Frequently Asked Questions

Six-year term: Indicates that deficiencies, if any, are minor and that a process to correct these deficiencies is clearly defined and in place. The Program is accredited for the full six-year period.

Six-year term with a “focused evaluation” at the end of three years: Indicates that significant deficiencies exist in meeting the requirements of the CACB Conditions and Terms for Accreditation; consideration of these deficiencies will form the basis of a focused evaluation. The Program is required to report on its particular deficiencies during the third year.

Three-year term: Indicates that major deficiencies are affecting the quality of the Program, but the intent to correct these deficiencies is clear and attainable. The Program is accredited for a full three-year period. If the Program receives two consecutive three-year terms of accreditation, then the Program must achieve a six-year accreditation term at the next accreditation visit. If the Program fails, it will be placed on a two-year probationary term. If the Program fails to achieve a six-year term at its subsequent accreditation visit, then its accreditation shall be revoked.

Two-year probationary term: Indicates that CACB deficiencies are severe enough to seriously question the quality of the Program and the intent or capability to correct these deficiencies is not evident. A Program on probation must show just cause for the continuation of its accreditation, and at its next scheduled review, the Program must receive at least a three-year term or accreditation will be revoked. If the two-year probationary term is following the sequence described in “six years with a focused evaluation at the end of three years,” the Program must receive at least a six-year term or its accreditation shall be revoked.

Revocation of accreditation: Indicates that insufficient progress was made during a two-year probationary term to warrant a full three-year or six-year accreditation term. Notwithstanding, the foregoing accreditation of any Program can be revoked at any time if there is evidence of substantial and persistent non-compliance with the requirements of the CACB Terms and Conditions for Accreditation.

Accreditation is a process of quality assurance through which recognition is granted by competent authorities to confirm that standards of education established by professional authorities have been met.

In Canada, the term “accreditation” is not typically used in the case of individuals; it applies to educational programs of study.

The accreditation process usually includes:

• Self-assessment by the program under review.
• Onsite visits by qualified, external reviewers from government and/or nongovernmental agencies.

Degrees, diplomas, or certificates from non-accredited programs do not have the same status as those issued by accredited programs and may not be recognized at all. A program’s accreditation status is normally subject to periodic review and may be withdrawn by relevant professional authorities.

When an educational program has accreditation status, it provides a level of confidence to students and the public that the program has met a certain level of quality and that the degree or credential offered by the program has value.

Accreditation and certification serve distinct purposes and operate under different frameworks, philosophies, and legal standings.

Accreditation refers to the formal process of evaluating and recognizing that an educational program or institution meets established quality standards. It applies to programs offered by institutions (such as universities) and ensures that the education provided aligns with the expectations of the profession or regulatory body.

Certification, on the other hand, applies to individuals. It is a recognition that a person has met specific qualifications, which typically include an educational component and/or relevant professional experience. Certification demonstrates that an individual possesses the necessary knowledge, skills, and competencies to perform in a specific profession or field.

Earning a Bachelor of Architecture degree, or an equivalent qualification, is an important first step. However, in order to be certified and eventually practice as an architect in Canada, you must complete a Master of Architecture program accredited by the CACB or obtain an equivalent professional degree internationally.

If you complete a professional degree outside of Canada, you may be eligible to apply for Academic Certification through the CACB. The certification pathway depends on where you studied and the credential you obtained. For more information, please consult the Academic Certification section of our website.

After completing your master’s degree in an accredited program, your institution will forward your information to the CACB. The CACB will then issue your Academic Certification and provide you with a certificate, which you will use to register with the provincial association of architects of your choice. Please note that your master’s degree must be fully completed before the certificate can be issued.

If you graduated some time ago and have not received your certification, you may submit an online application under the CACB-accredited degree certification route.

No. As long as you complete your program requirements while the program is accredited, you remain eligible for certification. The length of the accreditation term—whether 3 or 6 years—does not impact your status as a student or graduate. Shorter terms typically indicate that the institution must address specific areas for improvement, but these internal adjustments do not affect students’ eligibility or the recognition of their degree.