No. The Canberra Accord is an agreement between architecture accreditation agencies—not countries. It affirms the substantial equivalency of the accreditation systems used by its signatory members for evaluating architectural education programs. To work in another signatory’s jurisdiction, you must meet the specific requirements outlined in that country’s local laws and regulations.
The Canberra Accord on Architectural Education
The Canberra Accord recognizes the substantial equivalency of accreditation/validation systems in architectural education of its Signatories. Substantial equivalency identifies a program/me as comparable in educational outcomes in all significant aspects, and indicates that it provides an educational experience meeting acceptable standards, even though such program/me may differ in format or method of delivery.
Signed in April 2008, the “Canberra Accord on Architectural Education: Recognition of Substantial Equivalence between Accreditation / Validation Systems in Architectural Education” is a document by accreditation / validation agencies in architectural education. The Canberra Accord is intended to facilitate the portability of educational credentials between the countries whose accreditation/validation agencies signed the Accord. It does not address matters related to professional registration or licensure.
Signatories
Signatories are the organizations certified by the Canberra Accord in various countries and regions, who accredit architectural education programs and validates their substantial equivalency.
CACB-CCCA
Canada
NAAB
USA
ANPADEH
Mexico
KAAB
Korea
HKIA
Hong Kong SAR
IEET-AAC
Chinese Taipei
JABEE
Japan
NBAA
China
SACAP
South Africa
As a Signatory of the Canberra Accord
The CACB benefits from international recognition of its accreditation process and program. This membership aligns CACB practices with global standards and ensures awareness of international best practices in architectural education.
Key benefits include:
- International Recognition: CACB-accredited programs are recognized by the Canberra Accord signatories, enhancing their reputation and credibility.
- Graduate Mobility: Canadian graduates can pursue licensing opportunities with other signatories, while graduates from signatory programs are eligible for the CACB Academic Certification Program.
- Streamlined Certification: The CACB Academic Certification process supports graduates from signatory programs, facilitating pathways like the IAP (Internship in Architecture Program).
- Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs): The CACB assists ROAC in establishing MRAs by providing the educational background of the involved parties through its Academic Certification database.
- Fostering International Student Recruitment: The Accord facilitates the recruitment of students from signatory programs into CACB-accredited programs and supports Canadian students seeking education at institutions accredited by fellow signatories.
- Global Collaboration: Engagement with other signatories fosters the exchange of best practices in accreditation and strengthens international collaboration.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Can I Find Out if My School’s Architecture Program Is Recognized by the Canberra Accord?
The Canberra Accord does not directly accredit architecture schools. Instead, it recognizes the substantial equivalency of accreditation systems used by its signatory members, along with the educational programs those systems accredit. To determine if your program is recognized, consult the list of accredited programs published on the Canberra Accord’s website. You can also check the website of the accreditation body in your country, if it is a signatory to the Accord.
If I Graduated From a Program Accredited by a Canberra Accord Signatory, Can I Work in Canada Right Away?
What Is the Benefit of Applying for CACB Academic Certification as a Graduate of a Canberra Accord Signatory Program?
If you graduated from a program accredited by a Canberra Accord signatory, your degree is considered substantially equivalent to a CACB-accredited Canadian degree.
This means your application will fall under the Accredited Degree certification category, allowing for a streamlined assessment process and eligibility for a reduced application fee.
For more information, please review the requirements, fees, and timelines.
As a Canadian Graduate From an Accredited Program, Will My Degree Be Recognized by Canberra Accord Signatories for Their Assessment Processes Toward Internship and Licensure?
Yes. As a graduate of a CACB-accredited program—which is recognized under the Canberra Accord—your degree is considered substantially equivalent by other signatory members. While each jurisdiction may have its own additional requirements, signatories are expected to facilitate the mobility of graduates among them for the purposes of internship and licensure.