UNIVERSITY OF CALGARY · CANADA
Master of Architecture (Course-based)
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- Three-year accredited professional degreeProgram Duration
- Course-based program structureLearning Approach
- International study abroad opportunitiesGlobal Experience
- Generous scholarship programFunding Support
- Professional accreditation for licensureCareer Pathway
The University of Calgary offers a three-year, accredited, course-based Master of Architecture (MArch) degree. This program provides a comprehensive approach to design and sustainability, preparing students for leadership roles in the field. The curriculum is structured around a design studio and is taught by experienced faculty, sessional instructors, and industry professionals. The program includes opportunities for enrichment, such as Block Week courses, the Design Matters Lecture Series, and international study abroad options in Barcelona, Tokyo, and Zurich. This degree is the professional qualification required for licensure as an Architect in Canada, the United States, and the European Union. Successful completion can also lead to further academic pursuits, such as the Master of Environmental Design (MEDes) degree.
Curriculum
The MArch program includes a foundation year for applicants without a design-related undergraduate degree, followed by core courses, Block Week courses, and additional electives.
- Foundation Year
- Design Foundation
- Technology Foundation
- Graphics Foundation
- History/Theory Foundation
- Core Program (2 years)
- Design Studio
- Building Science
- Structures
- Lighting
- Architectural Theory
- Urban Design Theory
- Urban Systems
- Elective Courses
Careers
Graduates of the Master of Architecture program are well-prepared for a variety of careers in design and related fields.
- Architect
- Urban designer
- Furniture or product designer
- Historian
- Academic
- Theatre/set designer
- Video game designer
- Heritage architect
- Real estate developer
- Project/construction manager
- Civil servant
Frequently asked questions
- What is the duration of the Master of Architecture program?
- The Master of Architecture is a three-year accredited, course-based professional degree program.
- What are the application deadlines for the Master of Architecture program?
- The application deadline for September admission is January 31.
- What are the tuition fees for international students?
- International student tuition fees can be found by referring to the Graduate Calendar.
- What are the entry requirements for the Master of Architecture program?
- Applicants need a four-year undergraduate degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA in the last two years, and prerequisite coursework in Design, Technology, Graphics, and History/Theory, or admission to a Foundation Year may be considered.
- Are there scholarships available for Master of Architecture students?
- Yes, students are eligible for a generous, merit-based scholarship program with amounts that vary.
- What career paths can I pursue after completing the Master of Architecture program?
- Graduates can pursue careers as architects, urban designers, real estate developers, project managers, academics, and in fields like furniture design or heritage architecture.
Entry requirements
Four-year undergraduate degreeIdeally with experience in design, humanities, social sciences, arts, engineering, biological and/or physical sciences, including studio, laboratory, and collaborative learning experiences.
GPAMinimum of 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 point system, over the past two years of undergraduate study (minimum 20 courses or 60 units).
Foundation Year PrerequisitesDemonstrated completion of undergraduate coursework in Design, Technology, Graphics, and History/Theory equivalent to a minor in Architectural Studies or the MArch Foundation year. Applicants may be admitted to a Foundation or qualifying year if these prerequisites are not met. Assessment will be made by the admissions committee.
English Language ProficiencyRefer to Academic Calendar for accepted criteria (various options available).
No supervisor is required for this course-based program.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the Graduate Calendar for current fee information.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the Graduate Calendar for current fee information.
LivingEstimated living costs are available in the Graduate Calendar.
Refer to the Graduate Calendar for detailed information on fees, fee regulations, awards, and financial assistance.
How to apply
1. Submit Online ApplicationComplete and submit the online application form.
2. Prepare Digital Application PackageAssemble a single .PDF document containing your digital portfolio, resume/CV, architectural image paragraph, and a cover letter (including your full name). Ensure clarity with a table of contents. More details on portfolio and paragraph specifications can be found on the School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape website.
3. Upload Application PackageUpload your digital application package to the Student Centre after submitting your online application.
4. Submit Reference LettersArrange for three reference letters to be submitted, with at least two being academic.
Scholarships
Scholarship ProgramVaries
Accreditation
This is an accredited professional degree.
Frequently asked questions
What is the duration of the Master of Architecture program?
+
The Master of Architecture is a three-year accredited, course-based professional degree program.
What are the application deadlines for the Master of Architecture program?
+
The application deadline for September admission is January 31.
What are the tuition fees for international students?
+
International student tuition fees can be found by referring to the Graduate Calendar.
What are the entry requirements for the Master of Architecture program?
+
Applicants need a four-year undergraduate degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA in the last two years, and prerequisite coursework in Design, Technology, Graphics, and History/Theory, or admission to a Foundation Year may be considered.
Are there scholarships available for Master of Architecture students?
+
Yes, students are eligible for a generous, merit-based scholarship program with amounts that vary.
What career paths can I pursue after completing the Master of Architecture program?
+
Graduates can pursue careers as architects, urban designers, real estate developers, project managers, academics, and in fields like furniture design or heritage architecture.