Sustainable Architectural Design (Formerly Green Architecture) at Algonquin College - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-07-31

Program overview

Program Overview

Pursue a career that advances sustainability in our built environment with the one-year Sustainable Architectural Design Ontario College Graduate Certificate program. This program equips you with the practical skills and theoretical knowledge necessary to become a leader in sustainable building design. In response to climate change, you will enhance your understanding of building design, technology, and construction through various strategies aimed at reducing the carbon footprint. You will learn to design healthy, livable, and environmentally responsible buildings that align with Canadian construction methods and building codes.

Throughout the program, you will engage in Canada Green Building Council (CaGBC) courses, preparing you for the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Associate (GA) exam, a credential highly valued by employers. The program also offers opportunities to participate in design competitions, charrettes, and client projects, allowing you to apply your knowledge in real-world scenarios.

Program Structure

The Sustainable Architectural Design program is structured to provide a comprehensive learning experience over a duration of one year. The program includes:

Hands-on learning through applied research projects and field projects.
Opportunities for experiential learning that enhance work and life skills.
Participation in student design competitions and client projects.
Completion of Canada Green Building Council (CaGBC) courses.
Preparation for the LEED Green Associate (GA) exam.

Classes are conducted in the Algonquin Centre for Construction Excellence (ACCE), which is equipped with modern facilities and a living lab to bridge theory with practice. This program is ideal for students who enjoy an applied approach to learning about sustainable building design, construction, and usage.

Featured Experiences

Engagement in Canada Green Building Council (CaGBC) courses.
Preparation for the LEED Green Associate (GA) exam.
Participation in student design competitions and design charrettes.
Hands-on experience through client projects where students apply their knowledge to real-world sustainable design challenges.
Opportunities for applied research projects that tackle real-world challenges in sustainable architecture.

Career Options

Graduates of the Sustainable Architectural Design program can pursue various career paths in Canada, including:

Architect: Design and plan buildings, ensuring they are functional, safe, and sustainable.
Engineer: Work on the technical aspects of building design, focusing on structural integrity and sustainability.
Sustainable Building Consultant: Advise clients on sustainable practices and technologies in building projects.
Contractor: Oversee construction projects, ensuring they adhere to sustainable practices and building codes.
Government Official: Work in municipal, provincial, or federal offices, focusing on building regulations and sustainable development policies.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit Algonquin College official website

Last updated on 2025-07-31

Program overview

Academic Requirements

To apply for the Sustainable Architectural Design program, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Ontario College Diploma, Ontario College Advanced Diploma, Degree or equivalent in a related field, such as Architecture, Architectural Technology, or Building Engineering Technology.
Applicants are required to submit a resume and a portfolio of their Architectural work (in PDF format) which demonstrates knowledge and skills in the following four areas:
1. Architectural building design fundamentals (site planning, floor planning, massing, and working with a building program).
2. Architectural drawing skills, both by hand and using Architectural computer software such as AutoCAD and Revit Architecture.
3. Fundamental knowledge of building science, materials, technology, and systems (architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical).
4. Fundamental knowledge of local building codes and regulations.
Applicants without the required diploma or degree will be assessed individually and will be required to complete an Eligibility Package.
Eligibility package submission details can be found on the Algonquin College Additional Academic Requirements website.
Applicants with international transcripts must provide proof of the subject-specific requirements noted above and may be required to provide proof of language proficiency. Domestic applicants with international transcripts must be evaluated through the International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS) or World Education Services (WES).
Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

For international students, the following additional requirements apply:

International applicants must provide proof of the subject-specific requirements noted above.
They may also be required to provide proof of language proficiency.

For any clarification and support regarding the admission process, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

For the Sustainable Architectural Design (Formerly Green Architecture) program, the following English language proficiency tests are accepted:

EAP – English for Academic Purposes: International EAP Level 6 with a grade of B in all core courses
IELTS – International English Language Testing Service: Overall 6.5 (no band lower than 6.0)
TOEFL – Test of English as a Foreign Language: Total 88 (no score below 22)
PTE – Pearson Test of English: Minimum of 60 with no section score under 53
CAEL – Canadian Academic English Language Assessment Test: Overall Score of 70 & Writing Performance Score of 60

Please check with our team for more details.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!

Last updated on 2025-07-30

Program overview