The Internship in Architecture Program (IAP) in Canada is a structured training program designed to help architecture graduates gain the necessary practical experience and skills to become licensed architects. The program is overseen by provincial and territorial architectural associations and is a crucial step towards professional licensure.
What is the IAP Needed For?
- Professional Licensure: The IAP is a mandatory requirement for obtaining an architectural license in Canada. Completing the program demonstrates that an intern architect has acquired the necessary experience and competencies to practice architecture independently.
- Skill Development: The IAP ensures that intern architects gain hands-on experience in various aspects of architectural practice, including design, project management, construction, and professional ethics.
- Public Safety: By completing the IAP, interns contribute to maintaining high standards of practice within the profession, ensuring the safety and well-being of the public.
How to Complete the IAP?
Here are the steps to complete the Internship in Architecture Program:
1. Eligibility and Registration
- Educational Requirements: Candidates must have a professional degree in architecture from a program accredited by the Canadian Architectural Certification Board (CACB) or an equivalent qualification recognized by the provincial or territorial architectural association.
- Register with Provincial/Territorial Association: Apply to your provincial or territorial architectural association to enroll in the IAP. Each association has specific requirements and procedures, so it's important to consult their guidelines.
2. Mentorship
- Find a Mentor: Intern architects must work under the supervision of a licensed architect who acts as a mentor. The mentor provides guidance, feedback, and support throughout the internship period.
- Mentor’s Role: The mentor is responsible for overseeing the intern’s work, ensuring that they gain experience in various areas of architectural practice, and signing off on the intern’s experience records.
3. Experience Requirements
- Duration: The IAP typically requires a minimum of two to three years of full-time architectural experience.
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Categories of Experience: Interns must gain experience in a range of practice areas, including:
- Design and Construction Documents: Preparing drawings, specifications, and other documents for construction projects.
- Construction Administration: Observing and managing construction projects, ensuring compliance with design and contractual documents.
- Project Management: Planning, organizing, and managing architectural projects.
- Professional Practice: Understanding business operations, contracts, and professional ethics.
4. Experience Documentation
- Logbooks: Interns must maintain detailed logbooks documenting their work experience. These logbooks must be regularly reviewed and signed by the mentor.
- Experience Review: Periodically, the provincial or territorial association will review the intern’s logbooks to ensure that the experience requirements are being met.
5. Examinations
- Architect Registration Examination (ARE): Interns must pass the ARE, a multi-division exam administered by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) that assesses knowledge and skills in architectural practice.
- Examination for Architects in Canada (ExAC): In some provinces, the ExAC is an alternative to the ARE. It is a comprehensive exam that covers the knowledge and skills required for architectural practice in Canada.
6. Completion and Licensure
- Final Review: Once the required experience is documented and all examinations are passed, the intern submits their final documentation to the provincial or territorial architectural association for review.
- Licensure: Upon successful completion of the IAP and approval of all documentation, the intern is eligible to apply for licensure and become a registered architect.
