Top Universities /Colleges For Masters In Architecture In Canada: Eligibility & Process

Hoping to do your Masters in architecture in Canada? We think it’s a great decision. But you must be having so many questions. Will this degree yield you good results? What are the eligibility requirements? We’ll answer your questions below.

Why Study Masters in Architecture in Canada?

According to reports, architecture jobs are going to exponentially rise in Canada over the next 10 years! And if that isn’t reason enough, you’ll be thrilled to know that an architect’s salary in Canada is handsome. This means you can definitely expect a good standard of living along with great scope of future growth.

It has been found that cities like Winnipeg, Ontario, Saskatchewan and Manitoba have high  demand for skilled architects. 

Convinced about doing your masters in architecture in Canada yet? 

7 Best Universities for Architecture in Canada

Not sure which university is right for you? SelectRight is here to help you out. 

5 Types of Courses for Masters in Architecture in Canada

1. M. Arch Architectural Design
2. The Berlage Post-master in Architecture and Urban Design
3. M. Arch in Architecture and Urbanism 
4. Master of Science in Architecture and Urbanism 
5. Master of Sciences in Architecture 

Eligibility Criteria for Application in Universities for Architecture in Canada

Before you make your decision to do your masters in universities for architecture in Canada, check if you meet the following eligibility requirements:

1. 1. Minimum percentage of grades or marks as specified by the university of choice
   2. 4-year undergraduate degree from an accredited institute
   3. Proof of proficiency in French for application to certain universities like the Universite de Montreal
   4. Scores that test English proficiency like IELTS and TOEFL 

(Read: 11 Steps to Achieving a High IELTS Score)

6. Scores in GRE tests (and other standardised tests like these)

Documents Required for Admission in Universities for Masters in Architecture in Canada

1. 2-3 letters of reference
2. Two-page resume or CV
3. Official academic mark sheets and transcripts
4. Portfolio of applicants
5. Statement of Intent

(Read: How to Write a Letter of Intent for Graduate School Admission (With Example))

5. Score sheets of standardised and English language proficiency tests

Application Process for Universities in Canada: Pointers

Here are some important points for you to keep in mind before applying for your masters in architecture in Canada:

1. Shortlisted candidates will be sent an offer letter by the university in March or April.
2. It is around this time that you must also start arranging for funds. You could also apply for scholarships if you qualify.
3. At this time, you can also start applying for education loans from banks. But don’t worry, FundRight is here for you to make the process easier!
4. You’ll also have to apply for your Student Permit with Citizenship and Immigration in Canada by May or June. It should take about a month to process this.

Visa Procedure for Applying for Masters in Canada

When it comes to applying for your Canadian study visa, you can either do it online or offline. If it’s offline, you’ll have to physically go to the visa application centre.

After submitting relevant documents, you’ll have to appear for the visa interview. Even if you’ve made the application online, you might still be required to visit the centre to submit your biometric details.

(Read: Canada visa interview questions for students: Complete Details)

Additionally and most importantly, you’ll also have to submit your proof of funds to show that you will be able to cover all costs; this, along with your English language proficiency test scores. Your study permit will be valid for the duration of the course along with an addition of 3 months. 

Also note that you may have to do a medical test.

Job Prospects After Masters in Architecture in Canada

You can rest assured knowing that programs of masters in architecture in Canada will get you placed in well-paying jobs. Median salaries usually range between CAD 60,000 to CAD 2,00,000. That would be anywhere between INR 35 lakhs to INR 1.1 crores a year!

Job positions include:

• Interior designers: Interior designers are involved in the renovation and design of internal spaces in both domestic and commercial settings. Their main task is to effectively utilise spaces with an understanding of appearance and style.
• Architects: As an architect, your main responsibility would be to design buildings, plan extensions for existing buildings and structures, and help in the restoration of old properties. You can work either on individual or redevelopment projects.
• Urban designers: Got a creative mind? Then this job is right for you. Urban designers are required to create aesthetic-looking and practical spaces that include landscapes, open spaces, and buildings. It’s a relatively new profession but has grown a lot since the last 20 years.
• Town planners: If you’re interested in this job, you’d be expected to develop and manage villages, cities, towns, and the countryside. As a town planner, your primary goal will be to balance the demands of agriculture, housing, industrial development, transport, and the environment that can enable relevant developments to take place.
• Construction managers: Keen on pursuing this profession after studying masters in architecture in Canada? Some job roles would include overseeing and managing every aspect and stage of the building process. You’ll also be expected to work with tradesmen and contractors to carry out many other necessary operations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: What is the cost of studying masters in architecture in Canada? (Apart from the tuition fee)

Answer: Pre-arrival costs –

Cost of living in Canada:

Question 2: What province is best for studying masters in architecture in Canada?

Answer: As per reports, Ontario has seen an increase in employment of architects in the last 8-10 years.

Question 3: When do applications begin in universities for architecture in Canada?

Answer: Although applications to most universities for masters begin in September, some may even start in the month of May or July.

GradRight can help you find the right university, AND help you get the right education loan.

Question 4: Do you need a Masters degree in architecture to become an architect in Canada?

Answer: Yes, a vast majority of students are required to complete their Bachelors or Masters degree in architecture to become an architect in Canada. Another way to go about being an architect is through the “apprenticeship”. This is offered through the RAIC Syllabus Program.

Question 5: What skills do you need to become an architect?

Answer: Before considering studying for a Masters in Architecture in Canada, ensure you’re interested in the subject, and possess knowledge about building and construction, thinking and reasoning skills, analytical thinking skills, design skills, and the ability to pay attention to detail.

But, Why Study In Canada?

Now you have all the information about studying masters in Canada and about the universities for architecture in Canada. But, why Canada?

Firstly, as compared to universities in the US and UK, Canadian universities have a relatively affordable tuition fee. And if you consider the return on investment, Canada is definitely an extremely viable option for every Indian.

Secondly and importantly, Canada is known for its academic excellence. Did you know that 26 of Canada’s educational institutes rank in the QS World University Rankings 2019?

In Canada, you’ll also have several research opportunities. That’s one of the main reasons Canadian education is considered to be unique. The Government in Canada offers major support to research in fields of agriculture, telecommunication, medicine, technology, and environmental science.

Additionally, Canada is culturally diverse. You’ll find people who belong to different cultures and ethnic groups. This multicultural environment promotes a peaceful way of living. What’s more, you’ll find several Indians studying here, so there could be a feel of familiarity and home.

You’ll be excited to know that in Canada, you can earn while you learn too. The special Canadian regulations enable every International student to work up to 20 hours a week during semesters. You can even work full-time during winter and summer breaks.

Some more fun facts about Canada:

1. Canada is the most educated country in the world; half of the population has college degrees!
2. Love lakes? Well, Canada has more of them than all lakes combined in the world.
3. You can play hockey on the Atlantic Ocean! It freezes sometimes and so it offers the perfect flooring to play hockey.
4. The police in Canada are so nice that they give you a “positive jacket” which is basically a positive ticket if they spot you doing something nice.
5. Did you know that Canada hosts 5 million international students every year?
6. If you visit the north-western territories in Canada, you’ll find licence plates shaped like polar bears. How cute.