Architecture at Dalhousie Introduction to Architecture Visit the university's new web site for prospective architecture students: Why choose architecture at Dal? What will I learn? What can I do with this degree? A day in the life of an architecture student Why study architecture? Architecture is a challenging, well-rounded discipline. By studying architecture, students develop their artistic skill, knowledge of history and technology, social and cultural awareness, and critical imagination. Architecture is both an ancient discipline and an innovative activity. It draws one's attention to how humans have been dwelling in the world for thousands of years, as demonstrated in their buildings and cities. It also participates at the forefronts of contemporary life, alongside current developments in culture, technology, and the environment. Designing is a major part of architecture that combines academic study and creative imagination. Architectural design typically involves drawing and model-making, by hand or with a computer. At times it may also involve on-site construction with full-scale materials. A professional architect may participate in a wide range of design activities, depending on his/her areas of interest and expertise: from furnishings and house designs to public buildings and communities; from technical details and material innovation to spatial organization and urban design; and from historic restoration and adaptation to new buildings and hypothetical projects. Why study architecture at Dalhousie? Dalhousie's professional architecture program is a compact program (three years, eight months) that recognizes a student's previous undergraduate studies and leads to a master's degree. The program is fully accredited, and its integration of academic and professional experience is highly valued in the architectural field. Co-op work terms provide students with income and opportunities to live and work in Canada and abroad. The tuition fees are competitive in Canada, and American students may find them substantially lower than at comparable universities in the United States. American students can study architecture at Dalhousie and return to the United States with a recognized professional degree. The School of Architecture enjoys an international reputation, with graduates working in many places around the world. The student body is diverse and mature, and students participate in all aspects of school life. The School of Architecture occupies a prime location in the centre of Halifax, in a comfortable old building with a recent addition and new facilities. Why come to Halifax? As a historic port city on the Atlantic Ocean, Halifax has diversity and character. It's a vibrant city with a relaxed pace. Distances are walkable, and walking is enjoyable. Outside the city, the coastal towns and landscapes of Nova Scotia are famous as tourist destinations, with many recreation options available. Halifax has six universities, and architecture students may take elective courses at all of them. Dalhousie University is the largest university in Atlantic Canada, with a comprehensive range of disciplines. As the academic, political, and economic heart of the region, Halifax has a population of 350,000, with the same level of amenities as larger cities but a lower cost of living. Direct flights are available to many cities in North America and Europe.