALAM YOUSEF
What students have said about AU’s online architecture programs
“ Without the architecture program at AU, I wouldn’t have been able to complete my master of architecture, progress in my career, and move closer to becoming an architect.”
NICOLAS LAMOUREUX
“ Without the architecture program at Athabasca University, I would not have been able to bridge the gap between my diploma in architectural technologies and the master of architecture program at the University of Calgary, in which I am currently enrolled.”
TEYA VLESSIDES
“ Thanks to the architecture program at AU I was able to work and travel while getting my degree, gaining valuable work and life experience.”
JESSICA WILLIAMS
Learn more about architecture at AU
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