Architecture 645: Architectural Practice in Canada

Study Guide

Unit 2: The Legal Context, Part II

Commentary

Unit 2 explains the purpose of the provincial/territorial regulations or bylaws in place under the Architects Act in the province/territory of your workplace. It is important to note that while the wording of each regional Architect Act reflects specifics of its region, the regional associations have agreed on a set of standards for admission into the profession that addresses levels of education, experience, and examination. See especially CHOP 1.1.3 (p. 1) and 1.1.4 (pp. 1–2).

Unit 2 also outlines the requirements of the Canadian Architectural Licensing Authorities (CALA) for the demonstration of competency to practice architecture and admission to the profession. A thorough understanding of these methods of demonstrating competency will assist all candidates in registering as an architect. Internships are discussed in CHOP 1.1.4 (p. 3), and examinations and licensing are addressed in CHOP 1.1.4 (pp. 4–5).

Learning Outcomes

After completing Unit 2, you should be able to

  1. Apply various regulations or bylaws in your jurisdiction governing the profession and the practice of architecture.
  2. Discuss the 3 “E” requirements for applying to become an architect.
  3. With regard to maintaining competency as an architect, identify the importance of and requirements for continuing professional education and lifelong learning after you have been licensed/registered as an architect.
  4. Explain the difference between being a practice entity and a non-practicing entity in your association.
  5. Describe the purpose of and importance of maintaining professional liability insurance as a practicing architect.

Required Readings

  1. Read the following in CHOP (2009):
  2. Regulations or bylaws of the Association of Architects in the jurisdiction of your workplace (available from your local association)
  3. Read the following information offered by RAIC:
  4. Internship in Architecture Program, Third Edition, 2012 (available from provincial/territorial associations and on the RAIC homepage)

Resources

  1. Website of the Association of Architects in the jurisdiction of your workplace (The link will take you to the list of RAIC chapters. Click on the one relevant to you.)
  2. Canadian Architectural Licensing Authorities

Self-Study Questions

Work through the following self-study questions. Use the Course Discussion Forum to post comments/questions.

  1. Who determines whether professional education in architecture is acceptable and how is this done? Describe the purpose of the Canadian Architectural Licensing Authority (CALA). What is the purpose of the Canadian Architectural Certification Board (CACB)? How is the CACB organized and governed?
  2. What are the objectives of the Internship in Architecture program?
  3. What are the requirements for professional continuing education after licensure in your jurisdiction? What is the purpose and why is this important?
  4. What are the requirements for maintaining professional liability insurance in your jurisdiction?

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