Architecture

Master of Architecture (MArch)

About the Program

Architects today operate in an increasingly complex and dynamic environment. In addition to possessing strong technical skills, the architectural profession requires strong, independent, critical thinkers, who nonetheless are comfortable acting in an increasingly collaborative industry. As issues around the nature environment increase in importance, architects must be willing and able to take on leadership roles within society. By focusing on a critical study of architectural practice, both in its contemporary forms and in its future potential, Ryerson’s program will provide students with the opportunities for intellectual growth needed to develop these leadership faculties. The program is a two-year, six-semester, studio-based course of study designed for students with a strong technical background in architecture.

Professional Accreditation

The Master of Architecture professional degree program has been formally accredited by the Canadian Architectural Certification Board.  This accreditation is effective January 1, 2010 for the maximum term allowed for initial accreditation.

For the first time in 35 years, a new professional program in architecture has been granted initial accreditation in Canada. Ryerson's master of architecture (M.Arch) program recently achieved the major milestone, granted by the Canadian Architectural Certification Board (CACB), the sole agency authorized to accredit Canadian professional degree programs in architecture.

The accreditation means graduates of the program will have a vital prerequisite for licensing as professional architects. 

"Ryerson is known for its high quality undergraduate and graduate programs that link university study to professions, professional practice and careers," said Alan Shepard, provost and vice president academic. "Accreditation for our master of architecture program enhances opportunities for our students and is a wonderful achievement for the department. Congratulations to everyone who had a hand in making it happen."

Accreditation recognizes that a program meets the established professional qualifications and educational standards of CACB. Ryerson's program earned the maximum term allowed (three years) for initial accreditation and is the 11th in Canada to receive the professional status. The Ryerson M.Arch program consists of a pre-professional undergraduate degree and a professional graduate degree, which, when earned sequentially, comprises an accredited professional education.

"We are proud that the Department of Architectural Science has met all requirements to receive initial accreditation," said Kendra Schank Smith, department chair. "This achievement speaks to how highly regarded we are and the quality and environment we're offering in our program. Graduates are receiving a top-notch education that serves as the basis to start their careers."

Accreditation involves both quality assurance and quality enhancement. All sanctioned architectural societies and institutes require a degree from an accredited professional degree program as a prerequisite for licensure for candidates educated in Canada. 

A team of CACB experts visited the Department of Architectural Science to evaluate the program, its facilities, faculty and student work. After review, CACB granted the accreditation based on the relevance and validity of the curriculum, physical resources, and the contributions made by students, faculty and staff. M.Arch graduate Mark Siemicki participated in the accreditation process as one of the students interviewed by the CACB team.

"I'm really proud of the university, the department and what we've achieved together," he said. "It's a great thing to happen to not only Ryerson but to Canadian architecture.  It's a really important milestone for a school and a new architecture program."

Ryerson's M.Arch program began in fall 2007 and is on the cutting edge of architectural issues such as sustainability, practice as a critical endeavour and architecture's role in shaping Canadian culture.