Specializations are extensions of a character's class that can be unlocked and trained by a character over the course of the story.

In order to train a specialization, the character needs the proper class and must have a Specialization Point available to spend, which become available at Level 7 and 14.

Most Party Members start with one specialization, but still can learn a second one as they reach level 14.


Available specializations are determined by a character's Class.

Warrior	Berserker	Champion	Reaver	Templar
Rogue	Assassin	Bard	Duelist	Ranger
Mage	Arcane Warrior	Blood Mage	Shapeshifter	Spirit Healer

Specializations in Dragon Age: Origins are not available from the start of the game. In addition to having a free Specialization Point, the character must have found a trainer willing to teach him the specialization before a point can be spent on training it.

Specialization unlocks are persistent between games, meaning that once unlocked in your player profile, your characters can learn a specialization without having to find the trainer first. They can also be unlocked even if the player character does not have the right class to actually learn them.

Spoilers below this point

Below is a list of where to locate the trainers for each specialization.

• The Spirit Healer specialization is taught by Wynne by pursuing her personal story. Alternatively, a manual can be bought from a vendor in the Wardens Keep (DLC).

• The Arcane Warrior specialization is taught by The Presence in the Brecilian Ruins.

• The Shapeshifter specialization is taught by Morrigan if asked so. Alternatively, Master Varathorn in the Dalish Camp trains it as well.

• The Blood Mage specialization can be taught by Connor in Red Cliffe if his quest is solved in a specific way.

• The Berserker specialization can be taught by Oghren. Alternatively, a manual is available for purchase of a vendor in Denerim near the end of the game.

• The Reaver specialization is taught by the cultist Kolgrim in a temple close to the Village of Haven. Note that only completing this quest will prevent Champion from being available for training in the same playthrough.

• The Templar specialization is taught by Alistair by pursuing his personal story. Alternatively it is offered by merchant Bodahn in the party camp.

• The Assassin specialization is taught by Zevran by pursuing his personal story. Alternatively, a manual can be bought from a vendor in Denerim near the end of the game.

• The Bard specialization is taught by Leliana by pursuing her personal story. Alternatively a dwarf called Alimar in Orzammar trains it as well.

• The Duelist specialization is taught by Isabela in the The Pearl in Denerim after defeating her in a 'game of skill'.

• The Ranger specialization can be learned from a manual sold by merchant Bodahn in the party camp.

• The Champion specialization is trained by Arl Eamon in Red Cliffe upon successfully completing the 'Urn of Sacred Ashes' quest. Note that only completing this quest will prevent Reaver from being available for training in the same playthrough.

Spoilers above this point