Completion of a CACB-accredited program is the first step in the three-part process toward licensure, followed by Internship and Examination.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Accreditation, and Why Is It Important?
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 A program’s accreditation status is normally subject to periodic review and may be withdrawn by relevant professional authorities.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.
What Is the Difference Between Accreditation and Certification?
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.
Why Is Choosing an Accredited Architecture Program Important for the Path to Licensure?
Choosing an accredited architecture program is essential if you intend to pursue professional practice as an architect in Canada. Completion of an accredited program is the only educational path in Canada that leads to licensure in the field of architecture.
Accredited programs are rigorously evaluated to ensure they meet the standards required for professional competency. Graduating from such a program is a mandatory step toward becoming a licensed architect.
As a Student or Graduate, What Does It Mean If My Program Has Been Granted a Three or Six Year Term?
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.
As a Student or Graduate, What Does It Mean If My Program Has Been Placed on a Two-Year Probationary Period?
If your architecture program has been placed on a two-year probationary period, this typically means the program did not meet a specific administrative requirement. During this probationary period, the program remains fully accredited, and this status does not affect the recognition of your degree by the Canadian Architectural Certification Board (CACB).
Graduating from a program on probation will not impact your eligibility for CACB certification or your ability to pursue professional licensure. However, it is important to stay informed about any updates from your institution and the accrediting body.
Are There Any Accredited Architecture Programs Offered Fully Online?
At this time, there are no architecture programs accredited by the CACB that are offered solely online. To ensure your education meets the requirements for professional licensure, it is important to consult the official list of accredited programs.
Please note that not all Master degree programs lead to professional licensure. Some are post-professional programs, designed for individuals who already hold a professional architecture degree and are seeking advanced study. If your goal is licensure, be sure to choose a program specifically accredited for professional education.
Does the CACB Accredit Architecture Programs Outside of Canada?
No. The CACB’s mandate does not include international accreditation at this time. The accreditation process is limited to architecture programs offered within Canada.
Where Can I Find Information About the Architecture Program at an Institution I’m Interested In?
You can find information about accredited programs on our website, including program descriptions, admission requirements, and accreditation details. If you find a program that interests you, we recommend visiting the institution’s official program website to learn more about what they offer.
Can Students Participate in the Accreditation Process?
Yes. Students play an active role in the accreditation process. Each Accreditation Visiting Team includes a student member who serves as a full voting member. Student representatives are nominated by the Canadian Architecture Students Association (CASA) and selected by the CACB.
Before joining a visiting team, students must complete an online training course to prepare for their role in the review process.
If you’re interested in learning more about the accreditation process or would like to volunteer as a student representative, please contact our Accreditation Program Coordinator at accreditation@cacb.ca for more information.