STUDIO FIRST FAQ
What is STUDIO FIRST?
STUDIO FIRST is an intensive five-week studio in architectural design for students from various backgrounds who are considering graduate studies in architecture. The program provides a post-baccalaureate "bridge" from an undergraduate degree in any field toward entrance into a three-year accredited professional degree in architecture.
STUDIO FIRST is offered by Carleton University’s Azrieli School of Architecture & Urbanism. It is the only program of its kind in Canada.
Where and when does it take place?
Two courses will be offered in 2023.
May 16 – June 21, 2023
July 4 – August 9, 2023
The 2023 program will be entirely delivered online, however it includes an optional in-person component.
What will I get out of it?
Participants will generate portfolio material appropriate for application to a three-year Master of Architecture accredited degree program. They will immerse themselves in studio culture and determine whether architecture is the right path to follow.
Participants will:
work on three separate studio projects;
attend lectures on architectural theory and practice;
learn how to use key digital media tools central to the profession;
participate in workshops on portfolio preparation and grad school applications.
What background do I need?
Architecture is well-suited to people from diverse disciplines, from visual arts and engineering to geography and the humanities.
For example, students in the summer 2022 program represented at least 35 fields of study:
Applied Science, Architectural Conservation and Sustainability, Architectural Studies, Architectural Technology, Art History, Chemical Biology, Chemical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Commerce, Communications, Culture, Information & Technology, Dance, Education, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Environmental Design, Fine Arts, Forest Products Engineering, General Studies, Geography, Global Resource Systems, History, History and Theory of Architecture, Interdisciplinary Design, Management, Media, Information And Technoculture, Medicine, Nursing, Planning, Political Science and Economics, Psychology, Social and Transcultural Psychiatry, Social Work, Technology Management, Theatre, and Urban Planning.
How much does it cost?
$2,900 + HST (includes some studio supplies). There is a non-refundable application fee of $45.
Who can apply?
The program is open to all graduates of a bachelor's degree program from a university or equivalent, in any major, or those currently enrolled in an undergraduate degree program. Mature students and international students are also eligible to apply.
When is the application deadline?
Applications will continue to be reviewed on a rolling basis until the class is full.
What is required in the application?
Essay (350-500 words), resume, and one image of any visual work. This can be a photograph, a drawing or travel sketch, a work of graphic design, furniture etc.
Please see the STUDIO FIRST website for details.
Does this program count as a credit course at the university?
STUDIO FIRST is a non-credit course offered through the Azrieli School of Architecture & Urbanism, and not part of any degree program at Carleton University. Participants will receive a certificate of completion at the end of the program.
Can I apply to Carleton's Master of Architecture program in the same year that I register for STUDIO FIRST?
The application deadline for the fall 2023 master’s program is January 15, 2023. With some applicants who demonstrate academic strength but no design background, the school might admit them on the condition that they take STUDIO FIRST in the summer. A small number of STUDIO FIRST participants receive offers of admission for the fall semester immediately following their participation in STUDIO FIRST.
Most STUDIO FIRST participants take the time during the fall to further work on their portfolio and then apply the following year.
How do you deliver STUDIO FIRST online?
The Azrieli School of Architecture & Urbanism successfully delivered three online editions of the course.
It is modeled after the course delivered in person, using a suite of digital platforms that simulate the environments of lecture hall, pin-up walls, and studio desks.
“The work produced in this online format, by students with no previous studio experience, was extraordinary,” says former Azrieli School Director Jill Stoner.
It will provide participants with tools and support for portfolio-worthy graphic results, as well as an interactive design studio experience.
The 2023 edition includes an optional in-person component.
Who are the instructors?
Members of the Azrieli School’s teaching team, including faculty, contract instructors, and graduate students.
How do I get more information?
Explore the website.
Email studiofirst@carleton.ca
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