Athabasca University

Programme overview

Athabasca University offers a 120‑credit, four‑year online Bachelor of Science in Architecture developed in collaboration with Architecture Canada and the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC). The program provides two completion routes: a general interest/traditional pre‑professional degree and an integrated RAIC Syllabus work/study path that can lead to the RAIC Syllabus Professional Diploma in Architecture. Courses are available for enrolment at any time (virtual studios have two intakes per year) and students can proceed at their own pace; a post‑diploma route shortens completion for eligible diploma holders.

What you'll study

The curriculum centers on six core areas: technical skills, architectural history, theory, communications, professional practice, and design studios. There is a strong emphasis on environmental and community sustainability. Studio work is delivered virtually for most students; RAIC Syllabus students attend face‑to‑face studios based on location. Students following the post‑diploma route may receive a minimum of 30 transfer credits toward the degree.

Entry requirements

For general interest admission there are no formal academic prerequisites: applicants must be 16 or older and may enrol at any time. The RAIC Syllabus route carries additional entry conditions and application requirements (including letters of reference and an essay) and has application deadlines; RAIC registration is required before registering at AU for that route. The post‑diploma route requires an approved Canadian post‑secondary diploma in architecture or related credentials; diplomas older than five years are normally excluded unless current work experience is demonstrated.

Career prospects

This is a pre‑professional degree intended to prepare graduates for AU’s Graduate Diploma – Architecture or a Master of Architecture elsewhere. Graduates aiming for licensed architect status must complete further accredited education (as required), required internship hours, and professional examinations. The RAIC Syllabus pathway is structured to support certification of education by the Canadian Architectural Certification Board and involves substantial supervised work experience (9,800 hours) as part of readiness for licensure.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Tuition and fee details are provided by AU and RAIC for the respective routes; post‑diploma students may reduce study time through transferred credits. Prospective students should review AU’s tuition pages and RAIC fee information and investigate transfer credit assessments, MyCreds for transcript management, and any faculty or external scholarships that support architecture students.