Architects

There are different pathways to become an architect in B.C., depending on education and experience. The most common path is to:

• Complete a Canadian Architectural Certification Board (CACB) accredited architectural degree program; or complete a non-accredited program of study in architecture that has been certified as equivalent by the CACB; or complete the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC) Syllabus Diploma in Architecture
• Complete a multi-year internship under the supervision of a registered architect
• Pass the Architectural Institute of British Columbia (AIBC)’s oral examination and complete the Examination for Architects in Canada (EXaC)
• Apply to the AIBC to become an “Architect AIBC”

Some employers may also require:

• Experience with different building types/projects
• Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification as offered by the Canada Green Building Council

If you are an architect registered outside B.C. or have previous architectural experience, there are additional pathways to become an architect in B.C. For more information on Mutual Recognition Agreements and alternative qualifications, visit the AIBC website.

Architects who are certified for that occupation by a regulator elsewhere in Canada can apply for the same certification from the regulator in B.C. Under the terms of the Canadian Free Trade Agreement (CFTA), applicants who are transferring their credentials from elsewhere in Canada will not be required to complete additional training or testing. However, the B.C. regulator may ask applicants to provide further information such as a letter of good standing, references, or criminal record check.

For those who trained outside of Canada and never received certification from any Canadian jurisdiction, a full assessment is likely needed. Most occupational regulators have a process for assessment and recognize internationally trained applicants.

Contact the Architectural Institute of British Columbia for details on how to apply for certification in B.C.

For information about labour mobility in Canada, visit www.workersmobility.ca.

View a list of Professional Regulatory Authorities in B.C.

Discover data, facts and information that have been gathered and analyzed. Learn about the characteristics of the economy and labour market in B.C.

Find out about employment types and trends by region and industry.

The B.C. Labour Market Outlook is a 10-year forecast of the expected supply and demand for labour in the province. It’s usually updated every year. The purpose is to provide British Columbians with the knowledge to make informed decisions on careers, skills training, education and hiring.

Learn about the opportunities in B.C.'s major industries, including employment trends, earning potential, locations of work and more.

The demand for architects has been steadily growing over the past several years in B.C., particularly in regions outside Metro Vancouver.

The role of architects is constantly adapting and innovating in response to updated building code requirements and societal/governmental expectations around climate change, urbanization, technology and accessibility.

New graduates receive their education from accredited schools of architecture in Canada and internationally. About one third of intern architects in B.C. are internationally educated.