Architecture is integral to the quality of life and well-being of our society, and the built environment plays a vital role in our communities, our workplaces, our schools, and our homes. The OAA seeks to promote a strong awareness and appreciation of this fact among youth to ensure purposeful, resilient, and sustainable buildings in the future! 

For most, architecture is a passion, not just a career, and there are many paths to get there! While a graduate education in architecture will be necessary at some point along your path to becoming an Architect or becoming a Licensed Technologist, there are some foundational skills that will be helpful for a future in architecture, including:

• Math and physics skills
  
• Drawing, fine art, or design skills
  
• Familiarity with art and/or architectural history
  
• Creative problem-solving skills
  
• Communication, collaboration, and teamwork skills
  
• Attention to detail!

In response to growing demand for resources from those interested in learning more about architecture—or interested in pursuing the profession—the OAA has created the K –12 webpage, an evolving portal to house relevant information and resources. Learn more using the links below, or visit our Working with an Architect  page, which more information on what OAA members do.

OTHER RESOURCES 

RAIC - Becoming an Architect  -  The Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC) provides some helpful resources for those looking to learn more about becoming an architect in Canada.

K-12 Activities - American Institute of Architects (AIA) is regularly reviewing free K-12 architecture resources and activities for students and families to enjoy.

 

Image: No. 9 Imagining My Sustainable City program

Architecture-Focused Youth Programs

This is a growing list of organizations in Ontario offering programming to youth interested in architecture. This list is not exhaustive! If you have a suggestion for a group that’s missing, please reach out.

• Azrieli School of Architecture & Urbanism (Carleton University)
• Black Architects and Interior Designers Association (BAIDA)
•  Canadian Contemporary School of Art
• Department of Architectural Science (Toronto Metropolitan University)
• Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering (University of Toronto)
• Harbourfront Centre
• John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape and Design (University of Toronto)
  
• McEwen School of Architecture (Laurentian University)
• Nikibii Dawadinna Giigwag Initiative  (Collaboration project)
• No.9 – Imagining My Sustainable Community
• North Bay Society of Architects
• North York Community House
• Ontario Science Centre
• Toronto Society of Architects
•  Urban Minds
• Windsor Regional Society of Architects

High School Co-Op Placements

The OAA does not currently offer specific information about high school co-op placement options. To contact a practice in your area about high school co-op options, please see the OAA Directory and select the “Practice” option. You can search by city and postal code.

Study Architecture

In order to practise architecture in Ontario, you need formal training, beginning with post-secondary education. The following Ontario universities offer accredited programs in architecture. Check out their websites to help you get started in finding the right school for you.

Architecture Programs in Ontario

Toronto Metropolitan University – Faculty of Engineering & Architectural Science

University of Toronto – John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape, & Design

Laurentian University – McEwen School of Architecture/École d’Architecture

Carleton University – Azrieli School of Architecture & Urbanism

University of Waterloo – School of Architecture

This is not an exhaustive list! There are great schools across Canada and internationally where you can receive excellent training. If you come from outside Ontario, be sure to check out schools in your area and visit the Becoming an Architect page to learn more about the various paths to licensure.