Oh I see, so you think Dalhousies 2+2 program would be a better route for me then right? That way I won’t need to redo an entire 4 year bachelor program like I’d have to with Ryerson. But I’d still get the chance to learn more about architecture and construction codes in a climate like Canada’s. Which is another reason why I’m seriously looking into doing the four year program at Ryerson since everything I know is more relavent to the Dubai climate and building and construction codes (which are so very similar to the Canadian ones as you’ve mentioned XD). But do you think the Dalhousie 2+2 program would suffice? And after getting my masters there hopefully I’d then be able to work as an architect correct?


Also ideally, I would’ve liked to complete my B. Arch where I am and then go for a masters degree in Canada but (as you can probably imagine) Dubai’s ridiculously expensive and I don’t even think a B.Arch degree from Dubai would be the most useful for me in the long run considering the fact that I want to move back to Canada to work.

Oh yes, and I forgot to add; the university I've been attending puts barely any emphasis on Computer Aided Design, 3D modeling or any other kind of architectural software really (...I know...). I’ve literally only been taught AutoCAD and Sketchup - so do you know if Dalhousies 2+2 program would also kind
of teach such skills from scratch or would I be better off at Ryerson?

So, a few key points. In Canada, you need a M.arch to register in the intern development program. This is where you can start accumulating experience hours in order to eventually sit for your exams. (ExACs). Only after you've completed the minimum hours and passed all 4 tests (and paid your yearly dues) can you call yourself architect in a professional sense. You can still be employable without all this, but you'll be a designer or tech, or whatever. 

Second, software is not the main focus of architecture school and in most programs, it is up to the student to take the time to learn on their own time or as part of a design studio. RYU definitively has a reputation as a more technical school while DAL has a very-much unique Atlantic canada vibe so pick your poison... But I think DAL has a stronger program plus it's shorter and you're not stuck in Toronto.

Oh I see, well that’s wonderful, I guess Dalhousie might be my winner. I just have one more question (I’m so sorry, I know I’m dragging on and on, I guess I’m more clueless than I initially thought); will it only be after I complete the ExACs, minimum hours, and all the payments that I’ll be considered a professional architect not just in Canada but elsewhere as well? Or will just the M.Arch allow me to be considered a professional architect elsewhere, but not in Canada?

In Canada, you need a March, all your hours, all your exams, and be registered in order to call yourself an architect. If you then wish to practice on your own, you will then need professional insurance and a certificate of practice for your province. Other countries may have more relaxed rules (or no rules) but I don’t know.

Oh I see, makes sense. Thank you so much for the help and extremely useful information, I truly appreciate it!

Cheers.

All 3 schools have distinctive design approaches when it comes to their undergrad curriculums. You have the potential to create good portfolios at either school but first look at the body of work produced by their students. Good portfolio work is obviously not guaranteed as it is 100% dependant on you so look at the faculty and past studio works to see what suits you best. Just note that only the design stream at carleton gives you access to the 2y M.arch. The other streams will likely require a 3y deal.

Oh yes I see, of course, at the end of the day it all comes down to the work I put into everything I do that’s a great point. I’ll definitely look into the past studio works of each of the programs as you’ve suggested, that’ll give me a better look into the quality and types of work unique to each university for sure. And oh yes, I’m aware of that, the design stream at Carleton is what I am most interested in. Alright, well I guess I’ll continue my research then and see what suits me best like you said - thanks again!! (And sorry for bombarding you with so many questions.)