Architecture Dalhousie University

Overview

As a professional architect, you may participate in a wide range of design activities, depending on your areas of interest and expertise including house, public building and community design; material innovation, spatial organization and urban design; or historic restoration and adaptation to new buildings and theoretical projects.

The entire six-year programme consists of two years of general studies at a recognized university, followed by two years of undergraduate study at the School of Architecture (BEDS) and two years of graduate study at the School of Architecture (MArch).

Programme options

If you have completed at least two years of university in subjects other than architecture, you may apply for admission to BEDS, the second part of the professional architecture programme. Sixty-five students are admitted each September. Priority is given to applicants with a good academic record and creative design ability. Each incoming class includes students with diverse academic backgrounds from across Canada and abroad. 

Work Integrated Learning

Dalhousie University 's Bachelor of Environmental Design Studies in Architecture programme includes two co-op work terms that provide students with practical experience in building design and responsible professional practice. The undergraduate (BEDS) work term is 12 weeks (500 hours).  

During this time, students learn about architecture through work-based studies in approved professional offices and other relevant places of work. A student typically works in an architecture office and assists with various aspects of building design: design drawing, model-making, computer drafting, construction supervision, etc. Work terms also provide opportunities for travel, and salaries help pay for a student's academic studies.

The following Architecture programme options are offered by Dalhousie University’s Faculty of Architecture. Connect with an academic advisor after you start your studies to explore options such as:

• Bachelor of Architecture (for degrees only)

• Bachelor of Architecture with Major

• Bachelor of Architecture with Honours 

• MArch Programme (enables students to pursue specializations, culminating in a graduate design thesis in Year 6.)

What you will learn

Architecture is the creative study of buildings and cities. It is a challenging, well-rounded discipline with alliances to the fine arts, humanities, and technologies. By studying architecture, students develop their artistic skill, knowledge of history and technology, social and cultural awareness, and critical imagination.

Architecture is a challenging, well-rounded discipline. By studying architecture, you will develop your artistic skill, knowledge of history and technology, social and cultural awareness, and critical imagination.

Careers

Architects work in a variety of settings including urban and regional planning, architecture, interior design, real estate, environmental policy and planning, government, non-profits, academia, green building, and certification.

Accreditation

The School’s Master of Architecture programme is fully accredited by the Canadian Architectural Certification Board (CACB) and recognized in the United States. A U.S. citizen who graduates from Dalhousie’s MArch program can become a graduate intern in the United States and complete the professional registration examinations there.