Graduate Diploma in Architecture*
Admission Requirements

* This program was previously called Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Architecture (PBDA).

Applicants to the GDA program must have met the following requirements:

1. Completion of the Athabasca University Bachelor of Science in Architecture (BSc Arch) degree with a minimum grade point average of 2.3; or,
2. A baccalaureate degree in architecture from an accredited post-secondary institution as evaluated by the Program Admissions Committee, with a minimum grade point average of 2.3.

Exception: RAIC Syllabus students may be admitted to the GDA who have:

1. Successfully completed Parts 1 and 2 of the existing Syllabus with at least an overall GPA of 2.3; and
2. Fulfilled the work experience requirements of Part 2 within the Syllabus Diploma.

Transfer Credit

Some students may also request advance standing in the GDA in the form of transfer credits. Transfer credits will only be allowed from equivalent courses at the Masters level. A maximum of six transfer credits will be permitted. The final studio and the professional practice courses are all mandatory.

Non-Program Students

Students who wish to take a few courses to begin a career in architecture, or to be considered for promotion, or are simply interested in the topic and do not wish to register in the GDA, may register as non-program students. Students wishing to enrol in the GDA program as a non-program student must hold a baccalaureate degree from a recognized post-secondary education institution. All persons applying for non-program status will be required to submit confirmation of successful completion of an undergraduate degree. Applicants may be asked to submit a resumé in support of their non-program application. Students are accepted into the GDA program at the discretion of Athabasca University. Some courses may have limited enrolment. Application information can be found on the RAIC Centre for Architecture website.

Non-program students who are interested in the Design Studio courses will be required to complete the course prerequisites prior to registering within these Studios.

All materials for non-program student registration (including the application form and fees) must be completed in full and received one month prior to the course start date.

Non-program students may take up to two GDA courses in total.

English Language Proficiency

There are minimum English Language Proficiency Requirements allowed for admission to a graduate program at Athabasca University. It is the student's responsibility to ensure they meet the minimum requirements.